Body language is one of the very powerful ways of communicating. The term “body language” includes just about any manner, gesture, or posture that conveys meaning to the observer. Body language is especially meaningful in an interview as your interviewer will be paying attention to nonverbal cues as much as to what you have to say. Even before you utter a single word, your body language will give your interviewers their first impression of you. Every small movement that you make will amplify and suggest what’s going on in your mind. You might unknowingly minimize the chances of getting your dream job just due to faulty actions which don’t convey the right message about you.

Starting at the top, lets see what should be the ideal movements which emanate positive vibes about you:

  • Face: Your face is the index of your mind. It is the most transparent medium in your body and every expression will send out large volumes of signals, both positive and negative. You can use facial expressions to get your points across in the right context. A simple smile can make others feel more at ease while a harsh or blank facial expression often indicates outright hostility.
  • Eyes: Eye contact is is another significant aspect. It would be ideal to maintain direct eye contact. Consistent eye contact would indicate to your interviewer that you are thinking positively about what ever they’re saying. Fickle eye movements suggest insincerity. However make sure that in an effort to maintain eye contact, you do not come across as offensive and intimidating.
  • Hands: Hand movements can convey confidence, arrogance or defensiveness. You can use it to emphasize your verbal statements. It will give added stress to what you want to convey without actually saying it. Folding your arms is generally interpreted as a defensive move. It is better to let your hands lie loosely on your lap or place them on the armrests of your chair. From these positions it’s also easy to support your words with hand gestures.
  • Sitting Posture: You can give your interview a boost by leaning forward slightly to show your enthusiasm and nodding whenever is appropriate, particularly when your interviewer is making an important point.

Now, here are some of the things you should avoid:

  • Repeatedly crossing and uncrossing your legs or arms.
  • Fiddling with your hair or clothes
  • Touching your face
  • Scratching your head
  • Playing with a button or pen.

http://jobsblog.tolmol.com/2008/04/03/during-a-job-interview-mind-your-body-language/