Body language can say a lot while you are in an interview. It can convey confidence, interest, focus, attentiveness & enthusiasm if conveyed correctly. Here are a few tips to help you with your body language while appearing for an interview from top MBA colleges in Kolkata.
1. Entry
When you enter smile & greet the interviewer. If he/she puts out a hand, grasp his hand in a firm, confident handshake & make eye contact.
2. Posture
When offered a seat, sit upright but not too stiffly in your chair. Once the interview begins, relax & lean slightly forward––it will convey you are interested and involved in the discussion. Do not slouch or hunch your shoulders. Good posture reflects energy as well as self-control.
While talking keep your hands loosely clasped on your lap. Do not cross your hands in front of you, as it will convey a closed & defensive attitude, besides appearing unfriendly & disengaged. Avoid fidgeting or using exaggerated gestures.
Feet should be kept flat on the floor or crossed at the ankles, for a more formal & professional look. Never shake your legs, as it can be distracting, as well as indicating you are nervous & uncomfortable.
3. Eye contact
When talking with the interviewer, maintain eye contact for brief periods. Do not look blank or stare. In a panel interview, look directly to the person asking the question, with a periodic glances at the other panelists. Show enthusiasm by keeping on interest expression. You may nod & make positive gestures in moderation.
4. Say Good Bye gracefully
Stand up, smile & thank the interviewer before you leave. If you have exchanged a handshake when you entered, make sure your good-bye handshake is as confident as it was when you entered. This confident gesture will convey that you have completed your management course in Kolkata from one of the top institutes.
Tips on Grooming
Your appearance is an important aspect of the first impression you create, so it is important to create a positive first impression. The interviewer only has a limited time to short-list candidates.
Women
• Hair should be clean & neatly combed. If you have long hair tie it back neatly or knot it into a bun.
• Nails should be trimmed.
• Use a light perfume or cologne.
• Clothes that fit well and in neutral colours are a good choice. If want to wear a western outfit, select colours like navy blue or grey for a suit with, a soft white or ivory shirt or blouse. This works well for a formal, smart look.
If you prefer ethnic wear, a salwar-suit or sari will be fine. Choose pastel shades for daytime wear.
Use minimal makeup & limited jewellery.
• Nail Polish- Light colour and neatly done. Nail Polish should not be chipped.
• Wear something that you are comfortable with. Not necessary that you have to western outfit or sari if you cannot carry it off well
• The dress that you wear should be coordinated. For example, the western outfit should not be worn with sandals.
• No heavy suits or dress up saris
Men
• Be cleanly shaven––there should be no stubble.
• A short, conservative haircut will do. If you have a moustache, make sure it is well trimmed.
• A dark two-piece suit in navy, grey or dark brown colour.
• A long sleeved shirt in cream, light blue, or pinstripes on white and a conservative tie.
• Black/Brown belt.
• Dark socks with dark polished shoes.
