August 20 2010 - A survey conducted among 228
Canadian hiring managers identified body language mistakes in interviews that are likely to reduce chances of recruitment.
The survey was conducted online by Harris Interactive on behalf of CareerBuilder.com. The researchers found that failure to make eye contact was
significantly off-putting to 68 per cent of respondents, followed by lack of smile (45 per cent) and bad posture (37 per cent).
Other factors included:
crossing arms over their chest (33 per cent)
- fidgeting too much in their seat (34 per cent)
- an overly weak handshake (33 per cent)
- playing with something on the table (32 per cent)
- playing with hair or touching their face (21 per cent)
The report offers advice to help avoid body language mistakes during interview:
- Keep calm - To make the best impression, take measures to stay as calm as possible. Leave plenty of time to get to
the interview, avoid caffeine and take deep breaths.
- Practice makes perfect - Advance preparation should help reduce anxiety. Rehearse with friends or family, research the
company and anticipate common interview questions.
- See for yourself - Viewing yourself while speaking can identify inadvertent body language mistakes. Use of a mirror or
videotape may help determine any need for change.
Rosemary Haefner, vice president of human resources for CareerBuilder commented:
"In a highly competitive job market, job seekers need to set themselves apart in the interview stage. All that pressure, though, may have some job seekers making body language mistakes that don't convey a confident message. To avoid these faux pas, and ensure you're remembered for the right reasons, try practising ahead of time in front of a mirror or family and friends."
