19 NON-VERBAL COMMUNICATION 1. HANDSHAKE The handshake is your first interaction with an interviewer. It is as important as being dressed appropriately for an interview. Make sure you have a firm handshake and maintain eye contact with the person whose hand you are shaking. Know your interviewer, feel your interviewer out to see if they prefer a handshake or not. 2. POSTURE Sit up straight during your interview. 3. ACTIVE LISTENING Body language can show that you are interested and truly listening. Be optimistic and alert, but relaxed. 4. BE RELAXED Do not slouch or sit too stiffly. Take a deep breath before meeting with the interviewer. 5. EYE CONTACT Maintain friendly and attentive eye contact without staring. Do not let your eyes wander. When there is more than one interviewer, establish eye contact with everyone. 6. FACIAL EXPRESSION Make sure your facial expressions match what you are saying. Relax and smile often. 7. GESTURES Be careful not to tap nervously or fidget. Do not bite nails, chew gum or smoke. These gestures may give a bad impression. 8. C³ Appear calm, cool and confident. Do not appear desperate. The best strategy to develop appropriate body language is to practice in front of a mirror or get feedback from friends and family. You can also practice using InterviewStream: dol.ny.gov/interviewstream. WHAT TO TAKE TO THE INTERVIEW It is important to be prepared with a list of things you will need to bring with you to the interview. Here are a few things you should bring: • Photo ID or identification for a security check-in desk • Copies of your resume • Copies of reference letters • A pad of paper and a pen • A portfolio or work sample, if applicable • The address and room location for the interview • Directions to the interview location and the phone number of the contact person for the interview • A list of past employers with addresses, dates and phone numbers • A list of possible questions to ask • A sheet with a list of your stories and takeaway points Having all these things with you on the day of your interview is good, but do not spend the interview flipping through papers to look for information. Be prepared to recall the highlights of your achievements during the interview and use the documents only if the interviewer asks for them. HANDLING INTERVIEW ANXIETY AND JITTERS Some anxiety is healthy and normal, but too much may ruin your interview. These tips will help alleviate any pre-
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTM2NjgzMA==