English for Job Interviews: Speak with Confidence and Get Hired!

 


You’ve found a job you want.
You’ve submitted your resume.
Now comes the most important part: the interview.

But how do you answer questions clearly and confidently in English—especially if it’s not your first language?

As a TESOL-certified tutor with over 11 years of teaching experience, I am helping international job seekers get ready to speak professionally in interviews, improve their vocabulary, and sound natural under pressure.

Let’s explore what you’ll need—and how to prepare.

 Why Strong Interview English Matters

Even if you have the right skills for the job, the way you communicate can make or break the interview.

Employers look for:

  • Confidence

  • Clear communication

  • Understanding of workplace culture

  • Professional tone

Learning how to speak English specifically for job interviews can help you stand out from other candidates.

 Common English Interview Questions (And How to Answer)

Here are a few questions you’ll likely hear—and what to practice:

1. “Tell me about yourself.”

 Focus on your experience and goals, not your whole life story.
“I’m a customer service professional with 5 years of experience helping clients solve problems and improve satisfaction.”

2. “Why do you want to work here?”

 Show that you understand the company.
“I admire your focus on sustainability and teamwork, and I’d love to contribute to your mission.”

3. “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”

 Be honest but strategic.
“I’m very organized and always meet deadlines. One weakness I’m working on is public speaking—I’ve been practicing by taking workshops.”

4. “Tell me about a challenge you faced at work.”

 Use the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result.
“At my last job, I had to solve a scheduling conflict for a team project. I coordinated with all departments and helped deliver the project on time.”

Tip: Practice these questions out loud before the interview!

 Vocabulary to Know for Job Interviews

  • Role / position

  • Qualifications / experience

  • Teamwork / leadership

  • Flexible / reliable / detail-oriented

  • Deadline / target / achievement

  • Multitasking / problem-solving

 Cultural Expectations in English-Speaking Interviews

In countries like Canada, the U.S., the UK, and Australia, employers expect:

  • Direct, clear answers (but polite)

  • A positive attitude about past jobs

  • Good eye contact (in video interviews too)

  • Thank-you emails after the interview

These habits might be different from what you're used to—but they can be learned!

 Personalized Interview Prep with a Certified Tutor

In my online lessons, I help students:

  • Practice interview questions and answers

  • Improve grammar and pronunciation

  • Build professional vocabulary

  • Gain confidence in speaking under pressure

  • Learn how to ask their own smart questions at the end of an interview

You’ll leave our sessions prepared to speak English professionally and get hired.

 Real Results, Real English

 Whether you're applying for a retail job in Toronto, an internship in Sydney, or a tech role in London, I can help you feel prepared and strong in your English.

Book your job interview preparation English lesson here

 About the Author:

Jennifer S. is a TESOL-certified English tutor with a Master’s degree and over 11 years of teaching experience.  She is helping professionals and students prepare for job interviews, language exams, and workplace success.

Visit her website by clicking here!

Location: Ontario, Canada

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