Body Language in Interviews: What You Say Before You Speak
By Zyctra Team · · 3 min read
Interviewers form a first impression within minutes, much of it from how you sit, look and sound. You do not need to perform; you just need to remove the habits that send the wrong signal.
Arriving and greeting
- Arrive ten minutes early and use the wait to breathe slowly.
- Stand up when you are greeted, smile, and use the interviewer's name.
- Follow local custom for greetings — a handshake, a nod or a bow.
Posture
- Sit back in the chair, upright, leaning very slightly forward.
- Keep both feet on the floor; crossed arms read as defensive.
Eye contact
Look at the person speaking, and hold eye contact for a few seconds at a time while you answer. On video, look at the camera when you speak, not at the face on the screen.
Hands
Natural gestures make you look engaged. Keep them between your waist and shoulders, and put the pen down when you are not writing.
Voice
- Slow down — nerves make everyone speak faster.
- Pause before answering a hard question. Silence reads as thoughtfulness.
- End your sentences on a firm note, not a rising question.
Practise it
Record yourself answering three questions on your phone, or use Voice Mode in Zyctra Interview Practice to get used to speaking your answers aloud.
Topics: Interview Tips, Personal Branding