Your interview body language, from your handshake to your posture to how fast you walk into the room, shapes how the panel reads you before you have answered a single question, so it is worth preparing alongside your actual answers.
Second only to receiving your exam results, interviewing for a university scholarship is arguably the most nerve-racking part of the process. You have likely rehearsed your answers and your introduction – but body language matters just as much, from how you walk into the room to where you place your arms.Â
Body language matters because interview panels form impressions within the first few moments – before you have even answered a single question. Poor posture, a weak handshake, or crossed arms can undercut even a strong verbal answer.
This is not about performing confidence you do not feel. It is more about making sure your body is not accidentally undercutting a good answer you have not even had the chance to give.
From handshake to posture and energy, here are some body language tips to keep in mind when attending a scholarship interview.
As one of the first interactions you will have in interviews, a handshake is definitely worth getting right. Go for a firm and brief handshake, and avoid one that feels limp or forceful.
There is no need to stare to show that you are paying attention, natural eye contact is enough. If holding someone’s gaze feels too intense, look between their eyes and mouth instead – chances are, they would not even notice it.
When seated, keep your shoulders relaxed and let your back rest against the chair instead of perching on the edge. You want to avoid sinking so far back into the chair that you start slouching.
Just like how you would show interest when speaking to a friend, a gentle nod shows you are actively paying attention to the conversation. There is no need to constantly do it, just enough to look like you are present and not mentally rehearsing for the next answer.
Walk in at an unhurried, natural pace – like you are walking to class knowing you are on time. That is the pace you want to keep when walking into the room.Â
Smile as you enter the room, during lighter moments in the conversation, and again as you take your leave. It shows the panel that you are approachable and receptive to the conversation without saying a word.
You should match the panel’s energy as it helps turn the interview into a two-way conversation rather than an interrogation, though it does take some quick observation skills to pick up on the panellists’ tone early.
Feeling nervous? The interview panel probably expects you to be. The trick is to stop those nerves from turning into habits that distract from your answers.
Crossing your arms in a interview is bad as even if it might give you a sense of comfort when you are in an awkward situation, in it can make you appear closed off and defensive.
To avoid crossing your arms in the interview and looking unprofessional, relax your arms and place them loosely on your lap. You could also use your hands in purposeful gestures as you talk, or leave them clasped on your lap or lightly at the edge of the table.
In an interview setting, harmless habits like adjusting your hair, touching your face or bouncing your leg may indicate nervousness or boredom.
That pen you keep clicking? Put it down or grab onto it without making any sounds. Alternatively, rest your palms on your lap to avoid unnecessary gestures that don’t add value to your body language. Keep your feet planted flat on the ground at the same time so that you avoid shaking legs or feet.
Rushing through your answer is another dead giveaway of how nervous you are. Moreover, the panel may not be able to catch the important and useful details about yourself, and may not ask you to repeat. That means, you end up losing the chance of proving your capabilities when you could.
Make a conscious effort to slow down – especially on your first answer – and the rest of the interview should follow that pace. It helps to practise controlled breathing before the interview so that it’s easier for you to steady your nerves and speak at a calm pace.
Preparing for a scholarship interview requires more than just memorising and reciting lines. Being aware of your interview body language and correcting it quickly is what makes sure your answers land the way you meant them to.
Just starting your scholarship journey? Check out our other interview tips, or go ahead and browse scholarships you are eligible for.
