In the blog this week, we will focus on the importance of illustrating positive body language signalling throughout the entire interview process, especially at the opening and closure of this challenging experience.
The importance of expressing positive body language signalling
Expressing positive body language during an interview can play a major role in determining whether a graduate is hired or rejected. Remember that you are being judged on your behaviour even before you utter your first word. Finally, please refer to the previous blog post on researching the organisation and the specific job vacancy prior to reading this blog.
The process, focus, and consequences of the halo effect
The basis of the halo effect is that first and last impressions have a major influence on the way other people relate and judge us. Hiring managers tend to have a cognitive bias towards graduate candidates who behave like them and believe they will probably cooperate with them.
Once a hiring manager develops a positive attitude towards a particular candidate, their decision-making can further incline them towards liking the candidate more. Indeed, if a prospective employer views the graduate applicant as likable, they are also more inclined to rate the individual as intelligent, competent, and qualified.
Positive body language at interviews
Entering and leaving the interview confidently
Delivering an initial and closing firm handshake dependent on the culture
Making eye contact
Smiling at appropriate moments especially during the initial welcome
Sitting up straight in the chair
Refraining from crossing your arms or legs
Resisting the tendency to fidget
Controlling the temptation to touch your face or hair or play with accessories
Making positive hand gestures such as the open palm that signal honesty
Mirroring the interviewer’s behaviour such as sitting forward when they do
Listening carefully and nodding occasionally to confirm understanding
Dos and Don’ts tips at interviews
Do be graceful and use ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ throughout the interview.
Do leave short gaps before answering questions to show you are thinking about the issues.
Do vary your voice tone such as higher for positive responses and lower for the negative issues.
Do respect the cultural norms such as accepting drinks and demonstrating respect.
Don’t say you are nervous as this makes the employers uncomfortable.
Don’t repeat questions as this is irritating and implies the question was not clear.
Question 1
What behaviour is essential for candidates to avoid at the beginning of interviews?
Question 2
How can candidates identify an appropriate dress code prior to interviews?
Question 3
Why is it essential to critically review the application process and performance after every interview?
We shall explore this concluding step in the job recruitment process in the blog next week.
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