10 Body Language Tricks For Nailing Your Job Interview

Frankie says, "Relax." But that's easier said than done. Breathe a little easier with help from OfficeTeam.

1. DON'T: Stare — it’s creepy.

DO: Look away to consider your answers before speaking.

Via psychologistworld.com

While avoiding eye contact is a sign of deceit, so is overwhelming eye contact. Creating a regular cue to look away stops you from appearing overly intense.

2. DON'T: Tap your feet.

Do: Keep your feet still.

Via westsidetoastmasters.com

Feet are often forgotten in the interview process, but a study found that increased feet movements are a good indication that someone is lying. So...stop jiggling your feet!

3. DON'T: Hide your hands.

DO: Steeple your fingers.

Via psychologytoday.com

Steepling your fingers indicates great confidence — save it for when you're making a point you're passionate about.

4. DON'T: Extend your hand palm down like you're royalty.

DO: Present your hand tilted slightly upward.

Via speechmastery.com

This reads as confident but humble. It indicates an eagerness to help.

5. DON'T: Furrow your brows as if the interviewer took the last piece of cake.

DO: Slightly raise your eyebrows.

Via nicolasfradet.com

Raised eyebrows indicate an eagerness and openness, while furrowed brows express domination, superiority, and — sometimes — anger.

6. DON'T: Sit facing your interviewer straight on as if it's a showdown.

DO: Angle your chair slightly.

Via today.com

Sitting straight on is unnatural and, frankly, uncomfortable. Promote a more relaxed, natural discussion by slightly angling your chair to the side when you sit down.

7. DON'T: Cross your arms.

DO: Almost anything else.

Via simplybodylanguage.com

Crossing your arms is a sign you're either resistant to the discussion or insecure with the topic at hand. Either is a big no-no for an interview. Avoid at all costs.

8. DON'T: Hunch your shoulders. Your mother taught you better.

DO: Sit up straight with your chest *slightly* forward.

Via psychology.about.com

This is an example of "open" posture, while hunched shoulders are "closed."

9. DON'T: Smile too much. Or frown too much.

DO: Mirror your interviewer's facial expressions.

Via psychologia.co

Most people do this subconsciously. By mirroring your interviewer's facial expressions, you're more likely to match their energy and enthusiasm for the role and convince them you'll fit seamlessly into their team.

10. DON'T: Duckface.

DO: Keep your mouth and jaw relaxed.

Via psychologytoday.com

A good way to reset is to breathe (quietly!) out through your mouth, and then maintain the natural shape that your jaw and lips form. If you find yourself biting your tongue, pursing your lips, or jutting your jaw, a quick breath can help you to reset.

All images © Dan Blaushild, Abbey Lossing / BuzzFeed