In any face-to-face communications, less than half of the total meaning is conveyed by spoken words.  In fact, your impact is subconsciously measured as follows:

• Words                                             7%
• Vocal tone and volume                     38%
• Facial expression and body language 55%

Therefore, when in an interview it is important to remember what message you want to present and how you are doing it, through your words, tone and body language.

Throughout your interview you will need to create the most possible favourable self-image. Non-verbal cues that also include facial expressions, posture, eye contact, and hand and body movement, carry a lot of information - such as:

• Are you confident?
• Are you interested?
• Are you at ease with others?
• Are you sincere?
• Are you adaptable?
• Are you sensitive to others?

You can demonstrate confidence and comfort with your surroundings by offering a firm handshake, smile sincerely, make eye contact and let the interviewer know you are glad to be there both verbally and non-verbally.

Positive body language actions include:

• Maintaining eye contact
• Occasionally nodding the head in agreement
• Smiling
• Leaning towards the speaker

Negative body language actions include:

• Looking away or turning away from the speaker
• Closing your eyes
• Yawning excessively
• Slouching
• Frowning

Facial expressions and eye contact plays a very strong role in conveying sincerity, credibility, and trustworthiness.  Every other aspect of a meeting or interview can be going well, but if you don’t maintain a fair amount of eye contact, you may create the impression that you are uneasy, or uninterested.

The point is that you should be aware of how you are presenting yourself, and you should strive to present a comfortable, self-confident appearance.  But there’s no point in trying to remake yourself into something you are not, or act out of character to impress employers.