How to Use Body Language in an Interview (Complete Guide)

How to Use Body Language in an Interview (Complete Guide)

Why It Matters:

According to studies:

• Over 70% of communication is non-verbal. Your posture, eye contact, facial expressions, hand gestures, and tone can make or break your chances — even if your answers are correct.

BEFORE ENTERING THE INTERVIEW ROOM

Do:

• Stand straight with your shoulders back
• Keep a confident but relaxed face
• Hold your resume folder properly, not under the arm
• Knock lightly and ask: “May I come in, Sir/Madam?” with a light smile

Don’t:

• Slouch or look down
• Fidget with clothes or mobile
• Swing your arms or walk too fast/slow

AFTER ENTERING – GREET AND SIT

Do:

• Greet with a smile and say: “Good morning/afternoon Sir/Madam”
• Wait to be invited to sit
• Sit straight with your back touching the chair
• Place hands calmly on your lap or table

Don’t:

• Sit without being asked
• Put arms across chest (defensive)
• Lean too forward or too backward
• Fidget with fingers or shake your legs

DURING THE INTERVIEW – EYE CONTACT & FACIAL EXPRESSIONS

Do:

• Maintain natural eye contact (don’t stare)
• Nod slightly to show you’re listening
• Keep a neutral or light smiling face
• Show interest and energy with your expression
• If you’re asked a tough question:

1. Take 1–2 seconds, smile lightly, and then start answering confidently

Don’t:

• Look at the floor, ceiling, or window
• Over-smile or fake expressions
• Show visible nervousness on face

HAND MOVEMENTS AND POSTURE

Do:

• Use natural hand gestures when explaining something
• Keep your hands open and visible (on lap or table)
• Sit with a straight spine and relaxed shoulders
• Lean slightly forward when answering to show interest

Don’t:

• Hide hands under the table
• Crack knuckles, touch your face repeatedly
• Cross arms or fingers too tightly
• Overuse gestures — don’t look like you’re acting

TONE OF VOICE & SPEAKING STYLE

Do:

• Speak in a clear, medium-paced tone
• Use positive and polite language
• Pause between answers if needed
• Say “Thank you” and “Yes Sir/Madam” politely

Don’t:

• Speak too fast or too low
• Interrupt the interviewer
• Use casual language like “ya”, “you know”, “like”, “actually bro…”

Bonus: What Recruiters Notice in Body Language

Practice Tips:

• Do mock interviews in front of a mirror
• Record yourself and correct posture or voice issues
• Practice hand gestures when explaining your project or skills

Summary Cheat Sheet