1. Crossing your arms

This is the classic defensive posture, creating a barrier in front of you to prevent a hypothetical attack to your upper torso. In the interview context, it signals a resistance to ideas and hostility to the opinion of the others. It is extremely difficult to build rapport when holding this posture (try it next time you are with your friend or partner!) and if it is your habit, it must be corrected. Keep your hands in your lap or on the table (if there is one) in front of you, when standing, keep hands at your sides. This lets the other person know that you are defensive and are open to discussing new ideas and opinions.

2. Looking down when speaking

This is the classic deference posture, looking down to signal recognition of hierarchy and avoiding a hypothetical thump from any alpha male. In the interview context, this can be readily interpreted as obsequiousness – not an attractive quality to present to an employer. It is extremely difficult to build respect and an equality-of-relations if you habitually drop your gaze when speaking. Look into the eyes of the listener when you begin your sentence, follow the 3 second rule before glancing away and look again when you have finished speaking. This lets the other person know that you are interested in engagement, whilst giving clear visual cues as to when he or she can interject.

3. Checking your watch

There is NO reason to do this at interview. Checking for the time or any other substitute distraction (flicking a pen, checking your phone, taking a call – I’ve seen them all!) indicates boredom, a lack of interest and a keeness for the interview to be over. If that truly is the case, you will do better by concluding the interview yourself and excusing yourself from the exercise.

4. False smiling

Many primatologists think that the smile was originally a sign of aggression – lips open, teeth bared – a warning to stay away. It has since evolved into a near universal way to communicate sincerity and friendliness, but it can quickly go wrong again if poorly executed or used out of context. A false or forced smile is one of the most hostile facial expressions – signaling deception, hidden motive, attempt at manipulation and a disguised threat. A genuine smile involves the entire face – eyes & mouth, whilst a false smile uses only the mouth. People seem to be very good at seeing the difference, so at interview, smile only when you mean it!

5. Poor posture

Slouching or hunching your shoulders immediately makes you look smaller and signals a lack of self-confidence. Your posture is possibly the first thing that people notice and often sets the tone on how you will be treated – and therefore, how the interview will go. Standing up straight with your shoulders back displays confidence and self-assuredness – this translates directly into respect. Stand with your feet shoulder width apart, head held up and your line of sight parallel to the floor. This will automatically stretch the spine, relaxes the shoulders and communicates your comfort in your surroundings.