Part 2: Tips for Interview - Non-Verbal Preparation

 In a previous blog, I wrote about verbal tips to practice when interviewing. However, communication is displayed both verbally and non-verbally. Here are a few tips for non-verbal interview prep! 

Eye Contact

Eye contact is one of the most important aspects of an interview. It shows you are trustworthy and you can show empathy through eye contact. However, you don’t want your eye contact to be so strong it appears you’re staring into the judges soul. Practice talking to yourself in the mirror and making eye contact with yourself. Study the way your eyes look and how often you are engaging your eyes and facial expressions. It sounds silly, but it really helps. If talking to yourself seems weird, next time you are talking on the phone look into the mirror when speaking.

Body Language

Sit up straight with your shoulders back. Position yourself toward the edge of the chair and cross your legs at your ankles. Crossing your legs at your ankles gives your body a more elegant look and vibe than crossing your legs. Place your hands in your lap. It is ok to talk with your hands, but keep it to a minimum. You don’t want your hand gestures to be distracting that the judge veers their attention away from your face and what you have to say. Practice telling your story with your body language, lean forward a little towards the interviewer so you appear interested and engaged. You want to appear poised, as in confident and comfortable. If you can display this quality it can help control nervous tics and behaviors and you’ll look like you’re ready to take on the world. The more practice you have in mock interviews, the more you’ll be able to look naturally poised.

Always remember that image the judge has when they first see you; take their point of view into consideration. If you slouch, are sloppy, or don’t acknowledge eye contact, it won’t matter how well you answer the questions. 

Always remember to smile, it is your best accessory every single time! 

Thanks for reading. I’d love to hear from you: missintl2020@gmail.com Stay happy, healthy, and grounded Mind. Heart. Body.

Megan Vladic

Miss International 2020