When it comes to a job interview, the importance of body language should never be underestimated. These tips should help to ensure that your body is sending the appropriate messages.

Strong and Natural

The interview begins the moment you enter the room. Walk in standing tall with your head held high and keep your presentation professional but natural. Greet the recruiter with a firm handshake – not weak, but not a bone-crusher either.

Good Posture

More than likely, the interviewer will invite you to have a seat. Make use of the entire chair and avoid sitting on the edge; this will make you look nervous. Sit straight up with your back flush against the chair and look the interviewer directly in the eye.

Know How to Express Yourself

Natural movement such as hand gestures show great passion and energy on your part. However, a mellow recruiter might be turned off by too much movement. As always, you want to appear natural, but may have to tone it down a bit here.

Every interview is a learning experience. Although you can’t always predict the outcome, you can better your chances by practicing good body language and remaining calm and confident.

During a job interview, how your body reacts is just as important as how you respond verbally. Here are a few tips that will help you conquer the interview and land that job:

Sit up straight – posture is critical. Be sure that you’re sitting upright and lean slightly forward to show your interest and engagement in the interview process.

Maintain your enthusiasm – you can show your enthusiasm by giving simple nods and positive gestures here and there. After all, you’re a job candidate, not a bobblehead figure.

Keep your distance – respect the personal space of the interviewer. Anything closer than 20 inches could make them uncomfortable and serve as a distraction.

Prepare for interruptions - if the interviewer receives a phone call or someone walks in on the session, keep your cool and wait for them to finish. You never want to fidget in your seat and act
is if you’re too important for an interruption. You could extend courtesy by displaying your willingness to leave and give them a bit of privacy.

End the interview like a professional – when the interview concludes, always stand, smile and end the interview on a positive note with a firm handshake.