Non verbal communication in a hiring interview

What is "non-verbal communication"?

These are all forms of communication outside of words. According to the work of psychology professor Albert Mehrabian, the meaning of words only counts for 7% in the transmission of a message. The rest of the message that we transmit is conveyed by our voice, our intonation, our expressions and micro expressions, our visual impression, the way of dressing, of makeup, of hair,… All these facets transmit a message about our personality whether we like it or not.

 

Why adapt your non-verbal communication during an interview?

When they meet with you, the recruiter will not be able to ignore the messages of your non-verbal communication, which will lead them to influence their perception of you and impact their judgment. Their hiring decision will undoubtedly be influenced by your attitudes and the way you communicate. On the other hand, when there is a mismatch between your words and your thoughts, the body that is sending your signal is in opposition, and the recruiter may feel that the person is in conflict with themselves, uncomfortable, or trying to hide something. thing. Your speech will then be discredited and will lose its value in the eyes of the recruiter.

 

How to adapt your non-verbal communication during an interview?

Prepare well for your interview:

It is essential to be well prepared for the job for which you are applying: knowing the position, the company, the sector and the work environment that may suit us and why.

 

Good preparation will give you more confidence and ease on the big day, which will have a direct impact on your non-verbal communication, making it more fluid and natural.

 

How to adapt your non-verbal communication during an interview?

Stay natural and authentic:

Many physical behaviors are linked to the expression of the subconscious. The more authentic you are and aligned with your values and desires, the less your body will react. Conversely, if our words do not reflect our thinking, the body will activate and come and betray you. As with the typical gesture of a liar who rubs the tip of his nose ...

 

Your dress code:

It's a good idea to think about your outfit for the day of the interview. This must be in line with the industry and the company. If you show up in a suit / business suit when everyone in the company is dressed casually you will indirectly create a feeling of inadequacy. And vice versa.

 

Your attitude and your vocabulary:

without forcing yourself either, try to adapt your language to that of your interlocutors. This will allow for smoother communication that will put those in front of you at ease. It will also prove that you are able to easily find your place in your future business.

 

 

 

Although a lot is played out in the subconscious, increasing our vigilance on the reactions of our body helps to avoid sending bad signals:

- Look your interlocutor in the eye. And if there are several: switch from one to the other. Even if a visual “affinity” is created with one of them, be sure to watch each one so that no one is left out.

- Take notes and have a positive attitude, while showing that you value what the other person is saying.

- Smile. Presenting yourself in a positive way will generate a favorable impression on the recruiter.

- Take care of your first and last impressions. The way you shake hands, your tone of voice, your walk ... are all elements that will mark your interlocutor.

 

 

D-Day: what not to do

Parasitic Attitudes: Playing with your pen, chewing gum, scratching your face, looking at your phone, tapping your foot nervously… These little attitudes betray your stress and with a little care can be controlled.

 

The handshake: Avoid at all costs the soft or, on the contrary, crushing handshake. Find the right balance for a frank, engaging, and confidence-inspiring handshake.

 

Your posture: Here too, do not fall for the caricature: neither too rigid, nor too relaxed. Opt for a straight and flexible posture, and open (no crossed arms).

 

Your facial expression: be smiling and positive, without being frozen. Smile appropriately, and when you don't, keep your face relaxed as much as possible.

 

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