How To Make a Good Impression During Job Interview

If you want to know how to make a good job interview impression, you’ll love this article.

A job interview can be seen as a delicate negotiation. Both parties, the candidate and the employer, have their own goals and priorities. The candidate wants the position, the salary, and the benefits that come with it. On the other hand, the company is seeking the most qualified individual at the lowest cost, while also looking for someone who will remain loyal and contribute to the organization long-term. This dynamic creates a high-stakes environment where both sides must navigate their interests to reach a mutual agreement.

In essence, an interview is a balancing act. Companies aim to secure the right person at a reasonable salary, while applicants hope to secure the best possible compensation package while demonstrating that they are the ideal candidate for the role. Both sides are negotiating, but they have conflicting priorities, which is what makes the process so intricate. Beyond just skills and experience, an individual’s ability to effectively communicate nonverbally plays a huge role in how they are perceived and can influence the outcome of the interview.

How To Make a Good Job Interview Impression

First impressions are pivotal in any interview. Your body language, facial expressions, and overall demeanor shape how others perceive you, and recruiters often rely on these nonverbal signals throughout the entire interview process. These cues matter just as much as what you say, if not more. Whether it’s a phone screen, a first-round interview with a recruiter, or a final interview with a manager, your nonverbal communication can determine whether you succeed or fail in making the right impression.

Setting the stage for a positive interview experience starts before you even speak. Simple things like building rapport with the recruiter, greeting everyone with a smile, dressing appropriately, being well-groomed, and demonstrating good manners can make all the difference. These early actions create a sense of trust and professionalism that can carry you through the interview. They help paint a picture of who you are, even before you’ve shared your qualifications.

What you wear, how you carry yourself, and the energy you bring to the room can affect how you are judged by the interviewer. In many cases, these first impressions and nonverbal signals can outweigh the technical aspects of your resume. A confident posture, a firm handshake, and eye contact are all signals that you are serious and engaged. Conversely, slouching, avoiding eye contact, or appearing disheveled can cause doubts about your professionalism and suitability for the role, no matter how impressive your background might be.

This is especially important when interviews are brief, as time constraints leave less room to showcase your abilities. A positive appearance and strong body language can quickly compensate for a lack of lengthy interaction. However, the opposite is also true: negative nonverbal signals can overshadow even the most impressive qualifications on your resume. As a result, a well-rounded candidate is one who not only has the necessary skills but also presents themselves effectively, aligning their appearance and demeanor with the expectations of the role.

Not everyone is naturally skilled at interviews, particularly when it comes to nonverbal communication. However, it’s a skill that can be developed. Being aware of your body language and understanding how to interpret the nonverbal cues of others is crucial for effective communication in any interview setting. Being mindful of how you present yourself, both verbally and nonverbally, is key to demonstrating that you are the right fit for the job. Social skills may not come easily to everyone, but they can be learned and refined over time, making a significant difference in how you are perceived during the interview process.

First Impressions and Nonverbal Communication

Your first impression can make or break an interview, and nonverbal cues play a huge role in shaping that initial perception. If you want to be seen as someone with strong interpersonal skills, start by smiling and maintaining eye contact, but don’t overdo it—eye contact should feel natural, not forced. A genuine smile can convey warmth and approachability, while steady eye contact shows that you’re engaged and confident. Just avoid staring, as it can make the conversation feel uncomfortable.

When speaking, aim for clarity. Speak loudly enough to be heard without raising your voice, and avoid mumbling or speaking too softly. Confidence comes through when your words are clear and deliberate, so take your time and don’t rush through your answers. If you’ve said something important, pause briefly afterward. A well-timed pause gives your words weight and lets your message sink in, giving the listener time to absorb what you’ve just said.

Have you ever had a conversation with someone who seemed completely disengaged, as if they weren’t interested in what you were saying? That feeling can leave a lasting negative impression. To avoid this, show genuine enthusiasm about the role you’re applying for and the company you’re interviewing with. No recruiter wants to spend time with a candidate who appears indifferent or distracted. An energetic, engaged candidate is far more likely to make a lasting impact than someone who looks disinterested or tired.

One effective way to demonstrate enthusiasm is to speak with energy when discussing your professional experiences, especially how they relate to the position you want. Show that you’ve done your research on the company—mention their history, recent projects, or future goals. This not only signals that you’re well-prepared for the interview, but also shows that you’re genuinely excited about the opportunity. Your enthusiasm will give you confidence, which will naturally come across in your body language and tone throughout the interview.

