Influence of nonverbal communication and rater proximity on impressions and decisions in simulated employment interviews

Abstract

Examined the influences of nonverbal communication and different methods of assessing a job applicant. 72 female Ss saw either an immediate or nonimmediate applicant while serving as an interviewer, observer, or television observer. (Immediacy was manipulated through several nonverbal channels of communication: eye contact, smiling, posture, interpersonal distance, and body orientation.) Both observers were yoked to the interviewer. Results clearly indicate that nonverbal communication had a significant effect on interview impressions and subsequent decisions. Further, several self-report measures suggest different degrees of involvement as a function of the rater's proximity. Implications for future research and novel interviewing techniques are discussed. (15 ref) (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)