When you’re fresh out of university and looking for your first big job, it’s easy to believe that you know it all – and maybe you do! Unfortunately, progressing in the world of work isn’t just a matter of qualifications. There are several hurdles to jump if you’re to step into your dream job, and the final one is, in a way, the wild card: the job interview.
Whatever you’ve proved with your CV and any preliminary tests; whatever fantastic connections your growing network has made for you; you need to make the right impression on the folk who make the decisions. And it is naïve to think you can coast by on your natural charm!
Indeed, there is a science to the way you present yourself at job interviews. The research is in: 67 per cent of employers reckon lack of eye contact can rule you out of consideration. Over a quarter of candidates fidget too much, and one in five need to beef up their handshake.
Whether you’re new to the job interview experience or you’ve chalked up a few along the way, it is worth taking time to practice with a friend before you turn up for the big day. That handshake, for example, should be firm: three good shakes (don’t overdo it, now), and don’t forget to maintain eye contact! This is likely their first impression of you, so you need to be confident, friendly, yet respectful.
Once you’re seated, make sure to sit still. There’s a reason for that fidgeting issue mentioned above: playing with your hair or hands can actually reduce your cortisol levels. Unfortunately, it plays badly to interviewers, so you’d better find another way to cope with that stress hormone!
The guide below lays out in simple terms the seven top body language sins of job applicants at interview stage – with advice on how to avoid the same mistakes. Check it out, practice before you go in, and you’ll give yourself a better shot of making the most of those new qualifications.
What body language interview mistakes have you made? Tell us in the comments below!
Photo: Flazingo Photos / Flickr
I’m a freelance writer and I love what I do. My background is in human resources but I enjoy writing about different topics, such as leadership, self improvement and the importance of work/life balance.
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