Tip For Acing An Interview: Mirroring

 Tip For Acing An Interview: Mirroring

Body Posture

Review body posture, which may include sitting upright, leaning forward, and placing hands on the table. Wait at least 10 seconds after observing before making adjustments to your own body posture to match.

Hand Gestures

Watch how your contact makes hand gestures when talking and, if applicable, do the same when it is your turn to talk.

Voice

Review the tone, volume and rate of speech when your contact speaks and apply the same when you are responding with comment.

Head Movement

Look out for head gestures such as a nod or tilt of the head and respond accordingly.

Facial Expressions

Facial expressions may include a raised eyebrow or smile. Make a connection with your own facial expression to exemplify that you understand what the other person is saying and that you are engaged in the conversation.

Be careful though. If mirroring is not done sincerely, you can come off as dishonest and it can ruin your chance of making a positive impression. Take care in applying the tips above and avoid mirroring negative connotations in body language. Negative connotations may include crossing arms over the chest, looking at the clock or watch, leaning the chin on the hand, yawning and turning the body sideways.

Mirroring is a technique that is effective, easy to apply and offers a simple way for you to establish a connection in new ways by reinforcing perceptions and physical behaviors. Apply the technique during a job interview, networking, and many other instances in life to help build rapport and relationships with important constituents.