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✨ How to Prepare for a Job Interview in English (Even If You're Not Fluent)

Written by City Job Offers | Jun 30, 2025 3:42:32 PM

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:

  • “Good morning, it’s great to meet you.”

  • “Thank you for the opportunity to speak with you today.”

Talking about yourself briefly:

  • “I’m originally from [your country], and I’ve been working in [your field] for the past [X] years.”

  • “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.”
If they ask something unexpected, stay calm. You can say:
 

“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:

  • YouTube: Search “job interview in English” or “mock interview” (channels like Speak English with Mr. Steve, or CareerVidz)

  • ChatGPT / AI tools: Simulate an interview and practice responses

  • Apps like ELSA Speak or Cake: Practice pronunciation and listening

  • 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. 💪