Get the right Handshake…Firstly, after entering the interviewer room, give a firm handshake with a pleasant smile. Remember, you’re going to shake with your right hand, so prepare by arranging files and other belongings on your left side. There is no need to crush the interviewer’s hand, as you’re not taking part in a wrestling match. So, just shake your hands firmly. Never cover the interviewer’s hand with the hand you're not shaking with -- it can be interpreted as a sign of domination. Say a big “NO’ for a weak handshake towards recruiters. If you’re not sure about your handshake, just practice in advance with a friend or relative to know what feels right. Lastly, don’t forget to maintain eye contact while shaking the person's hand and saying "hello".
Maintain direct Eye Contact…
Always maintain a direct eye contact with the recruiter during the interview. Keeping direct eye contact with the interviewer indicates active listening and interest. In the interview, if you have to face with more than one interviewer, then be sure to make eye contact with all of them. Address the person who asked the question, then look mostly at the person who is asking you the question, and occasionally glance aside to involve others. Don’t look upwards or down or beside you. It will give a sign of uncertainty or untrustworthy and an impression of low self-esteem. So, simply look towards the interviewer while they are speaking and nod your head to acknowledge that you are listening to them. You need to make sure that you look confident and are with positive attitude about the interview.
Dress to impress…
Make sure you wear an appropriate dress for your interview. You’re interview attire depends on the industry in which you’ll be interviewed. If you are going for an interview in hospital management or in a sports organization or in corporate companies, there is always a different dressing style for all the sectors. Some companies even maintain a dress code. So, just spend time on the internet to research about the company to determine suitable interview outfits. Your attire should attract the interviewer. Don’t go for casuals. Stick to safe corporate colors. Don’t wear too much jewellery. Keep it simple and professional. It will make you look confident and interview ready.
Control your Hand Movement…
Some people have a habit of tapping their feet or moving arms and hands all around. However, make sure that such movements do not become distracting and do not take the focus away from your face. Don’t play with your hair or nails during the interview. Stop fidgeting, so that the recruiters can concentrate on what you’re saying. Fidgeting may show your nervousness where as playing with your hair or a pen may show your disinterest towards interview. So, it’s better not to show what you feel. Remember your facial expressions should match with your words. It explains that you’re trustworthy. Be honest on what you are saying. Your honesty will reflect on your face.
Stop nodding your Head…
Don’t continue to nod your head for all the views given by the interviewer. Nodding continuously will send a message that whatever you say I’m in agreement with it. The recruiters would love to read other people’s mind at the time of interview. So, nodding the head once or twice in agreement is perfectly alright.
Don’t fold Arms...
Some people like to fold their arms. But, don’t cross your hands during the interview. It portrays that you’re defensive. Instead, leave the hands freely. It shows your personality and openness. Keep your hands in neutral state unless you start speaking. When you do speak, your gesture should be natural. Make your hand movements according to what you speak and rest them on the lap after your words. Here, don’t forget to limit your hand movements. Use them accordingly.
Have relaxed Posture…
In interview, the way you sit will also matter a lot. Just sit straight in the chair in a relaxed way where your shoulders drop naturally and your back is straight but not flexed backwards. Direct your shoulders so that you are facing the interviewer. Good posture will show the interviewer that you are prepared, professional, and confident. Do not let the interviewer see you stooped in the chair while you are waiting, so stay on your best behavior even when you think they are not watching.
Tone your Voice…
During the interview, some people speak very softly or too fast while others become hesitant and leave long gaps between words. So, just talk like to someone with whom you’re familiar with and speak in a relaxed and easy manner. When you feel nerve wracking then don’t feel shy to have glass of water and then continue your conversation with the interviewer. Talk slowly and deliberately, so that the recruiter can understand on what you’re saying.
Keep up a pleasant Smile…
Smile can really help you during the interview, because it can make you seem more friendly and likable. You can build a good rapport with this body language. A nervous smile is better than no smile at all - no one wants to employ a grouchy person who looks miserable all the time! Some interviewers may understand your nervousness and will make attempts to put you at ease. It is not necessary to smile during the entire interview because it could make you seem phony, but you should aim to smile at least once or twice during the interview. If the situation in the interview room demands to laugh, then it is perfectly acceptable. Don’t embarrass yourself by cracking jokes unnecessarily.
Finally, before Leaving…
Don’t be in a hurry to leave as soon as the interviewer has communicated about the completion of the interview. Take time to gather your belongings calmly without any rush and rise smoothly with a smile.
Lastly, don’t try to fake your body language. The interviewer may notice that you’re pretending. Make your first impression the best one and Leave the room with your head high….
“You will never get a second chance to make a first impression” – Will Rogers, an American Columnist
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