Controlling body language in an interview can enhance a persons chances of a successful hire. Non-verbal signals are a part of every day life and we all subconsciously interpret these signals. Many individuals can identify the emotions and attitudes attached to the slouching teenager, the happy or sad person, or the introvert or extravert. A slouch, smile, frown or hand movements can make the difference in how a person is perceived. How people can use body language to gain an advantage during an interview?

Walk with Confidence

Fashion models often seem confident. They even seem confident in their underwear! These models train to project confidence and youth through their body language. Presenting yourself in a confident manor is crucial in any interview or presentation; and using a confident walk is a stubble way of distinguishing yourself.

How do you walk? To find out use a full-length mirror and walk towards it or have a friend videotape you in your chosen interviewing attire. How is your posture? Do you slouch? Good walking posture is essential to presenting a confident image. As you walk, drop your shoulders away from your ears and move your shoulder blades back as if to touch them together. This will stop slouching and lift your rib cage naturally.

Next, watch your stride. Are you dragging your feet? Models learn to walk heel to toe. This naturally lengthens the stride and gives you a more purposeful walk. Now it might not feel natural at first because you have altered your stride and posture, nonetheless, as you practice walking a more purposeful and confident stride will develop. As a bonus exercise, try putting a book on your head to keep you head up and shoulders down.

Walking with confidence is only a single part of projecting an image of confidence. Sitting down is the next step in projecting that image. How do you sit? Does your back touch the back of the chair? Are you leaning back to do that? How are you crossing your legs? All these factors further a persons personal image. Try video taping yourself as you sit in various chairs. See how your clothes drape. Do you look sloppy after you sit? Are you slouching? All these factors effect how your personal image.

Sitting with Confidence

When you sit down in a chair think of the letter L, your seat is at the bottom of the L and your back is the line moving up. In when sitting in the L shaped position, your feet should be on the floor and your back is positioned either at the directly at the back or parallel to the chairs back. The positioning of your back depends on your height.

Also remember do not cross your legs at the knee, if you must cross your legs cross at the ankles. It is better for the health of your legs and it is a much more polished way of sitting for both men and women.

Using Your Hands to Your Best Advantage

Many of us talk with our hands, but awareness of how you use your hands is important. If you are not sure how you use your hands, have a friend video tape your conversation. Using your hands, to highlight thoughts and ideas is a great tool but moving them about constantly can be a distraction. Remember less is better. If you move, your hands too much try placing them in your lap, on your knees or on the arms of your chair.

We all give off signals that can effect how people perceive you. Why not work on your body language to have it work to your favor. Try it for a week and see if people notice. Remember, as with any new skill practice does make perfect.