Non Verbal Communication - Non Verbal Communication - Interview Skills - Business English - Build Your Communication Skills - 8 Tips For Non Verbal Communication In Interviews

Non-verbal communication matters as soon as you walk in the office door. If you come to an interview reeking of cigarette smoke or chewing gum, you will already have one strike against you. We will teach you the aspects of non-verbal communication which you can use to crack job interviews. 8 TIPS FOR NON-VERBAL COMMUNICATION IN INTERVIEWS

Almost all of us have faced or will face interviews at least once in our life. You might think that if you have the best answers to the interview questions, you will get the job. But, that isn't necessarily the case. A big component for the success of your answer is actually non-verbal communication. 

This includes your body language and what is known as paralanguage - the elements of the speech besides the words such as your intonation, speaking speed, pauses, sighs and facial expressions. Non-verbal communication also includes your attire and grooming. 

The Importance of non-verbal communication 

Non-verbal communication matters as soon as you walk in the office door. If you come to an interview reeking of cigarette smoke or chewing gum, you will already have one strike against you. 

Not being dressed appropriately or having scuffed shoes will give you a second strike. Talking on your cell phone or listening to music while waiting to be called for the interview may be your final strike. 

How to practice non-verbal communication 

Remember that the image the interviewer has of you when they first meet you is the one that is going to last. If you are slouched, sloppy or messy, it won't matter how you answer the interview questions; you will probably end up not getting the job. 

When practising for an interview, work on your non-verbal communication and your other interview skills. It could be what clinches the job offer for you. 

We have listed a few tips of non-verbal communication which you can follow during the interview -

  • Make eye contact with the interviewer for a few seconds at a time. 
  • Smile and nod at appropriate times when the interviewer is talking, but don't overdo it. Don't laugh unless the interview does first. 
  • Be polite and keep an even tone to your speech, don't be too loud or too quiet.
  • Don't slouch.
  • Stay relaxed and lean forward a little to watch the interviewer so you appear interested and engaged. 
  • Don't lean back – it appears too casual and unprofessional.
  • Keep your feet on the floor and pull back against the lower back of the chair
  • Pay close attention to the interviewer and listen to them carefully to make sure you do not interrupt them in between. 
  • Stay calm even if you had a bad experience at a previous position or were fired; keep your emotions to yourself and do not show anger.

Before leaving the interview, be sure to give the interviewer another firm handshake or smile. On your way out, say goodbye to the receptionist or anyone else you spoke to during the interview. 

Your verbal communication is important too. Don't use slang. Speak clearly and definitely remember your manners and thank the interviewer for taking the time to meet you. But, if you want help learning interview skills, you can also do it online with the help of the SpeakoClub app. This is your online English learning partner that can help you improve your communication skills and make you fluent. You can learn English for your interview. You can download it from the Play Store.