Wrong body language can send an incorrect signal, and even if you answer all the questions correctly, it may not create a positive impact. Here are nine body language job interview tips to make a good impression on an interviewer using the understanding of body language.

The Importance of Body Language in the Interview Process

Body language is a part of nonverbal communication that plays a crucial role in the interview process, as it can convey important things for each business, such as confidence, professionalism, and enthusiasm to the hiring manager.

Research has shown that body language accounts for 55% of how we are perceived, making it a critical aspect of communication during a job interview.

Namely, in the late 1960s and beginning of the 1970s, Professor Emeritus of Psychology, UCLA, Albert Mehrabian, in his research, came to interesting conclusions: There are basically three different elements in any communication that is done face-to-face.

1. Words

Spoken words account for only 7% of the message. This is related to the actual words you use, which, while important, contribute very little to the overall impression of hiring managers.

For example, when you’re explaining your experience, expertise, or overall competencies at an interview, the actual words you use contribute very little to your overall impression of hiring managers.

2. Tone of voice

The tone of your voice accounts for 38% of the message you are sending. Here, we are talking about the pitch, volume, and speed of your speech.

For instance, if you’re enthusiastic and confident, your tone of voice can make a significant difference in how your message is received.

3. Body language

Body language that includes your posture, gestures, eye contact, and facial expressions accounts for 55% of the message.

For example, if you maintain good eye contact, sit up straight, and use appropriate gestures, you can convey confidence and professionalism, which can greatly improve your overall impression.

This is called the “7%-38%-55% rule,” and it underscores the importance of non-verbal cues in communication.

As you can see, positive body language can increase your chances as a candidate for the job to get hired, while negative body language can make you appear as an uninterested or unqualified candidate. Therefore, it is essential to be mindful of your body language during the interview process.

Body Language Tips Before the Interview

Let’s start with some body language tips before the interview that will help you later when it comes time for the interview itself, regardless of whether it is a face-to-face interview or a virtual interview.

1. Prepare Yourself for Interview Success

First, focus on thoroughly researching the company for which job you will be interviewed. Note everything you find about the company, and then you can make your strategy and practice your responses to common interview questions. When you practice focus on improving the ways how you convey confidence and preparedness.

This will help you project confidence during your next job interview.

Plan your outfit and grooming carefully to make a positive impression and convey professionalism. Your appearance is a crucial part of nonverbal communication, and dressing appropriately can send the right message to hiring managers.

2. When You are in the Waiting Area…

Always maintain a good posture even when you are in the waiting area. I know that this is important, especially for first-time job seekers, and this importance can bring and convey nervousness. Your heart rate will be higher because of this nervousness and will initiate negative body language.

So, take a few deep breaths (5 seconds in and 5 seconds out) before the interview to calm your nerves and compose yourself.

When you calm down, this simple act can help you maintain steady eye contact and convey a higher level of confidence throughout the entire interview process.

Keep your chin parallel to the ground and maintain a straight back. Remember, even if you don’t meet the interviewer, there may be your potential future co-workers or the receptionist watching your every move. These practices will help you be better prepared for your next interview.

Keep your briefcase on the left of your chair while sitting down in the waiting area. This will avoid any awkwardness if you have to shake the hands of the interviewer in the reception.

Related: 29 Top Interviewing Questions for Managerial Positions

Body Language Tips During the Interview

Even though your first impression will speak for itself, body language during the interview is also important. Take a few seconds to think before you answer. Your stance also plays a big role while answering. Good posture and right facial expressions convey confidence to the interviewer. Try to maintain the following body language while answering the interviewer:

3. Make a Good First Impression

The handshake is the smallest physical contact you will have with the interviewer when your job interview starts. And this is the best way to make a good first impression.

Don’t be a limp fish handshake or a bone-crushing one. It should be a firm handshake. Smile and make eye contact.

Also, smile naturally and use open and relaxed gestures to show enthusiasm and genuine interest.

You can also lean slightly forward to show engagement and attention during the conversation. These will help you show more confidence and project a positive impression, which is important for a job interview.

4. Facial Expressions and Eye Contact in Job Interview

Your facial expressions and eye contact are also nonverbal cues that show correct body language and can help you look more confident, enthusiastic, and interested in the role.

A good expression can impress the hiring manager, but a bad expression can make you look uninterested or not qualified for the job you want.

For example you can use a smile to show you’re happy about the interview or a raised eyebrow to show curiosity. These small gestures can make you look more approachable and engaged.

5. Eye Contact

Another element of nonverbal cues in a job interview is eye contact.

When you avoid eye contact it makes you look distant and untrustworthy. It may also indicate that you are fabricating your answers and being dishonest.

So, try to balance your eye contact. Ensure you make eye contact when the interviewer asks questions and while answering them. It is almost like chatting with your friend. Follow that kind of eye contact with the interviewer.

These tips regarding eye contact are equally important during a virtual interview, where nonverbal cues can significantly influence first impressions.

Related: Top Leadership Skills to Improve Your Leadership Resume

6. Posture and Sitting Style

Never slump while sitting in an interview; always sit up straight. Always maintain a straight back. Try to lean forward slightly to show that you are interested. Don’t recline back because it will seem you are disinterested and bored.

Don’t place your arms or keep them crossed on your lap. It shows that you are nervous and defensive. Your goal should be to show confidence instead of indicating nervousness.

Tip: if you have different seating options, such as cushioned chairs, couches, or a straight-backed chair, always go for the straight chair. This will allow you to sit straight instead of slouching.

Also, don’t cross your legs while sitting. If you are in for a long interview, you may have to cross them later. That is why it is better not to cross your legs at the start of the interview.

If you have a habit of tapping your legs, twirling your hair, cracking your knuckles, or biting your nails, stop them immediately once you enter the interview room. These look very unprofessional and make you look nervous. Experts consider them as impolite behavior.

7. Active Listening and Engagement in Job Interview

Active listening and engagement are critical components of the whole process.

Use active listening skills, such as nodding and taking notes, to show engagement and interest. When you take notes during questions from the interviewer, you show that you know how to listen and focus on what is important.

For example, if you are interviewing for a marketing position, jot down key points about the company’s recent campaigns or upcoming projects. In such a way, you demonstrate your attentiveness and readiness to contribute to the team.

It is also essential to avoid possible distractions, such as checking your phone or looking around the room, and instead focus on the hiring manager and the conversation. This shows that you are genuinely interested in the opportunity and the company culture.

Related: What To Look At Applicant’s Resume

Interview Success and Follow-up

8. Say Thank You

Even though this isn’t part of body language, I still highly recommend after your interview is done and you get home, now is the time to send a thank you note or email to the hiring manager.

This simple gesture shows you appreciate the opportunity and reiterates your interest in the position.

You can mention specific parts of the interview that impressed you and how they align with your skills and experience.

It’s a simple way to leave a positive impression and keep you top of mind.

9. Follow Up

Following up with the interviewer is also part of the after-interview process.

You can reach out to ask about your application.

This shows you’re really interested in the role and keeps you informed of any decisions. It’s a proactive step that puts you ahead of other candidates.