When it comes to dealing with people in person, whether you’re at a job interview, serving a customer at work, or just seeing your friends, your body language is so important. Your body language gives people big clues about how you feel about yourself, how you feel towards them and even what you’re thinking. Body Language for College Interviews, Work Experience Interviews and Work Experience

The most important thing is to understand and learn to be aware of the signals you could be giving out with your body language. There are simple everyday habits that you have that could maybe put off an interviewer. You may think that they are silly things that do not mean anything but the reality is they are so important; In a formal work or job interview setting, you might come across as uninterested or lacking in confidence if you have your hands in your pockets. In an interview keep your hands open, on the table and move them to help express what you are saying.

Sitting there with your chin in your hand pose makes you look like you are tired / well and truly bored. Checking your phone whilst you are talking to someone is a big mistake too. You might be listening, but to the person you're with it looks like you're not. Sit up straight and put your shoulders back, this pose shows you are paying attention.

It can be really tough sometimes but at work, school or in a job interview, try to always look at people when you are in a conversation. Keeping eye contact is an important part of showing that you are interested, enthusiastic and open. Crossing your arms can be an act of defiance be a sign that you are feeling fed up or you are in a bad mood. Crossed arms are as bad as having a sarcastic eye-roll. Try to avoid using this combination at work and interviews at all times..

Slouching in a chair or against a wall is comfy, but it can also make you seem moody, unapproachable or unmotivated. Keep an eye out for slouching and try to sit or stand up straight next time you do it. It doesn’t look good to anybody you are trying to impress professionally. The simplest way to show confidence and kindness is to smile and make eye contact with the person you're with. A simple smile can actually help you feel better and even up the mood of the person you’re with. It's also the best way of showing somebody that you're okay. Remember, you need to show these things, not just say them.