Power pose your way to interview success
4 min read | Hays Experts | Report | Job searching | Interview advice
Feeling nervous before a job interview? You’re not alone. But what if a simple change in posture could help boost your confidence and performance?
Power posing - adopting expansive, confident body language - has been shown to reduce stress and increase self-assurance. In this article, we explore how power poses can help you prepare mentally and physically for interviews, and how to combine them with other proven techniques from our Ultimate Interview Guide.
What is power posing - and does it really work?
Power posing involves standing or sitting in a posture that conveys confidence, even if you don’t feel it.
Examples include:
- Standing tall with hands on hips (“Wonder Woman” pose)
- Sitting upright with arms relaxed and open
- Leaning slightly forward while maintaining eye contact
Studies suggest that adopting these poses for just two minutes can:
- Lower cortisol (stress hormone)
- Increase testosterone (confidence hormone)
- Improve performance in high-pressure situations
When should I use power poses before an interview?
Try power posing:
- Before entering the building – in a quiet space or restroom
- During your commute – visualise success while holding a confident posture
- Right before the interview – take a moment to breathe deeply and stand tall
How does body language affect interview outcomes?
Your non-verbal cues speak volumes. Interviewers notice:
- Posture and openness
- Eye contact and facial expressions
- Hand gestures and fidgeting
Tips for confident body language:
- Sit upright with shoulders relaxed
- Rest hands naturally (avoid crossing arms)
- Smile genuinely and maintain eye contact
- Avoid touching your face or hair
What else can I do to prepare mentally for interviews?
Power posing is just one tool. Our Ultimate Interview Guide covers:
- How to research your employer
- What questions to expect - and ask
- How to use the STAR technique for competency answers
- What to do after the interview
Quick confidence checklist
Before your next interview:
- Practice power poses for 2 minutes
- Review your CV and LinkedIn profile
- Prepare answers using the STAR method
- Dress professionally and arrive early
- Use open, relaxed body language
Discover the full guide to interview success
Access the guide to Ultimate Interview Guide today to complete your interview with confidence.
Ready for more? Why not also read our leading recruiters' essential tips to building your personal brand.
If you need any guidance on this (or any aspect of your job search) then find your nearest office and get in touch with a recruitment consultant.
About this author
Hays Experts – Your Career Partner
Established in 1968, Hays brings almost six decades of experience in helping professionals discover what’s next in their careers. With a global network of over 10,000 recruitment experts – including 1,800 in the UK&I – we operate across 31 countries and 21 specialisms to offer personalised guidance, career advice, and access to opportunities that match your skills and ambitions. Whether you're exploring your next role or planning a long-term move, we’re committed to supporting your career journey.