Communication in the Interview

Applying for jobs and securing interviews can be a tough time for everyone. However, there are many people who face more employment challenges than others. For example, there are many people looking for work in the UK whose first language is not English.

If this is the situation you are in, you know that the language differences would not stop you from doing any job that you could if your first language was English. However, this can be hard to get across in an interview as while your English is good for day to day communications, you may easily lose track of the thread of conversation in an interview, of misinterpret the meaning of an interviewer’s question, or your own answer.

However, there are a few simple ways to prepare for an interview if you are worried that your English skills may be tested. Therefore, before you go for your interview, research some common interview questions and answers and practise answering out loud. Someone who does speak English as their first language can help you with your responses and the correct pronunciation and grammar.

You will of course be nervous during the interview, but be confident that you have the relevant qualifications and you also have the additional qualification of being multi-lingual. Also, if at any time you don’t understand what the interviewer is trying to say, ask them to clarify their question.

Also make sure that during the interview you assure the interviewer that your language skills will not affect your job performance and you may even be able to cite some examples of previous working or daily situations you have mastered well. You can also back this up by assuring the interviewer that you are planning to or are currently taking English classes after work or on the weekends.

Once you have survived the interview, send a short thankyou note which reiterates your qualifications and your suitability for the position. Once again, have someone whose first language is English check the letter for spelling and grammar mistakes.

For more information, hints and tips to get you the job of your dreams, check out the other articles and jobs listed on this site, good luck!

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