Overcoming Language Barriers at Interview
Posted in Interview Preparation
If like me, your primary language is not English, getting interviewed is an intimidating experience.
The importance of your fluency in English depends on what position you are applying for. Jobs that deal with numbers like accounting or computer programming do not require refined English skills. However, if your job has to do with interacting with English-speaking clients, your fluency should be significant.
Also, language skills can pose barriers during job interviews, as employers need to feel that they can connect with you. An applicant struggling with English during interviews makes the interviewer uncomfortable.
Here are ways to overcome language difficulties during job interviews.
Memorize common answers
Job interviews tend to have commonly-asked questions such as
"What are your strengths and weaknesses?"
"How do you see yourself 10 years from now?"
Memorize your answers to these questions and practice it.
Have someone to help you
You may have a friend who speaks better English than you, or at least who is knowledgeable about using the language. Ask for your friend help in editing your responses' for grammar, as well as pronunciation.
Make notes
Write down a few keynotes of your answers to yourself that you can look into during the interview. This keeps your focus and downplays your sense of intimidation.
Make questions
Prepare and memorize question that you wish to ask the interviewer. Ask the interviewer if the use of English is important in your prospective job.
Be confident that you can speak more
Do not think of yourself as a person who struggling with English language. Think of yourself as a qualified person who can speak more than one language. This accomplishment cannot be claim by many interviewers.
Ask for clarification
If you do not understand a question during the interview, ask the interviewer for clarification starting with, "I want to make sure that I understand what you mean. Are you saying that...?"
Make your language proficiency shine
Mention during the interview how you understand instructions. This is prove to your potential employer that you can excel in your job despite limitations in the English language and that you are planning to take advanced English classes to further sharpen your language skills.
