In-Person Interview
| Element | Do | Don't |
|---|
| Handshake | Firm, 2-3 seconds, web-to-web | Limp, crushing, or lingering |
| Posture | Sit forward slightly — engaged but relaxed | Slouching or rigidly upright |
| Eye Contact | 60-70% of time — look away naturally | Constant staring or avoiding eyes |
| Hands | Visible, gesturing naturally while speaking | Crossed arms, fidgeting, hidden hands |
Virtual Interview
| Element | Setup |
|---|
| Camera | At eye level — laptop on stand/books. Look at camera, not screen |
| Lighting | Light in front of you, not behind — window-facing ideal |
| Background | Clean, neutral — no distracting posters, mess, or backlighting |
| Audio | Test beforehand — quiet room, close windows, mute notifications |
Vocal Presence
| Technique | Effect |
|---|
| Pause before answering | Shows thoughtfulness, reduces filler words (um, uh) |
| Vary pitch and pace | Monotone = disengaged. Emphasis on key points signals confidence |
| End statements down | Rising inflection sounds like a question — end declaratively |
Reading the Room
| Signal | Meaning | Your Response |
|---|
| Interviewer leans in | Engaged, interested | Continue, add detail |
| Looks at watch/clock | Time pressure or disengagement | Wrap up, ask: "should I go deeper or move on?" |
| Crosses arms | May be defensive or just comfortable | Check your tone — ask open questions |
Pro Tip: Your body language is speaking before you open your mouth. Research shows 55% of first impressions come from visual cues, 38% from tone, and only 7% from words.