Recruiters are tasked with identifying the best candidate, someone who not only has the necessary skills but also the right mindset and personality to thrive in the role. But how can they determine if you’re the right fit? They don’t just rely on your resume—they’re closely observing how you communicate, both verbally and nonverbally.

Your face can reveal a wealth of information. Your facial expressions often communicate more than words alone. A furrowed brow, a smile, or a twitch of the lip can all convey your emotional state and level of engagement. If you’re nervous or under stress, these subtle cues become even more apparent. Recruiters are skilled at picking up on these signs and will use them to assess whether you’re comfortable, confident, and suitable for the job.

The way you speak also matters. It’s not just about the content of your answers but how you deliver them. The structure of your sentences, the clarity of your thoughts, and even your choice of words offer valuable insight into your communication style and problem-solving ability. If you’re overly formal, it could come across as stiff or detached, while being too casual might seem unprofessional. Finding the right balance is key, and understanding the company’s culture can help guide your approach.

For instance, a tech startup likely has a more relaxed and informal communication style compared to a corporate law firm, where professional decorum is critical. Researching the company beforehand will give you a sense of its work culture, helping you adapt your language and demeanor to align with what’s expected. Being able to adjust your communication style accordingly shows that you understand the environment you’re applying to and can seamlessly integrate into it.

Nonverbal Communication and Making a Positive First Impression

Want to leave a strong impression in your interview and come across as likable? Start with a smile. While it’s generally recommended to smile during an interview, it’s important to be mindful of when and how you smile. A smile can convey warmth and openness, but a sarcastic grin or one that emerges out of frustration will have the opposite effect. A genuine smile, especially when the recruiter mentions something positive or even shares a bit of humor, can help build rapport and show you’re engaged.

When you first meet your interviewer, a smile can be a great way to break the ice and establish a friendly atmosphere. As you interact, keep your eye contact focused on the recruiter rather than scanning the room. Looking around might give the impression that you’re uncomfortable or distracted. Maintain steady but natural eye contact to show confidence and interest.

Remember, while a smile is a powerful tool, moderation is key. Smiling too much or in the wrong moments might come across as inauthentic. Subtle, well-timed smiles can leave a positive impression, even if the recruiter doesn’t consciously notice them—they’ll still register the warmth and approachability on a subconscious level.

It’s also critical to avoid showing negative emotions like disgust or anger during an interview. These emotions are obvious to recruiters and will undoubtedly affect your chances negatively. Even if you’re feeling frustrated, it’s important to stay composed, as any display of displeasure could become a major red flag in their evaluation.

Once you’re aware of these nonverbal cues, you can use them strategically to reinforce your message. Pay attention to the recruiter’s facial expressions while you speak. Are they nodding? Do they seem engaged or intrigued? If they appear disinterested, consider adjusting your approach, perhaps elaborating on a point or shifting the tone of your response to keep the conversation engaging.

Nonverbal Communication – Gestures and Posture

Positive body language is another essential element of a successful interview. Using gestures can help emphasize key points, making your answers more dynamic and impactful. Even if you’re sitting across from the recruiter, your body language can play a crucial role. Keep your hands visible on the table or in your lap rather than hiding them under the table. Using your hands as you speak helps reinforce your message and shows that you’re confident and willing to engage. On the other hand, sitting completely still or fiddling nervously with your fingers can make you appear disengaged or uncomfortable.

Certain nonverbal behaviors should be avoided, as they can send the wrong message. For example, avoid touching your face or scratching during the interview, as it can be seen as a sign of nervousness or insecurity. This is something you should also avoid while waiting for the interview to begin. Small actions like these might seem harmless, but they could be noticed by the receptionist or the recruiter, potentially leaving a negative impression before you even begin.

Another important point is to avoid swaying in your chair. Excessive movement can signal unease or lack of focus. Similarly, avoid fiddling with objects in front of you, like your smartphone, keys, or pens. These distractions pull your attention away from the conversation and may make you seem disinterested or nervous. If you need to adjust your clothing or hair, do so before the interview starts—take advantage of the bathroom or a mirror at reception to ensure you look polished and professional.

Recruiters want to see energy and enthusiasm from candidates—they’re looking for someone who can bring vitality to the team, not someone who looks like they’re uninterested or disengaged. A great way to show enthusiasm is through hand gestures. For example, when describing something, you can use your hands to indicate size, shape, or direction. This not only helps convey your message more clearly but also alleviates some of the stress or nervousness you might be feeling. It’s far better than nervously playing with your fingers under the table.

