When it comes to interviews, the obvious focus is on what you say.

But there’s a quieter, equally important conversation taking place—one that doesn’t use words.

Non-verbal communication can either reinforce your confidence or quietly sabotage your efforts.

If you’ve overlooked this side of preparation, it’s time to rethink your approach.

1. Posture: confidence in your stance

The moment you walk into a room before any words are exchanged, your posture speaks for you. Standing tall with your shoulders relaxed and head held high projects confidence. A slouched posture or tentative step, however, signals unease or doubt.

Try this: walk into a room as if you already belong there. This mindset alone will make your posture more assured.

2. The eyes as a window

Eye contact is powerful. When done right, it can convey trust, attentiveness, and self-assurance. The mistake many make is either avoiding it altogether or holding it too long, making the encounter feel unnatural.

Golden rule: aim for consistent eye contact while allowing brief, natural breaks. It’s about connecting, not staring.

3. Smiling: the simple bridge

A well-timed smile is more than a courtesy; it’s an invitation to engage. A genuine smile shows enthusiasm, warmth, and confidence. On the other hand, a strained smile can come across as forced, signalling nerves or insincerity.

Think of this: smile when you greet, during moments that naturally feel positive, or when acknowledging the interviewer’s point.

4. Gestures: enhancing, not distracting

Hand gestures can emphasise your points and bring clarity to your answers. However, be cautious of excessive movement that can distract from your words, or crossed arms that may appear closed-off.

Tip: use your hands naturally, mirroring the tone of your conversation. If in doubt, rest them lightly in your lap or on the table.

5. Calm over fidgeting

Many don’t realise how much fidgeting can communicate. Tapping a foot, twirling a pen, or adjusting your chair too frequently tells the interviewer that you’re uncomfortable or anxious.

Remedy: practise mindful stillness. Record yourself in a mock interview to identify habits you may not notice.

6. The value of a pause

Silence doesn’t have to be an awkward void to fill. A thoughtful pause before answering can convey composure and serious consideration. Filling every second with words can seem rushed or unprepared.

Shift your perspective: let pauses work for you—they show you’re weighing your answer, not scrambling for words.

7. Your exit matters

Just as your entrance sets the stage, your exit leaves a lasting impression. A firm handshake, confident eye contact, and a genuine ‘thank you’ are simple yet powerful final notes. Don’t rush out; it can signal relief or unease.

Lasting thought: the final moments should reinforce the composed and confident candidate they’ve just met.

The unspoken decider

Your qualifications may open the door to an interview, but your non-verbal signals shape your perception of you as a potential fit.

Are they speaking the same language as your answers, or sending mixed messages?

Make sure your silent cues align with the image you want to project.

The goal? To let your confidence be seen as well as heard.