10 Tips To Help You Maintain Positive Body Language For An Interview

If you have landed your dream job interview the stakes are high, now is not the time to be giving off signs with your body language that says you are anything but confident. Here are some tips to help you land your dream role: 

Posture. Whether you are standing or sitting always maintain a relaxed posture. Allow your shoulders to relax and keep a straight back. That will help to reinforce the concept that you feel comfortable in the surroundings you are in.  

Take up space. It is not necessary to sprawl out, but try to stand or sit with your legs somewhat apart. That will signal to other people that you feel at ease.  

Lean. When you slightly lean in when someone is talking that shows you are actively listening to them. On the other hand, when you lean away, that signals you are either hostile to the current situation or that you are disinterested.  

Arms. When you cross your arms that is a visual signal that when is happening around you is turning you off. Practice having your arms hang comfortably to the side or bring your hands together inside your lap to demonstrate that you are open to what others are saying to you.   

Hands. Speaking with your hands is one convenient way to use gestures as part of your conversation. However, don't turn it into a complete dance party. When you use your hands to emphasize certain words it can make you appear more confident and credible.  

Handshake. One of the most critical forms of nonverbal communication is the handshake. It can set the tone for your entire conversation. A weak handshake can make you seem fragile while a firm one will provide you with instant credibility. However, be careful that you don't crush the other individual's hand. A death grip can be a sign that you are trying to overcompensate for something or that you're a bully.   

Eye contact. When you are having a conversation with someone keep your head up and look at them directly in the eyes when you are talking to them and also when they are speaking to you. It isn't necessary to stare them down and make sure you look away and blink occasionally. Having good eye contact tells others that you are interested in your conversation.   

Affirmative movements. Empathy can be shown by employing simple signs of agreement like smiling or nodding your head. Those actions tell people you identify with their situation and are on their side. Laughter can even be used in appropriate situations.   

Take notes. When you take notes it tells others that you are fully engaged in your conversation and that you value what they have to say. However, it is not appropriate to take notes in all situations.  

Slow down. Take a deep breath, holding it for a few seconds, and then let it out. Make sure you focus on slowing your body movements and speech down a bit. That will make you appear to be more contemplative and confident. When you are nervous it will also help to calm you down.