When you’re interviewing for a job, it’s not always just about what you say, but what you do – or don’t do. Hiring managers pay attention to your verbal answers, but they’re also looking at how you deliver them. Do you look them in the eye? Do you fidget, play with your pen or fold your arms across your chest? All of these nonverbal cues end up being a part of the overall impression you make.
Here is a list of five body language blunders that turn off interviewers.
- EYE CONTACT
Two thirds of hiring managers surveyed said poor eye contact could cost you the job in an interview. Failure to look someone in the eyes sends the signal that the candidate lacks confidence. In a one-on-one interview, this is an easy problem to fix; maintain eye contact as you listen to your interviewer. But what if you’re in a group interview? “It is best to initially maintain eye contact with the person who asked the question,” “In the course of responding, the candidate should also look at other interviewers to read their nonverbal cues and keep them engaged.”
- POOR POSTURE
Once seated, resist the temptation to lean right back into your chair and make yourself overly comfortable. Slouching into the chair or leaning to one side in the interview room can be interpreted as being indifferent or too relaxed. On the other hand remaining upright with your shoulders back and being comfortable will set the tone for the interview ahead. www.iibmindia.in
- CONSTANT NODDING
Do not be in the habit of nodding and agreeing to everything the interviewer says. This shows you are more of a ‘yes’ person. At times, recruiters throw tricky questions to just gauge your yesman-ship. They don’t want a definitive answer but a probable and best one.
- HANDSHAKE MISTAKES
- too loose
- too tight
- sweaty palms
A loose handshake is typically associated with lack of interest and enthusiasm. A too tight handshake can be a sign of aggression or pushiness. Sweaty palms signal nervousness. The right handshake is done with a firm (but not vice-like) grip. The perfect handshake conveys confidence. It might sound weird, but if you’re unsure about your greeting, try it out with a friend and practice a handshake
- Speaking mistakes
- sounding apologetic
- speaking too fast
Speaking with a confident voice, in shorter sentences punctuated with breaks gives an excellent flow to any speech. Avoid talking too fast as it is hard to follow. Similarly, playing the victim, an apologetic tone of voice undermines your credibility and shows a lack of confidence.
