A successful job interview in English requires a demonstration of self-confidence from the candidate. That’s exactly why you should AVOID these 3 phrases. As you will see, they are tempting to say when you are under pressure and don’t know how to respond to particular situations. However, they can suggest uncertainty in yourself and your abilities, which is the last thing you want the interviewer to think.
But there is a solution! Simply use different, more positive phrasing. This is fundamental to sounding and feeling confident when you have an interview in English. Let’s see how!
Phrase #1 to AVOID when you do an interview in English
During your job interview, it’s possible that the interviewer uses a word that you aren’t completely sure about. That is totally normal – even if your first language is English! However, how you respond is important.
Although it’s tempting to say, “I don’t understand you” this could give a bad impression to the interviewer. This phrase sounds abrupt and it doesn’t have a very professional tone. Instead, try saying:
I’m not familiar with that term. Could you please explain it a bit more?
Or
I’d like to make sure I understand correctly. Could you rephrase that?
By speaking confidently in professional English, you demonstrate your ability to communicate well and handle tough situations. This makes you a strong candidate when you do an interview in English.
“I don’t have a specific example right now, but let me share my general approach to… ”
Phrase #2 to AVOID when you do an interview in English
A tough moment when you do an interviewer in English is being asked to share an example of an experience that you’ve never had.
In that case, avoid admitting “I don’t have experience with that” (even if it’s true). That expression really draws attention to your lack of experience. In fact, you can phrase it in a better way that sounds more positive.
I don’t have a specific example right now, but let me share my general approach to…
And now you describe how you usually handle that type of similar task, making sure that you keep your description as relevant as possible. This way, you still give a good interview answer that shows your related skills, and you demonstrate yourself as a problem-solver with a proactive attitude. Again, attractive qualities when you do an interview in English.
Phrase #3 to AVOID when you do an interview in English
If you think you can’t give a proper answer to the interview question, avoid saying “I don’t know” or something similar like “I’m not sure”. This simply highlights your lack of knowledge and your inability to find a solution.
In moments of a mental blank when you do an interview in English, respond with this phrase instead:
I can’t give a full answer right now, but here’s my plan to provide a solution.
And then you explain the steps you would take to find the information you need. You can mention where you would research the topic, how you would get the information, where and how you would present the solution.
You could even email the interviewer with your answer after you do your interview in English. This shows that you’re proactive and ready to take initiative.
How to avoid nasty surprises when you do an interview in English
You limit the chances of being surprised in an interview if you do your research and proper preparation before. This is what gives you confidence. That’s why it’s essential to practice in advance.
You have the option to prepare your job interview in English with Talktips. Check out training options available on Talktips website right now for an individual session online.
Remember, your interview experience can be really positive with the right planning and preparation. And yes, even an interview in English!
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