Watch your Body Language

Body language -- we're not so conscious of it but a lot of information about who we are, our current mental state and our attitude can be communicated non-verbally through subtle ways, with our posture, facial and hand gestures.

 During a job interview, how we move and look can determine our eligibility for a job more than we answer to the questions, especially to a keen observer of body language.

Here are the most common body language mistakes applicants make in job interviews -- and how to avoid them.

THE HANDSHAKE

How you shake hands can be a critical first impression.

A parent most likely showed you the proper way to shake hands, it's a first lesson that's more important than you realized.

Make your handshake firm -- not aggressive but certainly not weak or limp. Make sure your palm is dry; if you're perspiring, wipe the sweat off before you exchange handshakes with your interviewer.

CROSSING YOUR ARMS

Crossing your arms is a sign of resistance and close mindedness. That's not a good impression to relay.

Relax your arms and keep your hands on your lap or on a table.

THE FACE TOUCH

People tend to touch their faces unconsciously when they're nervous. Sometimes, wiping your nose and/or mouth, this can be considered unattractive and unsanitary.

Touching your face can be interpreted as a symptom of untruthfulness.

If you want to make a good first impression, be very conscious of where your hands are. As much as possible, keep them still for the duration of the interview.

TOO MUCH NODDING

You might thing that nodding energetically is an earnest way to show agreement or paying attention, but too much nodding can be interpreted as being weak-minded or toadying favor.

When it's clearly appropriate, during a response or a request for information, nod moderately.

STARE VS. GLARE

Making eye contact is a good thing, but just plain staring is not. It may come off as glaring for some types of eyes.

The key here is moderation. Maintain eye contact without letting it become staring that causes discomfort and unease for the interviewer.

On the other extreme, don't let your eyes wander around as if you're not paying attention or disinterested in the interview.

Knowing how you communicate with body language can also be helpful after the job interview and working in the office with colleagues and supervisors as well as understanding their body language, it's like reading the atmosphere during meetings and gatherings.