Will Body Language Be Important in a Telephone Interview?

Body language is one way that we communicate with others. Without considering our body language, we may fail to identify how those with whom we are speaking perceive us. It may seem that body language would not be important in a telephone interview since we, the interviewee, cannot be seen. However, what we do with our body can certainly affect the quality of our interview. It can also affect how we feel during the interview.

Think about a time when you were on a phone call and did not feel listened to. The other person may have responded to what you were saying, but maybe you could tell that he or she was distracted or engaged in another activity at the time. Maybe you felt that, although the person’s words indicated that he or she was concerned, you could picture the other person looking at his phone, or watching television, or reading something online.

During a telephone interview (and any important telephone conversation), we should pay attention to what we are doing with our body. Where are we looking? What is our posture? If we are folding our arms, are we feeling guarded and communicating that we are closed-off to the interviewer? If we are leaning in towards the phone, on the other hand, are we showing interest, active listening, and openness? We should also consider where we are at when we are participating in the interview. Are we sitting on a surface that allows us to sit comfortably but maintain good posture? Are we in a space that is free from distractions? Even wearing professional clothes can make a difference in the way we behave on the telephone interview.

Body language is not just important because it will help determine how others perceive our words. It also helps us to control our feelings. By sitting up straight, leaning in, and keeping our posture open, we can actually make ourselves feel more confident.

Again, picture yourself interviewing someone on the phone. Do you think you could surmise what the interviewee is doing with his or her body? You probably could have some idea. Being aware of what we are doing with our body, and understanding how it can affect what and how we say on the phone, can make a significant difference in determining the outcome of a telephone interview.