Free Career and Job Search Advice

7days · Posted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 3:38 am Post subject: Does the Correct Posture Matter?

Let's say you are going for an interview for a job that just called you. You arrive half an hour early. You arrive all dressed up, all clean, and you have a nice hand shake. But one thing was missing. You didn't stand up straight or you held your head down during the interview and looked at the floor. Or maybe you looked at the ceiling.

Just how important is having the right/correct posture (sitting straight, standing straight, holding your head upright, looking at the interviewer (prospective employer) in the eye, how important is that in an interview? Since the first impression is so very important, I'd think that having a good posture is important as well. SHOW CONFIDENCE! Have faith in yourself! YOU are the best applicant for their job opening, so YOU need to "sell yourself" to them. How do you do that? You already know most of the ways, now try using the correct posture.

Camilla · Posted: Thu Jun 23, 2005 5:11 pm Post subject:

Posture is very important.

Remember that about 80% of what we communicate is actually through our body language rather than the spoken word and part of that includes our posture.

The signals your body gives to the interviewer will have a lot to say when it comes to deciding whether or not that person will get the job. Somebody who shows signs of lacking self confidence isn't likely to be offered a job but on the other hand, neither is somebody who appears "cock sure".

I once had an interviewee sit opposite me with one ankle up on his opposite thigh, arms held loosely by his side and looking at me as if he had the whole world in his hand. I'm afraid he didn't. He most certainly didn't have me in his hand!

Try watching the news and noting how VIPs hold themselves. Politicians, especially, have been taught this and have it down to a fine art. The signals they give are confident but never "cock sure". They're in control and demand respect but also offer respect in return.

~Camilla

jeter4982 · Posted: Fri Apr 14, 2006 1:10 am Post subject:

I think posture is important, but I would say eye contact is probably more important. Eye contact shows that you are having a conversation, both speaking to the person, and listening to them, not just zoning out and doing your own thing. Now granted, you shouldn't be all slouched over in your chair with your feet on the desk, but if you act professionally, one slight fault in posture is not going to make that big of a difference.

Tom

StefanJechel · Posted: Fri Apr 21, 2006 6:22 am Post subject:

Posture, eye contact and body language are very important when it comes about an interview.

You must look intersted enough of the job, but in the mean time relaxed. Respect the person that is on the other side of the office, but in the mean time respect yourself.

I know cases when the people that are hiring try to see how you really are, and try to attract you in a trap (an example that comes now in my mind is a case where the person tha was hiring treated all people he interviewed very friendly, invited them to a coffee and so on - just to see if they become un-respectful). So no matter what consider your attitude.

Diligentfour · Posted: Mon May 12, 2008 12:25 pm Post subject:

Help for Ex-offenders looking for Jobs: Body Language

When looking for a job, just as important as the words we use is the message that our bodies are sending.

The person that shows that he not only has the skills to get the job done, but can fit in with the people that are already there and presents a positive attitude will get the job. You must understand that companies do not hire people. People hire people. The person that hires you must like you as a person. I’m not saying that if the interviewer likes you, you will get the job. I am saying if he doesn’t like you, you have no chance. Remember, you have a criminal record. Being friendly will make the interviewer focus on your charm instead of your record! You must be confident, friendly and likeable to get the job.

Your answers to questions are only part of what the interviewer is paying attention to. Your body language will tell more about you than what you say. Pay attention to the message that your body is sending.

Smile

Smiling is your most powerful body language tool. For many former inmates smiling is difficult. Some believe that smiling or other forms of kindness are signs of weakness. You must get rid of that attitude if you are serious about finding a job. A bright smile will open doors for you. When we smile at others it sends a message of trust and sincerity. Others feel safe and relax around those whose smiles are warm and genuine. I’ve heard things like “I don’t like to smile” or “I have nothing to smile about.” That type of attitude will keep you unemployed. If you do not smile easily, I suggest you practice until it comes naturally to you.

Posture

Your posture will make you look confident and professional. When you stand and walk, make sure that your back is straight, your shoulders are back, and your chin is up. When sitting, make sure your feet are flat on the floor, your back is straight, and your hands are on your lap. If you have a portfolio or notepad, hold it on your lap. Never fold your arms across your chest. It sends a message that you are defensive. Keeping your hands on your lap will keep you from doing annoying things with your hands. When the interviewer speaks, lean forward occasionally to show that you are interested.

Eye Contact

Maintaining positive eye contact is important if you want to send a message that you are honest and sincere. Those who have difficulty making eye contact when speaking or when spoken to make people uncomfortable and appear untrustworthy.

If you have trouble looking people in the eye, try looking at the bridge of the other person’s nose. It will have the same effect. Eye contact is very important in establishing trust, but do not stare. It is o.k. to occasionally look away, just be sure that you have that all important eye contact when either one of you are speaking.

Handshake

An interviewer's first impression of you is often formed when you shake hands. A firm handshake communicates self confidence so you always want to offer your hand when meeting people. This applies to men and women. Always wait for the interviewer to offer his or her hand first.

When shaking hands, be sure to meet the interviewer with a firm grip. A grip that is limp or weak leaves an impression of a weak character. A grip that is too strong says that the person is insecure and has something to prove. If your palms sweat, wipe them off before shaking hands.

For more Job Search tips for ex-offenders visit http://www.jailtojob.com

cv · Posted: Thu May 15, 2008 9:22 am Post subject: Body Language and Job Search

This article could be of help
http://www.cvtips.com/interview_body_language.html

ApplicantTree · New User Joined: 28 Mar 2008 Posts: 9 Career Advice: +0/-0

I'd say so, It shows that you are tentive and alert! Wink

KA · Expert Joined: 26 Mar 2006 Posts: 231 Career Advice: +2/-0

It certainly matters. Just like good eye contact & a firm hand shake

bigtruckdriver · Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2008 6:52 am Post subject: yep posture matter for sure

So far all i read was exactly right. Posture definitely matters.

What I find so irritating, is these people who keep running around talking about we should not judge.

Judging will always occur. It is normal, it is natural, and it is automatic. You will get judged. Knowing this, be proactive in your approach through life period whether its applying for a job or a loan.

How you present yourself is the first thing people have to make an initial assessment of who you are. Of course what comes out of your mouth will 2nd or counter the initial thought.

Do what you can to make the entire encounter a positive one. Posture included.

p.s. wow. That jailttojob.com is probably something I will promote in a nonprofit I am working on. Good idea diligentfour, great post also. Many great posts.

Good luck yall
The Crazy Trucker

Diligentfour · Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2008 11:51 am Post subject: Re: yep posture matter for sure

Join our Newsletter
CopyRight © 1999-2008 cvtips.com This material cannot be published under any form or condition.