Acting seems just about as far from business as you can get, but on the contrary the two disciplines are closely related. Acting itself is a business and actors have to essentially sell themselves. An actor, by trade is a communicator trained to have a pleasant appearance and voice. Everything in the actor training toolbox lends itself to interviewing skills. Effective communication is key to any interaction -- professional or not. Here are some things I learned in acting class that everyone should keep in mind for their next interview.

1. Breathe

Seriously. You would be so surprised how often people don't do this when they are in a stressful situation. Breathing is vital. It grounds you and supports your voice. It also is what relaxes you. If you don't continue to breath properly your voice will sound strained and you are more likely to carry tension in your shoulders. You'll look and sound stressed out! Breathe and you will appear more calm and collected (and by extension a much better hire).

2. Posture

Learn what good posture is for you. You don't want to look tense or as if you have a spine made out of some inorganic material, but you do want to stand up tall. The image I find most helpful to picture is that your head is floating upwards. Relax your shoulders down and don't lift your chin, but rather the back of your neck so that the top of your head is parallel to the ceiling. This will help to make you appear tall and confident without looking stiff.

3. Eye Contact

Make eye contact with whomever you are speaking to. This is so important. Making eye contact with someone establishes that you are trying to communicate with them. It allows you to check in with them as well as give you a way of making sure that they are following what you are saying. Speaking of that--

4. Look to the other person's reaction

What is your "scene partner" doing? Are they paying attention to you? Are they pleased? Are they upset? What does their body language say? Don't stare, but try to pick up on subtle hints. Your goal is to show them that you are a good candidate for the position -- look for the completion of your goal in them and adjust accordingly.

5. Listen

This is hugely important. In situations like this we tend to get so wrapped up in what we are going to say next that we stop listening to the other person entirely. Stop mentally multitasking and really listen to the other person. Effective communication goes both ways and if you listen, chances are you'll have a better answer to the question.