Although our words are important, over 50% of our communication is non-verbal.
Therefore, making a great impression on future employers involves developing non-verbal as well as verbal communication. Below are some ways you can ensure that you are projecting positive non-verbal communication from your initial entrance to the farewell handshake.
First & foremost remember to SMILE!
Smiling is the most important non-verbal communication tool that so many people fail to use. No one wants to hire someone who isn’t personable. Smiling makes you appear more personable and although it may not come naturally when you are in a formal interaction it is important to make a conscious effort to smile to show that you are happy to be there.
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Your Entrance
First impressions begin the moment you walk into the room. Before you have had a chance to engage with the potential employer they have already begun to form an impression of you. You should appear calm, confident and fully prepared for the interview. Ensure that you have an upright posture and are not slouching and be aware of the environment around you.
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The Handshake
The handshake is an important display of non-verbal communication and you want to get it right. Simply give a firm handshake while making eye contact. This is your way of demonstrating that you respect their authority. Avoid covering their hand with your non-shaking hand as this can be interpreted as an attempt to dominate the interaction.
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Eye Contact
Making eye contact shows the person you are interacting with that you are listening and engaged in the situation. Aim to make eye contact for a couple of seconds at a time when you are listening and speaking to an individual. Too much eye contact can make someone feel uncomfortable so take the time to look away when you are thinking of a response to someone’s statement or processing information.
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Use Your Hands
This helps you appear more confident in your communication, is a great way to prevent negative hand behaviours. Firstly, hiding your hands can be seen as distrustful behaviour so make sure that your hands are in view as much as possible and display your palms as this is a demonstration of openness. Secondly, fidgeting with a pen or your hair can be distracting from the conversation so be aware of any bad habits you possess.
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Body Language
Whether sitting or standing during an interaction it is important to ensure that you are non-verbally conveying a positive message. When sitting, sit up straight and lean forward as this demonstrates engagement in the conversation. Avoid crossing your arms as this makes you appear defensive and withdrawn from the interaction. When standing, make sure your feet are slightly apart, and are pointed in the direction of the individual you are communicating with.
It’s important to be aware of your own habits and how they may be misinterpreted during an interaction. Being more aware of non-verbal messages allows you to control your non-verbal communication and make it consistently positive.
Written by: Joe Danter, Junior Researcher at Futureboard.