You’ve polished your CV, researched the company, and prepared answers to common interview questions. But there’s one crucial element that many candidates overlook: job interview body language. The Olinio recruiting specialists know that up to 55% of communication is non-verbal, which means your physical presence speaks volumes before you even say a word.
Mastering body language in interviews can be the difference between landing your dream role and missing out. In this article, we share the essential do’s and don’ts that will help you express confidence and professionalism during your next interview.
The Do’s: How to Show Confidence Through Body Language
Maintain Appropriate Eye Contact
Strong eye contact demonstrates engagement and honesty. Aim to maintain eye contact 60-70% of the time during conversation. This shows you’re actively listening and confident in what you’re saying. In panel interviews, distribute your gaze among all interviewers, giving each person attention when they speak or when you’re addressing a point relevant to their role.
Perfect Your Handshake
Your handshake sets the tone for the entire interview. Here’s how to get it right:
- Aim for a firm (but not crushing) grip that conveys confidence and professional presence
- Match the interviewer’s pressure and duration, typically two to three pumps
- Always stand when shaking hands
- If your palms tend to sweat, discreetly wipe them before entering the room
Sit with Purpose
Posture is a powerful component of job interview tips that often gets overlooked. Here’s the ideal position:
- Sit upright with your back straight and shoulders relaxed
- Lean slightly forward to show engagement and interest
- Keep both feet flat on the floor to maintain stability and balance
This open posture suggests you’re approachable and enthusiastic about the opportunity.
Use Hand Gestures Naturally
Controlled hand gestures emphasise key points and make you appear more articulate and passionate. Keep these tips in mind:
- Gestures should complement your words, not distract from them
- Keep movements within the “gesture zone”, roughly between your shoulders and waist
- Natural movement suggests authenticity and comfort in your skin
Smile Genuinely
A warm, authentic smile creates rapport and breaks the ice in the conversation. Smile when greeting your interviewer, when discussing topics you’re passionate about, and when appropriate during the conversation. Genuine smiles engage your entire face, including your eyes, creating what’s known as a Duchenne smile.
The Don’ts: Body Language Mistakes to Avoid
Crossing Your Arms
This defensive posture creates a barrier between you and the interviewer, suggesting you’re closed off, uncomfortable, or disagreeable. Even if you’re simply cold or it feels natural, resist the urge. Instead, rest your hands on your lap or the armrests, keeping your body language open and receptive.
Fidgeting and Excessive Movement
These distracting movements pull the interviewer’s attention away from your qualifications:
- Playing with your hair
- Tapping your feet
- Clicking pens
- Touching your face repeatedly
If you need to occupy your hands, hold a portfolio or notepad, but avoid manipulating objects nervously.
Slouching or Leaning Back Too Far
Poor posture suggests disinterest or lack of energy. Keep these points in mind:
- Slouching makes you appear unprofessional and can even affect your voice projection
- Leaning too far back can seem overly casual or even arrogant
- Find the balance that conveys professional presence without appearing stiff
Invading Personal Space
Respect the interviewer’s personal bubble. Sitting too close or leaning in excessively can make people uncomfortable. Maintain approximately one to one and a half metres of distance during conversation. This shows social awareness and professionalism.
Looking at Your Phone or Watch
Even a quick glance at your phone or watch suggests you’d rather be elsewhere. This is one of the most damaging body language mistakes in interviews. Keep your phone completely silent and out of sight. Your attention should be fully devoted to the conversation at hand.
Bringing It All Together
Mastering job interview body language takes practice, but the investment pays dividends. Your non-verbal communication should align with your verbal responses, creating a cohesive, confident professional presence. Before your next interview, practice these techniques with a friend or in front of a mirror until they feel natural.
Remember, these job interview tips are tools to help you present your authentic, professional self – not to create a false persona. The goal is to let your qualifications shine while your body language reinforces your competence and enthusiasm.
Ready to Put These Skills to Use? Talk to Olinio!
Now that you’re equipped with the body language strategies that set successful candidates apart, it’s time to put them into practice. At Olinio, we connect talented professionals with opportunities where they can truly thrive. Our expert recruiters don’t just match CVs to job descriptions – we partner with you to find roles that align with your career aspirations and values.
Let Olinio help you find your ideal job. Contact us today to discuss your next career move and access exclusive opportunities with leading employers. Your dream role is waiting – let’s make sure you’re ready to nail that interview.