"Interview skills and communication skills are not just about speech techniques one follows. Up to 60% of the impression that you make is through your body language. Whatever the reality behind this statement, it is undoubtable that the way you dress and behave at an interview will strongly influence the person who is looking at you, even if it is subconscious."

To make a strong impression, there are a number of accepted rules that you need to reflect upon and adopt:

CHOOSE A GOOD POSITION : In an interview, you will normally be directed to a specific seat. However, interviews can often be conducted in oversized environments. In such a situation, make sure that you choose a seat which enables you to see everyone involved without having to rotate your head exaggeratedly.

RIGHT POSTURE : Plant both feet onto the ground so that you remain stable and put your hands on the table. Keep yourself upright, with a slight slant forward and your shoulders relaxed.

DON'T BE AFRAID TO "OWN THE SPACE”: It is okay to stand or sit with your legs slightly apart, and in fact, it is a sign of confidence.

 LIMIT YOUR HANDS AND ARMS MOVEMENT: It is perfectly okay to move your arms and hands around, and if that is the way that you normally behave then don't try to become someone else. Your personality and enthusiasm are as important as everything else.

SMILE : A nervous smile is better than no smile at all. No one wants to recruit a grumpy person or someone who looks like they are not enjoying themselves. Smile lightly also when you are being introduced to each member of your panel. This is important to create a rapport.

 MAINTAIN EYE CONTACT : If you do not make an eye contact, you will come across as evasive and insecure.

BEWARE OF THE PROPS : If you have a pen with you, avoid fiddling with it. Similarly, if they offer you tea or coffee etc., make sure that you can cope with it.

MIRROR THE INTERVIEWER'S BEHAVIOUR : Mirroring (i.e. acting similarly) to someone is an indication that there is a connection. It generally happens normally, but you may be able to influence it too, if only to give the interviewer that impression.

AND RELAX... : At the end of the day, you can't spend all your energy focusing on body language. There is no point having a brilliant body language if you are talking rubbish. Bear in mind that body language is a reflection of your level of confidence.

 - Ashish Soam
MBA III