How to Nail Your Job Interview — And Let Your Body Do Some of the Talking

Let’s paint a picture. Two candidates, same role, same qualifications. Emma and Jack. On paper? Level playing field. But in the interview room? One walked out with the offer. The other walked out wondering what went wrong.

What tipped the scale? Not just words — it was the way they carried themselves.

Emma’s Quiet Confidence

Emma didn’t just prepare her answers — she prepared her presence. She walked into the room with open posture, a steady gaze, and the kind of calm energy that made people want to lean in. She listened like it mattered (because it did), nodded at the right moments, and didn’t fidget or glance at her phone.

Her handshake was firm, not forceful. Her eye contact was balanced — direct, but not intimidating. She mirrored the interviewers' energy without even realising it, creating connection without saying a word. That’s the magic of body language — it speaks volumes, even when you’re silent.

Jack’s Slippery Slope

Jack, on the other hand, slouched into his seat like it was his couch. He avoided eye contact, folded his arms across his chest, and tapped his fingers on the table when questions got tricky. His words said he was keen, but his body said he’d rather be anywhere else.

He didn’t mean to sabotage his chances — he just didn’t realise that interviews start the second you walk in the door. And when your body language doesn't match your message, people stop listening to the words.

 

Body Language Tips That Actually Work

(With thanks to body language specialist Scott Taylor, whose TikTok channel @itsscotttaylorofficial breaks this down brilliantly.)

1. Own the First Impression

Scott says the first few seconds of an interaction can make or break the rest of it. When you enter the room, keep your shoulders back, chin parallel to the floor, and arms relaxed by your sides. Walk in with purpose — not arrogance — and be the first to offer a polite, steady handshake.

2. Anchor Yourself

Don’t flail. Sit upright with both feet planted on the ground and hands resting loosely on your lap or the table. This creates a sense of grounded confidence. Avoid crossing your arms — it creates a barrier. Keep your posture open and inviting.

3. Use Eye Contact to Connect — Not Intimidate

According to Scott, good eye contact shows confidence and trustworthiness. Hold eye contact while you’re speaking, and briefly glance away when you’re listening to avoid staring. Think engaged, not intense.

4. Mirror the Energy in the Room

Mirroring is a powerful way to build rapport. Subtly match the tone, tempo, and gestures of your interviewer. If they’re upbeat and expressive, meet them there. If they’re calm and deliberate, lean into that rhythm. Don’t mimic — just match the vibe.

5. Keep Your Hands in the Game

Use hand gestures when you speak — it makes you seem more passionate and authentic. Just don’t overdo it. Controlled, purposeful movement reinforces your message. Fidgeting, on the other hand, signals nerves or distraction. Practice calm, clear gestures beforehand.

Four Non-Negotiables to Nail the Interview

1. Do Your Research
   Know the company, its people, and its purpose. This lets you tailor your answers with confidence and clarity.
   
   

2. Tell Compelling Stories
   Don’t just list tasks — show how you handled problems, worked with people, or turned a challenge into a win.
   
   

3. Align Your Value
   Frame everything around what you can bring to them. Not what you want from them.
   
   

4. Match Your Body to Your Message
   Your posture, gestures, and facial expressions should back up your words. When they do, you feel authentic — and others feel it too.
   
   

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, interviews aren’t about being perfect — they’re about being present. Be someone they can trust, someone they can picture working beside when the pressure’s on and the deadlines loom.

Because the truth is, your body speaks even when your mouth is shut. So make sure it’s saying the right things.

Want more tips on showing up with confidence? Follow Scott Taylor on TikTok @itsscotttaylorofficial — he’s the real deal when it comes to mastering your presence without becoming someone you’re not.