Body Language during Interview

"Maybe it was something I said." That's a comment you frequently hear from job seekers who didn't get the job they wanted.

While strong verbal communication skills are essential during any employment negotiation, there's also something else to consider: Maybe it wasn't something you said, it was something you didn't say.

When applying for a job, you try to convince the interviewer you're the right person for it, and most people translate that into relating what they've done or what they can do for the company. That's important, but you need nonverbal communication to emphasize it. It is estimated that nonverbal communication like body language, facial expression, tone of voice, rate of speech etc account for as much as 50 percent of the impact your communication makes.

Says Kavya, the HR head of CRC Systems, "A candidate's body language is what makes me understand if he is sure or not about what he says. Body language portrays personality."

Managing Director of Bouruka Power Corporation, S Chandrashekar agrees. "I would expect a candidate to be confident. Well yes his qualification and knowledge are the first priorities, but then it is the body language which makes me understand if he has all those qualities."

Worried about what your interviewer will make of your body language? Here are some tips:

• Maintain eye contact. Look directly at the interviewer. It shows you're not intimidated and that you're trustworthy. If you sit with eyes downcast and face turned away it shows that you are not interested in what he is talking.
  
  
• Don't keep your arms and legs crossed. Crossed arms indicate that the person is in a defensive and reserved mood. Crossed arms and legs show that the person is very reserved and suspicious.
  
  
• Conversely, open arms and hands mean an open and receptive frame of mind.
  
  
• Keep your body relaxed, and turned towards the person you are speaking with to show interest. Keeping your body turned away shows disinterest. Sitting with your body and feet pointing towards a door indicates that you want to end the conservation and leave the room.
  
  
• Avoid rubbing or touching your nose when answering a question it could be taken to mean you are not telling the complete truth.
  
  
• Avoid shaking or jiggling your legs or body, it could indicate that you are nervous and uncomfortable.
  
  

And what should you make of the interviewer's body language?

• If he is standing before you with his hands inside the pockets it means he is not sure or is suspicious.
  
  
• If he is standing before you with his hands on his hips it means he is receptive and ready to help you out.
  
  
• If he rubs the back of his head or is rubbing or touching the back of his neck it means he is not really finding the conversation interesting.
  
  
• If he is holding or stroking his chin with the palm of one hand, it means he is in an evaluating position and possibly being critical.
  
  
• If he leans back in his chair with both hands clasped behind his head he is in an analytical mood, but it is also a gesture of superiority.
  
  
• If he maintains good eye contact and he smiles in a relaxed and happy way he is definitely receptive to you.