The Importance of Interpreting Body Language During An Interview

Have you ever opened an email from a colleague and misinterpreted the words on the screen?

Perhaps you felt the message was critical of you or your work when that wasn't what the writer intended. Or maybe you've had the experience of speaking with a client over the phone and knowing, just from their tone of voice, that you're not going to get the sale.

Communication is more than just the words we use. Our tone of voice, facial expression, and body language all significantly affect how we're understood. We must be cautious if we're communicating in a situation where we can't use all of these elements to enhance our messages. Nonverbal communication is an essential aspect of our day-to-day life. Many influential leaders have recognized this, while others may have never thought much about it.

One of the first advocates for the power of nonverbal communication was the renowned behavioral psychologist Dr. Albert Mehrabian. Mehrabian's extensive research on the topic of body language resulted in the 7-38-55 rule. The 7-38-55 rule indicates that only 7% of all communication is done through verbal communication. In contrast, the nonverbal component of our daily communication, such as the tonality of our voice and body language, make up 38% and 55%, respectively. 

Dr. Albert Mehrabian Communication Model: 7% Spoken Word, 38% Tone, Voice, 55% Body Language

Therefore, when interviewing a candidate, it would be best to start paying close attention to their body language; nonverbal communication will tell much more about a candidate than what they say. By reading their body language, you can tell how interested they are in the job and how they will conduct themselves once hired. Body language includes facial expressions, eye contact, hand gestures, posture, and more.

Humans produce over 700,000 body signs daily, and the face is responsible for over 250,000 signs. Therefore, learning to read body signs before interviewing a candidate for the job is essential.

During the interview, pay attention to:

1. Eye contact: Eye contact generally shows confidence, comfort, and willingness to engage the interviewer. While some people may try to make eye contact on purpose during an interview, regular eye contact is a natural way for many people to connect with others.

2. Facial expressions: People's facial expressions offer a great way to interpret how they feel about a question or situation. Genuine, natural smiles are one of the best ways candidates show interest in a job.

3. Gestures: Many people use gestures with their hands to engage with others and emphasize their most crucial point. Some gesturing can show that someone is a confident speaker, while excessive hand motions may be perceived as erratic or unprofessional.

4. Posture: A candidate's stance can show their focus and interest in a position. Candidates interested in a job will likely put in the effort to sit up straight with an open posture that faces the interviewer.

5. Pauses: A candidate's pauses when answering a question can also be an essential part of their body language. People who take their time to consider how to answer show thoughtfulness and detailed consideration of each question.

6. Fidgeting: Because job interviews can be stressful, many candidates will fidget at least a little. However, intense nervous fidgeting or distracting movements, such as playing with their hair or picking at their fingers, may show a lack of confidence or social unawareness.

7. Body posture: Slouching is a red flag. It shows a lack of self-confidence and respect for interviewers. You'll want candidates who care enough to sit up straight during their interview.

Sitting on a chair's edge and leaning forward is usually positive body language. It shows that candidates are eager and interested in what's being said. But, if a candidate intrudes in your personal space by coming too close, it's not a good sign. Leaning back is usually negative. If you see a candidate leaning back suddenly, they may be getting defensive. Shoulder movements also help people communicate their emotions. If a candidate describes an experience with flamboyant words but remains stiff as a board or moves only one shoulder, they may be uncertain or lying.

8. Arm gestures: People often use hand and arm gestures for emphasis. It helps us express ourselves. Of course, there's a thin line between being expressive and being dramatic. So, unless you're hiring an actor, be wary of candidates who overdo this type of body language during an interview. Candidates who use chopping movements or lots of finger-pointing can be seen as authoritative, making you doubt whether they could work well with a team.

When candidates touch their face or play with their hair, they can appear deceptive or uncomfortable. When people rub their necks, they often try to comfort themselves or relieve frustration. It might be a symptom of lying, too.

Crossing arms can mean many things. But, usually, candidates who cross their arms in front of their chest during an interview probably feel insecure and defensive. Most people worldwide dislike seeing others crossing their arms because it's distancing. But it's a natural reaction when meeting a stranger, and it's a good sign when candidates unfold their arms later during their interview.

Guidelines for reading body language

Observe extreme behavior. A candidate's harmless tic doesn't mean they won't fit in well at your company. But be cautious about extreme behaviors, like constantly checking their phone.

Spot the difference. You can read people's body language by spotting changes in their movements or posture. Imagine, for example, that a candidate suddenly starts tapping their foot. Maybe they feel the interview is taking too long or they're facing an uncomfortable question.

Connect the dots. You can't always tell what a specific gesture means on its own. For example, people may cross their arms when they're cold. But, when you see a candidate crossing their arms, crossing their legs and balling their fists simultaneously, brace yourself for an aggressive answer.

As you have learned, communication starts with our body language and gestures, and the spoken word plays a tiny part in reading someone. To get more proficient in reading candidates' body language and tonality, go to YouTube and watch some videos. They're very insightful and will give you practical information on what to look for.