What are the best body language techniques for supervisors to use in interviews?

1 Establish eye contact

Eye contact is one of the most basic and powerful forms of nonverbal communication. It shows that you are attentive, interested, and confident. It also helps you build rapport and trust with the candidates, and gauge their reactions and emotions. However, eye contact should not be too intense or prolonged, as it can make the candidates feel uncomfortable or intimidated. Aim for a natural and balanced eye contact, and avoid staring, blinking, or looking away too often.

2 Smile and nod

Smiling and nodding are simple but effective ways to show that you are friendly, positive, and engaged. They can also encourage the candidates to open up and share more about themselves, and make them feel more relaxed and comfortable. Smiling and nodding can also signal that you agree or approve of what the candidates are saying, or that you want them to continue or elaborate. However, be careful not to overdo it, as it can seem insincere or patronizing. Smile and nod when appropriate, and vary your facial expressions and gestures to match the tone and content of the conversation.

3 Lean forward

Leaning forward slightly is another way to show that you are interested and involved in the interview. It indicates that you are listening actively and attentively, and that you are curious and eager to learn more about the candidates. It can also create a sense of closeness and connection, and make the candidates feel more valued and respected. However, leaning forward too much or too often can invade the candidates' personal space, or make you appear too aggressive or desperate. Lean forward moderately, and maintain a comfortable and respectful distance.

4 Mirror the candidates

Mirroring is a subtle but powerful technique that involves mimicking the candidates' body language, such as their posture, gestures, facial expressions, or tone of voice. It can help you create a rapport and harmony with the candidates, and show that you are on the same wavelength. It can also make the candidates feel more at ease and confident, and increase their likability and trustworthiness. However, mirroring should not be too obvious or mechanical, as it can seem unnatural or manipulative. Mirror the candidates subtly and selectively, and avoid copying anything that is inappropriate or negative.

5 Use open gestures

Open gestures are those that involve spreading your arms or legs, or showing your palms or chest. They can convey a sense of openness, honesty, and confidence, and show that you are receptive and approachable. They can also encourage the candidates to be more candid and expressive, and share their opinions and ideas. However, open gestures should not be too exaggerated or dominant, as they can seem arrogant or overbearing. Use open gestures moderately, and avoid crossing your arms or legs, or hiding your hands or face.