Finding a Job for ESL Learners - Part 3: Interview Basics

The Interview

Congratulations! Your cover letter and resume have made a good impression and the employer has called you in for an interview. Now it's time to make sure that you also have the right type of English for that job interview.

There are some very important game rules to consider when taking a job interview. The job interview in English requires a very specific kind of vocabulary. It also requires good tense usage as you need to make a clear distinction between past and present responsibilities. Here is a quick overview of the appropriate tenses to use:

There are a number of other tenses that you can use to speak about experience that you have had. However, if you do not feel comfortable using more advanced tenses, these tenses should serve you well in the interview.

Work Experience

Work experience is by far the most important part of any job interview in an English speaking country. It is true that education is also important, however, most employers are more impressed by extensive work experience than by university degrees. Employers want to know exactly what you did and how well you accomplished your tasks. This is the part of the interview during which you can make the best impression. It's important to give full, detailed answers. Be confident, and emphasize your accomplishments in past positions.

Qualifications

Qualifications include any education from high school through university, as well as any special training you may have had (such as computer courses). Make sure to mention your English studies. This is very important as English is not your first language and the employer may be concerned about this fact. Assure the employer that you are continuing to improve your English skills by any courses you may be taking, or by saying that you study a certain number of hours a week to improve your skills.

Talking about Responsibilities

Most importantly, you will need to demonstrate your qualifications and skills which are directly applicable to the job you are applying for. If past job skills were not exactly the same as what you will need on the new job, make sure to detail how they are similar to job skills you will need for the new position.

Next: Job Interview Examples

Finding a Job For ESL Learners

Finding a Job - Writing a Cover Letter

Writing Your Resume

The Interview: Basics

Example Interview Questions

Useful Job Interview Vocabulary