Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote, “What you do speak so loudly that I cannot hear what you say.”

The first time I recall expressing body language was as a young boy, I have just rolled my eyes at something my mom had said. Oddly enough this was also the first time I realized that there were repercussions for expressing certain types of body language. That “pop on the head” has been a small but constant reminder to be mindful of my actions. Ok, enough about me, let’s talk about “body language” as it relates to employment.

I can assure you that from your very first contact with an employer, whether you are just checking on open positions, picking up an application or following up, you are being observed by someone. This might be a cashier, secretary, sales associate or even a customer. Each of these is potentially as important as meeting with the owner or manager themselves. I can’t count the times that a hiring manager has used information from other employee(s) to assist them in their hiring decision.

So remember, smile, no matted what information you’ve just received. Head up, back straight, look them in the eye; you are being interviewed even if it wasn’t scheduled. A potential employer is always looking to see if you will be a good fit for their company so remember “actions sometimes speak louder than words.”