Touching your face or body during a conversation is often a subconscious reaction to stress or cognitive overload. When you’re thinking hard or feeling anxious, your body might instinctively reach for your face, neck, or other areas. Understanding this reaction can help you manage it in both interviews and daily life. If you notice someone else doing this while speaking to you, it’s usually a sign that they’re concentrating hard on what to say next.

The tips shared here aren’t just useful for interviews—they can also improve how you interact in everyday situations. Being mindful of your body language and learning how to manage it effectively can enhance your communication skills in both professional and personal settings, helping you come across as more confident, engaged, and thoughtful.

Mastering Verbal Communication and Handling Difficult Moments

One key trait of highly effective communicators, especially in interviews, is their ability to speak clearly and confidently without unnecessary pauses or filler words. If you want to leave a strong impression on your recruiter, aim to deliver your answers in one smooth flow. While it’s important to take your time and avoid rushing, talking too quickly can make you seem nervous or robotic. Similarly, using filler words like “um,” “uh,” or “you know” can undermine your confidence and professionalism, so it’s best to eliminate them.

Both long pauses and filler words are often signs of hesitation, nervousness, or uncertainty. If you want to project confidence and assertiveness, practice speaking fluently and avoiding these distractions. If you feel a pause coming, instead of filling it with “um” or “well,” you can ask the interviewer a question or clarify something you’ve just said. Asking a relevant follow-up question or requesting more details about the role can help you gather your thoughts and give you the time you need to compose your next response. This approach not only makes you sound more confident but also shifts the conversation from an interview to a dialogue, which can be more engaging for both parties.

Another common issue in interviews is failing to clearly communicate your skills. One effective strategy to overcome this challenge is preparation. For each skill you want to highlight, prepare a solid, specific example that demonstrates how you’ve successfully used that skill in the past. Having a few concrete examples ready to go will help you avoid uncertainty and prevent awkward pauses in your answers.

Interestingly, confusion can also arise when you have too many examples to choose from. If you’re unsure which example to give, it can leave the recruiter questioning your ability to communicate clearly. Narrowing down your examples to the most relevant, impactful ones will help you present yourself as a well-prepared candidate. In fact, candidates who come to interviews with clear examples are often ahead of those who haven’t put in the same level of preparation.

Good Candidate vs. Bad Candidate: The Role of Social Signals

Social signals—those nonverbal cues and body language actions—are essential in creating meaningful interactions during an interview. These signals not only support what you’re saying but can significantly enhance your message. For instance, when you talk about something you’re passionate about, a genuine smile can reinforce your enthusiasm and make you appear more engaging to the recruiter.

However, social signals can also create confusion if they don’t align with your words. For example, if you talk about a past achievement you’re proud of but your facial expression shows sadness or disinterest, the recruiter might be confused about how you truly feel about the accomplishment. This discrepancy between your words and body language can create doubts, so it’s important that your nonverbal signals are in harmony with the message you’re trying to convey.

Social signals, when used correctly, can significantly boost the way you come across in an interview. They amplify your strengths, help establish rapport, and make your answers feel more authentic. However, to be most effective, your body language should consistently align with the message you are delivering. For example, if you’re talking about a team project, a gesture to show collaboration, or leaning slightly forward to show interest, can reinforce your verbal message.

That being said, interpreting nonverbal cues is not always straightforward. Everyone has different levels of sensitivity to social signals, and even trained recruiters can misinterpret or miss them entirely. Recognize that even a confident posture or a strong handshake can sometimes be overlooked or misread. This means you should aim to be clear and consistent in your nonverbal communication. If you want your body language to be noticed, try to use your social signals multiple times during the interview, reinforcing them to make sure they don’t get lost in the conversation.

The Role of Confidence in Nonverbal Communication

One of the key factors in projecting confidence during a job interview is being aware of your mannerisms. These small, often unconscious movements—like fidgeting, playing with your hair, or shifting in your seat—can give off subtle signals of hesitation or nervousness. While they may seem harmless, they can actually undermine your confidence in the eyes of a recruiter. Even if the recruiter doesn’t consciously recognize the science behind these behaviors, they can still perceive them as signs of insecurity.

For example, if you frequently touch your face, twirl your pen, or tap your foot while answering questions, it may suggest to the recruiter that you’re unsure or uncomfortable. It’s not that these gestures are inherently wrong, but when used excessively, they can distract from your message and create the impression that you lack confidence. Recruiters want to see someone who can answer questions clearly and assertively, without needing to rely on nervous habits.

