We hear a lot of advice about preparing for an interview. It’s always about how early you sleep and wake up, how good your breakfast is, how familiar you are with the route to the company’s premises, how much you researched the company beforehand and how ready you are for the possible questions.
It’s a very different story when you’re actually doing the interview, though. There is no way to undo the impact of your answers on the interviewer’s assessment of you. And of course, your performance at the interview will determine a significant part of the result of your application.
The only real weapons you have in the on-the-spot situation of an interview are signals – cues and habits, whether verbal or non-verbal, that tell the interviewer you have what they need for the position. So how do you send out these signals for interview success? Continuing from last week, let’s run over another handy signal this week to get you ready for your next turn at the candidate’s seat.
MODERATE YOUR HAND GESTURES.
Using hand gestures to enhance your words and facial expression helps the interviewer understand your answers better. But if you use too much of them too often, it can reveal your nervousness or lack of self-confidence. It might be a sign that your mind is unconsciously using your hands to search for something to hold on to for assurance.
Try to avoid wasting the potential of hand gestures in this way. When done in moderation, they are simple and powerful tools that can enhance your speaking. It’s about timing and the kind of gesture you use. Match enthusiastic answers with energetic gestures at the right moment. Use either one or both of your hands to place emphasis on a point you are explaining or defending. Express yourself with your hands, but always anchor it to what you’re trying to say and don’t overdo it.