Worried About Looking Down in Interviews? Does It Affect How You're Perceived?

Hi friends, during my recent interview, I looked down before answering the questions for a minute (only to recollect the answers) and then answered by looking directly at the interviewer. Though most of the answers were correct, I now feel uncomfortable due to my habit of looking down. Is this in any way going to affect my performance or indicate something to the interviewer? Your comments and advice, please.

Thank you.

From a body language point of view, it might not have been a good indication. Since you have answered everything correctly, the interviewer would go by your answers rather than body language or mannerism. After all, all of us have some body movements that may not be appropriate from a body language observation.

Regards,
V. Raghunathan

In behavioral interviewing, when behavioral questions are asked, candidates take time to think and then answer. During the thinking period, there is every possibility of them looking down. However, this need not be construed as negative body language. No person can keep looking towards interviewers when he/she is thinking of something.

I would not rate your behavior as negative; however, nothing can be said of the persons who are too obsessed with the body language of the candidate rather than the quality of the answers.

Thanks,

Regards,
Dinesh Divekar
[Phone Number Removed For Privacy Reasons]

Understanding Body Language in Interviews

Body language indicates the physical actions or reactions of a person in response to certain inner behaviors or thought processes. These can be positive or negative signs of certain personality traits. Thought processes during an interview can also result in some kind of involuntary movements.

In your case, I would consider that you think first and then act, which is always good. So, no worries; you have all the chances to be successful.

I appreciate Mr. Indrajit Patil's comment.

Experts have given valuable opinions on your query. You have not revealed your age, the post you interviewed for, and the feedback you received after the interview. However, irrespective of the post, if the employer is focusing on tech/academic skills, then body language may not matter as much. But there are certain positions that might require consideration of body language as well, such as front office roles, sales and account executives, managers, and hospitality/stewards. In these cases, one's mannerisms and body language can also make a difference. In your situation, I agree with the opinions of others.

All the best.

It is surprising that you are sensitive to looking down once. I have been on board to interview and have realized that it is not your looking down but the answer and the voice in which you replied that mattered. In no way would looking down affect you as long as you have answered well.

Body Language Considerations

Now, regarding body language, who is interested in every gesture? There are only one or two typical movements that show you are not prepared or are not speaking facts that matter.

Corrected Text:

A ton of thanks to Raghunathan, Dinesh, Indrajit Patel, Bijay, S. Kumar, and Narender. The interview was conducted for the SBI Assistant Post. I performed well except for this looking-down mannerism. The final results are expected within 10 days.

Once again, I thank everyone for their valuable comments.

- Idhayam