The Do’s and Don’ts of Body Language in Job Interviews

Article Level: A1-A2

Explanation: This article explains the do’s and don’ts of body language in job interviews. Learn how eye contact, posture, gestures, and simple habits can help you look confident, respectful, and professional to make a positive first impression.

Commonly Used Words from the Article

1. Posture /ˈpɒstʃə/ (noun): The way you hold your body when standing or sitting.

   Good posture shows confidence.

2. Confident /ˈkɒnfɪdənt/ (adjective): Feeling sure of yourself.

   She felt confident during the interview.

3. Gesture /ˈdʒɛstʃə/ (noun): A movement of your hands or head to express something.

   He made a small gesture to explain his point.

4. Respectful /rɪˈspɛktf(ə)l/ (adjective): Showing good manners or politeness.

   It is respectful to turn off your phone in a meeting.

5. Impression /ɪmˈprɛʃən/ (noun): The feeling or opinion you create in someone’s mind.

   Her smile made a good impression on the interviewer.
   
   

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The Do’s and Don’ts of Body Language in Job Interviews

When you go to a job interview, your words are very important. But your body language can also make a big difference. Body language is how you use your face, hands, and posture to communicate. A good first impression can help you feel confident and show respect to the interviewer. Let’s look at the main do’s and don’ts of body language in job interviews.

The Do’s

1. Make eye contact.
Looking at the interviewer shows you are confident and listening. Do not stare, but keep friendly eye contact during the conversation.

2. Sit up straight.
Good posture shows that you are focused and professional. Sit with your back straight and your feet on the floor.

3. Smile naturally.
A smile makes you look friendly and positive. Smiling at the right time can help you connect with the interviewer.

4. Use hand gestures.
Small hand movements can make your ideas clearer. Keep them natural and do not overdo it.

5. Nod to show understanding.
When you nod your head, it shows you are listening and agree with the interviewer. This is a simple way to show interest.

The Don’ts

1. Don’t cross your arms.
Crossed arms can look unfriendly or defensive. Keep your arms relaxed to show openness.

2. Don’t fidget.
Playing with your hair, tapping your fingers, or moving too much can make you look nervous. Try to stay calm and still.

3. Don’t avoid eye contact.
Looking at the floor or away too much can seem like you are not confident. Balance your eye contact.

4. Don’t use your phone.
Checking your phone during an interview is disrespectful. Turn it off before you enter the room.

5. Don’t forget to thank them.
At the end of the interview, a small smile and a thank you with good eye contact will leave a strong impression.

Final Thoughts

Your body language can tell as much as your words. Practising these do’s and avoiding the don’ts will help you feel more confident and professional. Remember, small changes in your body language can help you succeed in your job interview.

Grammar Notes

✏️ The article uses:

• Imperatives (e.g., Make eye contact, Don’t cross your arms). Imperatives are used to give advice, orders, or instructions.

• Present Simple tense (e.g., Smiling at the right time can help you connect). Present Simple is used for facts and general truths.

Mini Grammar Lesson:
The imperative form is very simple. Use the base form of the verb:

• Positive: Sit up straight.

• Negative: Don’t fidget.
  
  

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Five Questions Based on the Article 

• Why is body language important in a job interview?

• • What does making eye contact show?

• How should you sit during an interview?

• Why should you not cross your arms?

• What should you do at the end of the interview?
  
  

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