Finally, school draws to a close and summer employment begins. But first you must pass the interview process.

Most likely you were given job interview tips that include maintain eye contact, have a great handshake, and daunt a winning smile. While those are very important skills to entertain, here’s a TOP SECRET tip on how to make the most of the first 20 seconds of an interview from the book “The Definitive Book of Body Language” by Allan and Barbara Pease.

For your next interview, after you shake the interviewer’s hand give them 2-3 three seconds to give you a once over. Look down to adjust your seat, briefcase, or hang up your coat. Then comfortably look up.

Even in this day and age, male interviewers will check out a women’s overall presentation.  But female interviewers are even more more critical!  From a man’s hair to the back of his shoes… for every minor detail that a man forgot to fix, his female interviewer picked up on it.

Other Job Interview Tips:

1. Everyone’s In On It

From the time you enter the parking lot act as if everyone is in on the interview. When you meet the person at the front desk extend a confident handshake. If you are waiting on the interviewer, sit poised and patiently. The receptionist or secretary may seem like they are typing but they are watching. One employer we spoke to said they will ask their secretary for an assessment of the candidate. While you may debate its fairness the question is “Can that employer trust you as an employee when they are not around?”

2. Shaking Hands

This may seem redundant. However, there are different types of handshakes and ways you need to position yourself to deliver a powerful handshake. In fact, look at pictures of our world leaders and try to determine who is delivering the most powerful message. One way of gaining ground is to extend your hand while walking towards the other person. Then plant your feet firmly and slightly apart while matching their level of firmness.

3. Don’t hover

When asked to enter someone’s office, don’t hover in the doorway or softly apply a knock-knock gesture. You were invited in so walk in with confidence. Do not break your stride.

The bottom line, every part of your presentation for the interview has to be well planned and put together. If allowing the interviewer(s) time to give you the once over seems disturbing, remember interviewers are people too and 65% (number closely varies) of communication is non-verbal presentation. As for men… please shine your shoes both front and back! Your next job may depend on this.

For more job interview tips have a look at these articles: Breeze Through Your Next Phone Interview, 8 Tips for Nailing Your Job Interview, and Secrets to Securing a Job After Graduation.