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Non-verbal communication is more important than words, because it doesn't lie. Your body language says a lot about you and your feelings. Recruiters know it... and they are on the lookout! So how can you manage your body language when stress and unpredictability are part of an interview? Discover our tips for making a good impression without even needing to speak.
Making a good first impression
Your first contact with the company happens even before the official start of the interview. The first glance, the first handshake, and even your attitude in the waiting room all influence the opinion recruiters form of you.
The very first thing to do when you walk through the door is smile. It may seem obvious, but it is essential for showing that you are open and confident. Be careful not to overdo it, your smile must not appear forced. Smiles are contagious, so if you are smiling, there is a good chance it will be reflected by the recruiter. Don’t hesitate to smile even before entering the building, it is important to approach the interview with a positive mindset.
If you are seated in a waiting room, begin by paying attention to your posture. Don’t slouch in your chair. Stay aware of your surroundings, and above all, avoid taking out your phone. Use these final moments to review what you plan to say and mentally revisit what you prepared beforehand.
Next comes the handshake, your first direct interaction with the recruiter. Aim for a firm handshake without being overly forceful. This simple gesture should convey confidence. A limp or clammy handshake may suggest a lack of self-assurance. At this stage, remember to keep smiling and maintain eye contact.
Most importantly: be natural. Don’t play a role. Be yourself and remain as relaxed as possible (within reason, of course).
Posture and attitude
Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) is often used by recruiters to pick up on what you do not explicitly say. Many of your movements, postures, and communication patterns can be interpreted through this lens. While NLP is not an exact science, your posture and attitude communicate a great deal about how you feel in the moment, which is why it is crucial to pay attention to them.
Avoid crossing your arms. Crossed arms can signal that you are closed off or defensive, and that's precisely what you want to avoid in an interview. Use your hands to support your speech, but don’t move them too abruptly or too frequently, as this may reveal nervousness. If you are seated at a table, try to keep your hands visible on the surface rather than hidden underneath.
Don’t hesitate to shift position occasionally to show that you are comfortable and not rigid. You may also adopt the mirroring technique, subtly reflecting the posture of your interviewer. Naturally, avoid copying every movement exactly; wait a few seconds before mirroring if appropriate. For instance, if the recruiter places their hands on the table, you may do the same shortly afterwards. However, if they adopt a closed posture, avoid imitating it. Instead, remain open to encourage a more positive dynamic.
For greater stability, keep your feet firmly grounded. This can help you feel more confident and slightly reduce stress.
Eye contact
Maintaining eye contact with the person or people in front of you is important, without staring excessively. Avoiding eye contact or looking into space may suggest anxiety or disengagement. People also tend to look away when being dishonest, which may raise concerns about credibility.
Direct eye contact does not mean a fixed gaze, your eyes should remain natural and dynamic. If there are multiple interviewers, alternate your attention between them, making eye contact both when speaking and when listening.
Looking at your interviewer also helps you project your voice clearly. If you lower your gaze, you may end up speaking towards the floor.
Gestures to avoid
Your movements reflect your state of mind, perhaps the most revealing aspect of an interview.
Jerky or overly rapid movements may signal nervousness. Similarly, excessive small gestures can indicate stress. Try to avoid fidgeting, scratching, or playing with your hands or objects such as pens or jewellery. Remain composed and steady, while still allowing for occasional natural movement. Above all, stay authentic. Do not force your gestures or exaggerate your behaviour. Perfection is not required, being genuine and human matters far more.
Also, remember to show interest in what the recruiter is saying. Simple cues such as nodding or allowing your facial expressions to reflect attentiveness can make a strong positive impression.
If you are unsure about your attitude, consider recording yourself answering mock interview questions. While this will not perfectly replicate a real interview situation, it can help you identify habits, gestures, or verbal tics that you may wish to refine.
Micro-expressions and involuntary reactions may sometimes reveal more than intended. For example, sudden discomfort gestures can indicate unease. Likewise, disappointment is easily read on the face, so if certain aspects of the role do not appeal to you, try not to display this too overtly.
Nicolas, Sourcing & Campus Manager at Moovijob.com, shares an anecdote: "Recently, during an interview, I asked a candidate about their language proficiency. They scratched their nose, and I immediately sensed discomfort. I then gave them a dictation exercise, which contained errors."
In summary
âś… Good habits to adopt:
- Smile
- Keep your hands visible on the table or desk
- Stay dynamic and move naturally
- Be yourself and show your personality
- Demonstrate attentiveness and interest
- Keep your feet firmly grounded
❌ Habits to avoid:
- Shifty eye contact
- Posture that is too relaxed or too rigid
- Fidgeting with jewellery, hair, pens, etc.
- Crossing your arms
- Using your phone in the waiting room
- Displaying disappointment
- A limp or clammy handshake
Further reading:
Do stress and job interviews go together?
6 interesting questions to ask recruiters during a job interview
Online job interview: how to be successful!
