Due to the pandemic, several conventional work practices have come under alterations, the most dominant one being a shift to digitalization. This affects Human Resources and Recruiters tremendously as many companies are choosing to conduct recruitment campaigns virtually till time unforeseen. Conducting interviews in-person is difficult to begin with already. Therefore, conducting them virtually can seem daunting to many. As a recruiter or hiring manager, it can help tremendously to have an advantage to detect and win over refined talents. Being more aware of body language cues or nonverbal communication can certainly help leaders communicate better, have control of how they come across and improve their analytical skills even with the limitation of remote interviews. This is why it’s important to invest in improving your body-language during virtual meetings

In general, the code of body language dictates that the eyes are the most important form of communication. It may feel awkward, but eye contact is equally important during online interviews. Try to stop from looking at yourself, or at other parts of your screen and instead focus on the conversation itself. This will show that you are focused, observant and attentive to what the candidate is saying, thereby improving their motivation to improve. In addition to this, leaning forward when the candidate is speaking expresses your interest and focus as well, as this will mimic the natural reaction.

However, overtly expressing your intrigue can be detrimental to the environment of the interview. Being overeager can ensue discrepancies such as giving the candidate false hope, a sense of unnecessary superiority and so on. In contrast, crossing your arms or legs can give off the impression that you are guarded and rude. Therefore, in such cases, nodding in agreement or approval is a natural and balanced response. Additionally, it shows that you are on track and reassures the candidate as well. Another way to do this through body-language is to sit up straight and maintain good body posture. This also shows that you are to be taken seriously, and are professional.

Lastly, fidgeting or playing with objects is a dead giveaway of nervousness. It is extremely difficult to be conscious of this action, however it is necessary to be aware of how you come across at all times. It shows the inability to focus completely in stressful situations, unprofessionalism and sometimes disinterest.

Several body language cues occur unconsciously, which is why seasoned professionals are proficient in it, and can also detect implications of other’s body languages. To improve, practicing in-front of a mirror can allow one to detect their own ticks, or giveaways, and improve them gradually. Recording interviews and reviewing them after similarly can serve the same purpose. Therefore, we see how improving body-language during virtual meetings can be done successfully with little effort.

References :

1. 7 Body Language Tips to Improve Your Virtual Interviewing Skills, May 14, 2020, Inc.