In some cases, mannerisms can even lead to misunderstandings. They may give the impression that you’re being evasive or not entirely truthful. For instance, if you’re explaining a challenge you faced at a previous job but are also nervously playing with your fingers, the recruiter might subconsciously think you’re hiding something or not being fully transparent. This can negatively impact their perception of your credibility.

To avoid this, it’s important to keep unnecessary gestures to a minimum. While it’s natural to move your hands when speaking, constantly shifting or overusing your body language can distract the interviewer from your actual answers. If you’re constantly fidgeting or gesturing excessively, it might suggest that you’re not comfortable with the subject matter or you’re not confident in what you’re saying. On the other hand, maintaining stillness and allowing your answers to flow naturally without relying on extraneous movements can make a positive impression.

A lot of these mannerisms happen because you’re thinking hard about what to say next. While it’s completely normal to pause and gather your thoughts during an interview, it’s essential to manage how these pauses come across. If you’re constantly pausing to think or searching for words, it can signal to the recruiter that you’re not well-prepared or that you don’t have a strong grasp of the subject.

To avoid this, thorough preparation is key. Anticipate the most common questions you might be asked during the interview and have well-thought-out responses ready. The more you prepare, the more confident you’ll feel, and the less likely you’ll be to rely on mannerisms or unnecessary gestures. It’s also helpful to mentally rehearse how you’ll answer questions, so you can deliver your responses smoothly and without hesitation.

By minimizing mannerisms and preparing for common questions, you’ll not only feel more confident but also present yourself as a composed and capable candidate. Confidence is about conveying that you’re in control of the conversation, and that you’re ready to take on the challenges of the role without being overwhelmed by nervousness or uncertainty.

Reading and Using Nonverbal Cues to Your Advantage

Understanding and interpreting nonverbal signals is a powerful tool in any job interview. Facial expressions and body language can reveal a lot about a person’s true feelings and intentions, even before they say a word. Just as your words carry meaning, so does the way your body reacts to the conversation. For example, if you’re saying something enthusiastic and your body posture slumps or you avoid eye contact, the recruiter may be confused. The mismatch between your verbal and nonverbal cues can create doubt about your sincerity or engagement.

Nonverbal cues are like a mirror to your emotions and thoughts—they change based on what’s being said and heard. For instance, if you’re explaining an achievement that excites you, you’ll likely notice the recruiter’s body language shift. They might lean forward, nod, or smile, signaling that they’re engaged and interested. These are signals that you’ve hit the right note.

On the flip side, if the recruiter doesn’t respond positively to something you’ve said, you’ll likely catch a change in their demeanor. They might subtly look away, furrow their brow, or cross their arms, signaling discomfort or disinterest. When this happens, it’s important to adjust quickly. You can either pivot the conversation to another topic or ask a thoughtful question to re-engage the recruiter and give yourself a moment to recalibrate.

Your facial expressions are powerful and can drastically affect the impression you make. For instance, if a recruiter mentions the salary offered, and it’s far below your expectations, it’s tempting to display your disappointment with a facial expression of disgust or disbelief. However, this could be a serious misstep. Unlike a family dinner where an expression of dissatisfaction might go unnoticed, a job interview is a professional setting where any negative body language or micro-expressions are heavily scrutinized. It’s important to maintain composure and control your expressions. A neutral yet polite expression can help you maintain professionalism, even in moments of discomfort.

Your first impression begins before you even say a word. Recruiters often form their initial judgment based on your appearance, posture, and body language before they hear anything about your qualifications. If your attire is wrinkled or you appear disheveled, it may subconsciously signal to the recruiter that you lack attention to detail or don’t take the interview seriously, especially if the position requires regular face-to-face interaction or a professional appearance. The way you present yourself matters, and it’s crucial to make sure your outfit is neat and appropriate for the job you’re applying for.

Facial expressions can also play a key role in how interviewers perceive you. People often make snap judgments about others’ attractiveness, intelligence, and trustworthiness based solely on facial expressions. For instance, if you’re listening attentively, nodding occasionally and maintaining eye contact, you’ll appear engaged and respectful, even if the topic doesn’t immediately excite you. On the other hand, looking disinterested, checking your phone, or looking around the room can leave a negative impression, even if you have great answers to the questions being asked.

