✨ How to Prepare for a Job Interview in English (Even If You're Not Fluent)
So, you’ve landed a job interview abroad. Congratulations! 🌍 That’s already a big step. But now comes the part that makes many candidates nervous — the interview in English.
Don’t worry. You don’t have to sound like a native speaker to succeed. What matters most is your confidence, clarity, and preparation.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to get ready, what to expect, and how to make a great impression — even if your English isn't perfect yet.
✅ 1. Start with the Basics: First Impressions Matter
The beginning of the interview is all about small talk and creating a connection. Here are some phrases you can use to sound natural and confident:
Greeting your interviewer:
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“Good morning, it’s great to meet you.”
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“Thank you for the opportunity to speak with you today.”
Talking about yourself briefly:
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“I’m originally from [your country], and I’ve been working in [your field] for the past [X] years.”
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“I’m really excited about this opportunity because I want to grow professionally and live new experiences.”
💡 Pro tip: Practice your elevator pitch: a short 30-second introduction about who you are and what you’re looking for.
✅ 2. Prepare for the Most Common Questions
Even in English, job interviews follow a familiar structure. You can prepare for the most frequent questions and build answers in advance. For example:
| Question | Example Answer |
|---|---|
| Tell me about yourself | “I’m a customer service specialist with 2 years of experience helping international clients.” |
| Why do you want this job? | “Because I’m passionate about helping people, and your company values align with mine.” |
| What are your strengths? | “I’m very organized, and I stay calm under pressure.” |
| What are your weaknesses? | “Sometimes I overthink things, but I’m learning to trust my decisions more.” |
“That’s a good question, let me think for a moment.”
✅ 3. Use the STAR Method (Without Complicating Things)
Interviewers love the STAR method for behavioral questions. Here’s how to keep it simple:
Situation – What was happening?
Task – What was your responsibility?
Action – What did you do?
Result – What happened thanks to your actions?
🔹 Example:
"In my last job, a client was unhappy with a delivery delay (Situation). I had to find a solution quickly (Task). I offered a discount and kept the client updated every day (Action). They stayed with us and even left a great review (Result)."
Practice a couple of these examples, and you’ll sound super professional — in any language.
✅ 4. Confidence is Key — Even with Imperfect English
Here’s a secret: Most recruiters are not expecting perfect grammar. They just want to know you can communicate clearly, work well in a team, and be reliable.
✔ Speak slowly
✔ Don’t apologize for your English
✔ If you don’t understand something, say:
“Could you please repeat that?”
“Sorry, could you explain that a bit more?”
That shows maturity, not weakness.
✅ 5. Tools and Apps to Practice for Free
You don’t have to prepare alone! Use these free resources:
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YouTube: Search “job interview in English” or “mock interview” (channels like Speak English with Mr. Steve, or CareerVidz)
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ChatGPT / AI tools: Simulate an interview and practice responses
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Apps like ELSA Speak or Cake: Practice pronunciation and listening
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Language exchange apps: Tandem or HelloTalk
👉 Bonus: Ask a friend to act as the interviewer. Practicing out loud really helps!
We believe in international talent — and that includes you.
Many of our candidates started with doubts, but with the right preparation, they now live and work abroad, doing what they love.
🌟 You don’t need perfect English to get the job.
You just need to show the best version of yourself.
🔗 Looking for jobs abroad with support in your own language? Check out our latest offers here.
We’re here to help you take the leap. 💪
