Anyone who’s ever worked as a hiring manager or HR person will tell you that while the resumes, cover letters and references you give them are important, when it comes down to the interview, they most often go with their gut. That gut reaction is the result of many factors, including what you say and how you’ve presented yourself on paper. But there’s one silent factor that might make or break your job interview — your body language. Nonverbal communication speaks volumes about you to interviewers, telling them things about you as an employee that are hard to capture on paper. Here’s what you want your body language to say to employers, and how to say it.

I’m Approachable

Having a friendly, open demeanor is important to almost every job you’ll ever apply for. It makes you present a better face to customers and clients, and makes you more approachable to your fellow employees. So what nonverbal signs show you’re approachable? A genuine smile is a great sign, and so is a firm – but not crushing – handshake. When you sit down, angle yourself toward your interviewers, and avoid throwing up invisible barriers like crossing your arms across your chest, clutching papers to chest, or hiding your mouth or eyes with your hands.

I’m Trustworthy

Employers want to know you’re the real deal. The best way to show your sincerity and trustworthiness is by being genuine during your interview; remember — your actions speak as loudly as your words. A study performed at Northwestern University found that patients had more trust in doctors who made and maintained eye contact than with those who did not. It’s something hiring managers have known for years — making frequent eye contact shows you are engaged and open to the conversation.

I’m One of You

HR and hiring managers won’t tell you this, but they’re more likely to hire you if they know you’ll fit into the workplace with as little adjustment as possible. How do you convey your adaptability? Mirror your interviewers. “Nod to show interest, smile when she talks about good news, frown when she talks about bad news,” writes inc.com’s Rhett Power. “Make sure that you are empathetic and engaged.” This kind of engaged empathy demonstrates to interviewers you’re able to understand and react accordingly to situations you’ll face in the workforce. It’s nothing you can put on paper, but it makes a great impression.

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