Remember, even the moments before your interview starts are an opportunity to leave a positive impression. If you’re waiting in the reception area, stay engaged by reading something related to the industry or company—this shows you are focused and well-prepared. Avoid the temptation to check social media or distract yourself with unrelated tasks. These small actions can speak volumes about your professionalism and preparedness. And while the receptionist might seem like a peripheral figure in the interview process, it’s crucial to recognize that they may also be observing and forming their own opinions about you.

While research shows that people often make more positive first impressions of those they find physically attractive, your nonverbal communication is the real game-changer. You don’t need to be the most striking person in the room to make a lasting impression. Your posture, the way you use space, and your gestures all communicate confidence and professionalism. Walk into the interview room with good posture, sit up straight, and avoid slouching. A confident stance can subconsciously signal to the recruiter that you’re capable and poised. You might even want to consider incorporating a “power pose”—a stance that makes you feel more powerful, such as standing with your shoulders back and hands on your hips, before the interview to boost your confidence.

Ultimately, your body language and facial expressions are powerful tools that, when used effectively, can complement your words and leave a lasting impression. The goal is to ensure that everything you say is supported by confident, composed nonverbal cues, helping the recruiter see you as the ideal candidate for the job.

Mastering First Impressions: Nonverbal Communication in Virtual and In-Person Interviews

In today’s digital world, virtual interviews are becoming increasingly common, and even though the format may differ from traditional face-to-face interviews, first impressions still play a crucial role. During a Skype or video interview, for example, your body may not be fully visible, but recruiters can still gauge a lot from your attire, facial expressions, and posture. These elements of nonverbal communication are powerful signals that convey your confidence and professionalism, even through a screen.

Though you may not be able to make full use of body language in a virtual interview, small cues still matter. Your facial expressions can reveal how engaged and interested you are, and the way you carry yourself while seated tells a lot about your self-assurance. Even if you’re only talking over the phone, your posture still plays a role in the way you come across. Slouching in your chair, or sitting back too casually, can subconsciously affect the tone of your voice and the clarity of your responses. On the other hand, maintaining an upright posture, sitting up straight, and speaking with intention will convey confidence and professionalism, even if your interviewer can’t see you.

When preparing for an interview, it’s essential to remember that looking competent can be just as important as actually being competent. Speaking with clarity, authority, and confidence can help you get your message across. However, there’s a subtle danger here: if your words are confident but your facial expressions suggest uncertainty—like raising your eyebrows or looking unsure—it could create doubt in the recruiter’s mind. Your nonverbal cues must align with what you’re saying to avoid confusion. For instance, if you answer a technical question and your face shows hesitation, the recruiter might question your expertise, even if your answer was sound.

Impressions are inherently subjective, and different interviewers may interpret your body language in various ways. One recruiter might find your open, confident posture engaging, while another might interpret it as overly assertive or even aggressive. This doesn’t mean you should second-guess every movement, but it’s essential to be mindful of how your nonverbal signals come across, especially when you’re trying to make a positive impression in a competitive job market.

For example, imagine you’re discussing your strengths with a recruiter. If your arms are crossed or you’re not making eye contact, it may signal defensiveness or a lack of enthusiasm. But if you maintain an open posture and make steady eye contact, it will reinforce your message and show that you are genuinely engaged and confident in your abilities. These small but impactful cues will help reinforce your words and leave a lasting impression.

Your clothing also plays an important role in how you’re perceived during an interview. While it may seem superficial, your outfit is often the first thing a recruiter notices about you. Even though qualifications and experience should take precedence in the hiring process, how you present yourself visually is still a powerful first impression. A well-chosen outfit can indicate that you respect the interview process, take the opportunity seriously, and understand the company’s culture.

If you’re unsure about the dress code at a particular company, don’t hesitate to ask your recruiter beforehand. They’ll likely appreciate your effort to fit in with the company’s culture. Once you have your outfit sorted, combine it with strong, confident body language and clear, consistent nonverbal communication. This will significantly boost your confidence and help you make a strong impression in the interview.

Finally, regardless of whether the interview is in-person or virtual, remember that your nonverbal communication is a powerful tool that can help you stand out from the competition. Be mindful of your body language, facial expressions, and attire, and always ensure that they align with the message you’re trying to convey. A confident, composed, and professional presence can elevate your chances of success and leave a lasting positive impression.

Przemkas Mosky
Przemkas Mosky started Perfect 24 Hours in 2017. He is a Personal Productivity Specialist, blogger and entrepreneur. He also works as a coach assisting people to increase their motivation, social skills or leadership abilities. Read more here