It s Not the Clothes You Wear ...

It’s Not the Clothes You Wear …

When contemplating how to make a good impression, most people don’t think beyond dressing appropriately and combing their hair. In fact, the way you sit, stand, and move has a lot more to do with how you come across during an interview. Therefore, be extremely conscious of body language. Your appearance is just as important as what you say. Even in print interviews that your audiences will never see, the wrong body language can divert a reporter’s attention from your key messages and even signal areas you wish to avoid.

Body language should always convey energy—the sparkle that you get when you know something exciting and can’t wait to share it. Energy is not New Agey. It’s very real. Pay attention to the way you react to people when you talk to them. In particular, make and maintain eye contact with the interviewer. Shifting your eyes and evading direct eye contact conveys impatience, discomfort, guilt, or lack of interest. Keep your gaze slightly upward. Listen intently, and lean slightly forward if you are at a desk.

Don’t drum on a table with your fingers, swivel in your chair, jingle keys in your pockets, rustle papers, or toy with microphones, pencils, water glasses, and clothing. In particular, keep your hands away from your face. In addition to betraying your uneasiness, these gestures will be amplified by broadcast equipment to distracting and embarrassing levels.

Don’t nod as you listen to a negative or erroneous question. Nodding is wrong—period. The act of nodding is an involuntary response when you understand a question, and although it’s quite normal, it can create some very problematic impressions. Nodding without saying anything first won’t look great in any situation. But nodding at something you are entirely against or confused by can be interpreted as confirmation of the question. Saying “ah ha!” and “yes” and “yeah” all the time is even worse. Do it in front of a mirror and you’ll see why right away. Likewise, don’t smile or laugh inappropriately if a question catches you off guard. These reactions convey guilty surprise. Also, be careful about smiling to demonstrate your understanding of a question or point; the gesture could be misconstrued as smug or arrogant. If you flub an answer, ask for the opportunity to restate. “May I start again?” is acceptable. If they say no, sorry, do it anyway. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.

Finally, avoid eating a heavy meal before an interview, because digestion uses a large amount of energy and you won’t be “on” 100 percent. And, if you happen to be doing phone interviews, please stand (see Chapter 5). That will make your energy rise and help you convey a positive attitude through your voice.