Studies show that we begin making assumptions about other people within the first thirty seconds of meeting them. Since thirty seconds is a pretty short period of time, that means most of these assumptions are based completely on body language. You could be an articulate, warm, funny, genuine, and intelligent person. But if your body language gives off a negative first impression, you might as well just not even show up to a job interview.

Here are the five most common ways to improve your body language:

Walk the walk

From the moment you walk into a room, your prospective employer is sizing you up. Practice walking with confidence by pulling your shoulders back, elongating your neck, and keeping a steady, even stride.

Try face contact instead of eye contact

We’ve all heard how important it is to make eye contact during a job interview. But many experts claim that it’s better to alternate between looking at different parts of someone’s face rather than holding steady eye contact the entire time. This shows that you’re engaged, but keeps you from appearing overly intense.

A firm handshake

A weak handshake gives the impression that you aren’t serious or lack confidence. Be sure to give your interviewer a firm, assertive handshake.

Straight posture

Sitting all the way back in your seat and keeping your back straight is the best stance to take in a job interview.

No fidgeting

Fidgeting is distracting. Even worse, in an interview setting it sometimes suggests that you’re nervous or bored. If you’re prone to fidgeting or foot-tapping, make a conscious effort to reduce this behaviour when you’re interviewing for a job.

Looking to improve your job interview skills? Or perhaps you’re looking for a new job? If so, contact HCR today. We are a leading GTA and Southwestern Ontario employment agency with offices in Toronto, Newmarket, Milton, and St. Thomas.