How Important is Body Language During an Interview?

Body language can often be more important than the words you say during a media interview.

Perhaps the most common mistake that people make when they do television interviews is not looking at the reporter. The person being interviewed should look at the reporter the entire time they're being asked a question and most of the time when they are giving their answer. Looking the reporter in the eye gives a strong impression on the viewer that you are telling the truth and have confidence.

There's nothing wrong with looking away for a moment or two when you are giving your answer to the reporter, but don't look down because it makes you look guilty. Look to the side, or look up. It also never hurts to smile when you can. It doesn’t work for every story, but a smile or a grin as you speak is all part of body language.

Using your hands properly is also important. Hands give your voice rhythm and cadence, so they should be used in any interview, especially for TV. People get worried because they talk a lot with their hands, meaning their hands go all over the place. That's fine, as long as they don't get too high and into the TV shot. Don't forget, in most cases you’ll only be shot from the shoulders up on TV.

I find that men are far worse than women in using their hands during an interview. They start by sticking them into their pockets. One hand into a pocket is ok, but two is one too many. It looks sloppy. Whatever you do, don't clasp your hands in front of you at waist level. I call it "the soccer penalty kick" position and it doesn't look good. If your hands are at your sides you can use them to help you communicate.

We are all the most sensitive about the front of our bodies from the knees to the neck, so keep your body open. Don’t hold your hands in front of you because it makes you look closed and stiff. Use your hands as you speak and when you have your palms up it will give the impression you’re honest and have nothing to hide.

Whatever you do, don’t clasp your hands behind you as you speak. It pulls on your clothes and makes you look like a “choirboy” instead of a confident media spokesperson.

Posture is also important. It’s good to do most media interviews standing and when you do, make sure that you’re standing tall with your shoulders back. Anyone who has good posture, looks at the reporter and they speak, and uses their hands effectively will look totally different than somebody who doesn’t.

Don’t forget, the person watching the interview on TV may not remember your name, or what you said, but they will remember how you made them feel, or what impression you gave them. That’s why body language speaks volumes.

Next Question: Is It Best to Stand or Sit During a Media Interview?

If you have a question you can’t find an answer to,

just send me and email and I would be happy to give you answer.