Your Body Language Can Cost You An Interview!
Your Body Language Can Cost You An Interview!
A recent survey of Canadian hiring managers identified “shifty eyes” or a lack of eye contact during an interview as their number one professional turn off, and the top reason why they would be less likely to hire an individual. Other common mistakes made by candidates were: a failure to smile, a weak handshake and bad posture.
Most Canadians value direct eye contact during conversations. This is considered a sign of interest in the conversation and demonstrates respect for the person speaking. In Canada, downcast eyes will usually be perceived as a sign of sadness, shame, lack of confidence or embarrassment. Individuals who do not make eye contact when speaking may also be considered shifty or dishonest.
In some cultures, people shake hands quite softly. However, in Canada, handshakes are an important introductory ritual in many business and social contexts. Both men and women are generally expected to give a firm handshake. For both genders, a ‘weak’ handshake may be construed as a sign of weakness, shyness or anxiety, and tends to generate less favourable impressions.
In Canada’s highly competitive job market, you will not have a second chance to make a good first impression, so remember to pay attention to what your body language is saying about you!
