You can have a perfectly manicured resume, a well-thought-out cover letter and a flashy suit, but if you don’t show confident body language, you might not get the job you want.

Don’t: Give a weak handshake. “The key to a good handshake is palm-to-palm contact. Slide your hand into the web of theirs, and lock thumbs with the hiring manager,” said Terri Heibert, branch manager of Chicago Title Company. 

Only apply as much pressure as they do. It’s probably best that you practice this, because first impressions are so important.

Don’t: Cross your arms. This can make you look uncomfortable or defensive. Since you shouldn’t be slouching, this could make the crossed arms look like an intimidation tactic.

Don’t: Fidget or play with your hair. It looks childish and can cause the hiring manager to be distracted.  When you fidget and avoid eye contact, it makes you seem disinterested and is a sign of anxiety.

Do: Smile. Also use positive gestures like nodding in moderation, so your interviewer isn’t wondering if your head is going to pop off. 

Do: Use open gestures. Sitting up straight or displaying your neck and stomach shows that you are comfortable and open. Avoid placing bags on your lap, which can lead people to believe you are setting up a barrier. When you move your arms while speaking, keep your gestures between your neck and your navel.

Do: Make your intentions clear. Have well-thought-out questions prepared for your interviewer, and make sure they know what you have planned. 

“Say things along the lines like, ‘Someday I would like to be able to move in your organization,’” Heibert said. That way they know you want to work for the company for a long time.

Keep these Do’s and Do not’s in mind, and you should give off an aura of confidence that will make you shine just as much as your spotless resume and cover letter. Nailed it.