IT’S a fact – actions speak louder than words. So if you’re heading off to a job interview anytime soon, here are some things to bear in mind.

Apparently body language accounts for 55% of meaning, much more than the verbal content of an interview. Being all dressed up and prepared for the interview is going to account for nothing if the interviewer notices you have a weak handshake, a nervous tic, tend to fidget or like to twiddle your thumbs – all these things indicate nervousness and insecurity.

The right body language, on the other hand, can paint the right picture and make you look confident – a very important thing.

So what can you do to look the part? It’s all about striking the right balance. Here are some suggestions:

• Don’t eat or drink during the interview – this means no chewing gum, no munching on energy bars and no coffee. No drinking or eating anything unless the F&B has been provided and you’re invited to do so, which is highly unlikely.
  
  
• Behave at all times – watch your body language the moment you step into the building right up till you leave. The interviewer is not the only person who will be watching; the receptionist will be too and some don’t mind prattling off on any bad behavior.
  
  
• Concentrate – switch your phone off and be prepared for the interview. No texting, chatting or daydreaming.
  
  
• Take a good look – Be sure to make eye contact with the interviewer and focus on him or her … but don’t try to stare the person down. That’s just plain scary.
  
  
• Shake – Make sure your handshake is firm. A weak handshake is terrible and so is squeezing or crushing. Practice how much strength to put in that vital handshake.
  
  
• Think – Think before your speak – no jokes. And if you have to laugh at something that’s been said, pick an appropriate time.
  
  
• Be animated – Feel free to express yourself with the necessary gestures but keep in control. Don’t wave your hands around unnecessarily or too wildly and don’t fold your arms across your chest either.
  
  
• Chill – Staying relaxed is the key but don’t overdo it. Be sure to pay attention and lean forward a little to indicate that you’re showing interest. No leaning back or draping yourself all over the chair.
  
  
• Sit – Sit on the whole chair seat. Not only is sitting on the edge of the seat uncomfortable, it also indicates you might be nervous – kind of like you’re ready to run if anything goes wrong. Slouching, on the other hand, isn’t just bad posture, it suggests you’re unprepared.
  
  
• Stay – Keep your feet firmly on the floor and no fidgeting – no shaking you legs, playing with a pen or your hair and no trying to keep track of time by looking at your watch. Don’t be stiff like a statue though. Remember to nod and smile but at the right time. Doing it all the time can look idiotic.