Establishing good rapport or making a connection is vitally important during a job interview and it may make the difference between getting an offer or not.
When used correctly, the technique of mirroring can be a very effective interview tool and will assist you in making that connection.
Mirroring is about observing the other person’s body language; this includes posture, hand gestures, facial expressions, tone, volume and rate of speech, and applying it to your body language. If done in a sincere and natural manner it can be highly efficient.
The following tips can help you to observe body language and apply mirroring subtly.
Body Posture
Observe the body posture of the person conducting the interview, which may include sitting upright, leaning forward and placing hands on the table. Wait 10 seconds after observing before making adjustments to your own body posture to match their actions.
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 your comment.
Head Movement
Look out for head gestures such as a nod or tilt of the head and respond by mirroring these movements.
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 be seen to be mimicking the other person.
Mirroring is a technique that is effective, easy to apply and offers a simple way for you to establish a connection with the person with whom you are speaking.
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