Interviewing Tips: 8 Ways to Make the Right Impression

Even the most experienced, out-going and qualified candidates get nervous when it comes to the dreaded job interview. It’s not just important to say the right things, what your body language conveys can be just as important. Here are eight body-language tips from CareerBliss to improve your chances of landing the job. (© RazvanPhotography- Radu Razvan 2008)

Make Eye Contact Making good eye contact shows you are focused and paying attention to the interviewer. And no matter how off-the-wall a question or comment may be, avoid rolling your eyes.

Extend a Firm Handshake A firm, but not aggressive, handshake conveys confidence. Remember it isn’t a strength contest, but your hand shouldn’t feel like a dead fish in the interviewer’s hand.

Hands Off Don’t grasp onto anything like a bag or suitcase during the interview. Having your hand free to convey an open and honest body language will make you appear more competent and interested in the interview. (Reuters)

No Crisscrossing Cross your arms during the interview can come off as a sign of weakness. Be sure to keep your arms at your side. (Reuters)

Don’t Show Any Nerves It’s best to keep nervous habits like playing with your hair, adjusting your tie or fidgeting to a minimum. It is not only distracting to the interviewer, but it makes you seem anxious.

Be a Mirror Mirroring the body language of interviewers can help build a closer connection with them and make you more memorable. (Reuters)

Keep the Nodding Under Control While nodding in agreement a couple times is acceptable, don’t overdo it. (Reuters)

Diffuse any Tension Take the initiative to ease any potential strain that tends to exist during an interview, it will make the process easier for both you and the interviewer.