What to do with your hands in an Interview

When you’re preparing for an interview, most of your focus goes into your resume, your answers, and your outfit. But there’s one subtle detail that can make or break your first impression: what you do with your hands.

Your hand gestures, positioning, and unconscious movements send powerful signals about your confidence, attitude, and honesty — often without you realising it. So, what should you do with your hands during an interview?

Let’s break it down.

What to Do With Your Hands in an Interview

1. Use Natural, Controlled Gestures

It’s okay — and even encouraged — to use your hands while speaking. Natural hand movements help convey enthusiasm, engagement, and clarity.

• Use open palms to show honesty and openness.

• Gesture when emphasising a point or listing ideas: e.g., “Firstly,” “Secondly,” “Lastly…”

• Keep gestures smooth and intentional — avoid flailing or exaggerated motions.

• Think of how a confident presenter talks — animated, but composed.

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2. Rest Them Calmly When Not Speaking

You don’t need to be gesturing all the time. When you’re not speaking or listening, rest your hands in a calm, composed position:

• On a table: Lightly fold or rest your hands flat.

• In your lap (if no table): Keep hands relaxed — don’t clench or hide them.

• Avoid crossing your arms or hiding your hands in your pockets. These actions can seem defensive, disinterested, or nervous.

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3. Hold a Pen or Folder (If Needed)

If you’re naturally fidgety or tend to feel anxious, holding a pen, notebook, or portfolio can help.

• It anchors your hands and gives you something to focus on.

• Bonus: Having a notebook also makes it easy to jot down key information, which shows attentiveness.

 Just remember: No clicking pens, tapping, flipping pages, or gripping too tightly. It should calm you, not distract you.

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What to Avoid — Common Hand Mistakes