Are you interested in working for an international company or in an English-speaking country? Well, a job interview is an avoidable step. This might seem a bit scary, though. Even if you’re more qualified than native English speakers applying for the same job, you might fear that the interviewers won’t understand what you’re saying or even judge you because of your strong foreign accent.
However, if you know how to prepare for a job interview in English, you’ll be surprised by how smooth your interview goes. Here are the five best pronunciation tips to prepare for English job interviews.
1. Slow Down
Generally, speaking too fast doesn’t make you sound more native. Instead, it makes your accent sound stronger, even if it’s not that strong. We encourage you to slow down and stretch your vowel sounds to be clearer. This is especially important on keywords. Naturally, we tend to speak quickly when we are nervous, which can make our speech more difficult to deliver and understand.
2. Use Simple Words
It’s a good idea to use simple words and sentences that can be easily comprehended rather than constructing complex sentences. Focus on what you know and be as concise as possible. Using long, complex words and sentences might make you seem confused, scatterbrained, and less professional.
3. Be Confident
When attending an interview, your goal should be to present yourself as the most qualified candidate for the job, whether you have an accent or not. So confidence is the key here. Stay relaxed and positive throughout the interview, and don’t forget to act as if you’re the right candidate. In addition, do and say things that make you more confident, and the interviewers are going to believe you’re qualified.
4. Research the Keywords
Research and create a list of the most common words used in your industry or in the job you’re applying for. Then practice these words in sentences in the correct order. Also, practice pronouncing the job description and mastering other related details. Get someone, probably a native speaker, to listen and provide a genuine response.
5. Practice Possible Answers to Common Interview Questions
In almost any job interview, you’ll most likely encounter similar questions. Create a list of these questions and practice answering them aloud. Familiarise yourself with these questions and have a clear structure of your answers. It’s also important to hear yourself speaking the answers before the actual interview. So record yourself and listen to how you sound; you can repeat saying these answers repeatedly until you sound clear.
Enrol in Accent Reduction Classes Online
Enrol in accent reduction training if you think you need professional help to improve your communication skills. At Pronunciation School, we offer the best accent reduction courses to help professionals speak in accents that enhance their careers.
We’ll teach you the rules and guidelines you need to speak English with confidence and clarity to make it easier for you to land your dream jobs. Get in touch today for a free accent assessment.