The biggest mistake you can make when going to an interview is not to prepare. Understand that most of the questions (and they are pretty typical, you can read about the whole process on the internet) are pre-specified answers with slight variations. That is, the interview process itself is planned, and everything that the HR manager will ask you is asked not just out of curiosity, but in order to get certain answers. An interview in English is a little more difficult, because you not only need to impress with your experience, knowledge and irresistible desire to devote your whole life to enriching this company, but also to do it on a beautiful English language to make your jaw drop. I offer you my thoughts on the direction in which you need to move, talking about yourself at the interview, as well as a few examples of answers to the most frequently asked questions (I will highlight in bold beautiful words and expressions that are worth remembering and using in speech).
For an employee of the company conducting an interview, a dry knowledge of the resume is not enough, he needs to introduce you to this position, understand from your conversation and how you present yourself, whether you are suitable for it or not.
1. Tell me about yourself...
The stupidest question that brings down most candidates. Prepare for this question. This question is almost always raised at the beginning of the interview. Between this question and the question "Why should we hire you?" you can put an equal sign. Write two or three sentences about yourself in the form of the so-called USP (Unique Selling Point) - a description of your greatest strengths and the benefits that your experience and knowledge of this company will bring. For example: "I"m a seasoned Retail Manager strong in developing training programs and prevention loss techniques that have resulted in revenue savings of over $2.3Million for (employer"s name) during the past 11 years."
2. What is your greatest strength?
Try not to overdo it. "I work too hard" is a lousy answer that promises trouble. Know the measure of your own praise, because the company wants to see you, not the picture you paint. Describe only those qualities that are relevant to this company and represent you as the most suitable candidate.
- When I "m working on a project, I don't want just to meet deadlines. Rather, I prefer to complete the project well ahead of schedule. I have exceeded my sales goals every quarter and I "ve earned a bonus each year since I started with my current employer. My time management skills are excellent and I"m organized, efficient, and take pride in excelling at my work. I pride myself on my customer service skills and my ability to resolve what could be difficult situations.
Here you should highlight your weak side and talk about what you are doing in order to correct it. For example, if you are an accountant, then no one will be surprised if you say that your strength is numbers, but communication with people is weak. But customer relationships are one of the most important aspects of running a business, so you work hard at it.
- When I "m working on a project, I don"t want just to meet deadlines. Rather, I prefer to complete the project well ahead of schedule.
- Being organized wasn't my strongest point, but I implemented a time management system that really helped me organizational skills.
- I like to make sure that my work is perfect, so I tend to perhaps spend a little too much time checking it. However, I've come to a good balance by setting up a system to ensure everything is done correctly the first time.
- I used to wait until the last minute to set appointments for the coming week, but I realized that scheduling in advance makes much more sense.
- Sometimes, I spend more time than necessary on a task, or take on tasks personally that could easily be delegated to someone else. Although I"ve never missed a deadline, it is still an effort for me to know when to move on to the next task, and to be confident when assigning others work.
- I "ve learned to make my perfectionism work to my advantage at work. I am excellent at meeting deadlines, and with my attention to detail, I know my work is correct.
- I used to like to work on one project to its completion before starting on another, but I"ve learned to work on many projects at the same time, and I think it allows me to be more creative and effective in each one.
Examples from your experience will be appropriate here. So the company will get an idea of how you function in stressful situations. Another popular question is "What are the most difficult decisions to make?" or "Describe a difficult work situation / project and how you overcame it." Be sure to tell us about real situations (clearly things that ended in a happy ending for you), about how you resolved certain problems. Prepare yourself so that you don’t sit and frantically remember right at the interview! Also in the same category is "Tell me about a time you made a mistake", which is more aimed at finding out how you feel about criticism. Say that criticism is important to you because it helps you improve and correct mistakes, but you also need to consider who it comes from.
- Stress is very important to me. With stress, I do the best possible job. The appropriate way to deal with stress is to make sure I have the correct balance between good stress and bad stress. I need good stress to stay motivated and productive.
- I react to situations, rather than to stress. That way, the situation is handled and doesn't become stressful.
- I actually work better under pressure and I"ve found that I enjoy working in a challenging environment.
- From a personal perspective, I manage stress by visiting the gym every evening. It's a great stress reducer.
- Prioritizing my responsibilities so I have a clear idea of what needs to be done when, has helped me effectively manage pressure on the job.
- If the people I am managing are contributing to my stress level, I discuss options for better handling difficult situations with them.
- I find that when I "m under the pressure of a deadline, I can do some of my most creative work.
- I "m not a person who has a difficult time with stress. When I" m under pressure, I focus, and get the job done.
- I find it exhilarating to be in a dynamic environment where the pressure is on.
- I find a past pace to be invigorating, and thrive when the pressure is on.
- I "ve done some of my best work under tight deadlines, where the atmosphere was very stressful.
- I "m the kind of person who stays calm under pressure, and handle stress fairly easily.
5. Why are you leaving your job?
Don't badmouth your previous employer. Emphasize the positive points, experiences and knowledge that you learned from your previous job. Focus more on the future.
- There isn't room for growth with my current employer and I "m ready to move on to a new challenge.
- I was laid-off from my last position when our department was eliminated due to corporate restructuring.
- I "m relocating to this area due to family circumstances and left my previous position in order to make the move.
- I "ve decided that is not the direction I want to go in my career and my current employer has no opportunities in the direction I "d like to head.
- After several years in my last position, I"m looking for an company where I can contribute and grow in a team-oriented environment.
- I am interested in a new challenge and an opportunity to use my technical skills and experience in a different capacity than I have in the past.
- I am interested in a job with more responsibility, and I am very ready for a new challenge.
- To be honest, I wasn't considering a move, but, I saw this job posting and was intrigued by the position and the company. It sounds like an exciting opportunity and an ideal match with my qualifications.
- This position seemed like an excellent match for my skills and experience and I am not able to fully utilize them in my present job.
- The company was cutting back and, unfortunately, my job was one of those eliminated.
- I evaluate success in different ways. At work, it is meeting the goals set by my supervisors and my fellow workers. It is my understanding, from talking to other employees, that the GGR company is recognized for not only rewarding success, but giving employees the opportunity to grow as well.
- I want this job because it seems tailored to my competencies, which include sales and marketing. As I said earlier, in a previous position I created an annual growth rate of 22 percent in a flat industry. Additionally, the team I would work with looks terrific.
- This job is a good fit for what I "ve been interested in throughout my career. It offers a nice mix of short- and long-term activities. My short-term achievements keep me cranked up and the long-term accomplishments make me feel like a billion bucks.
- The work I find most stimulating a llows me to use both my creative and research skills. The buzz on this company is that it rewards people who deliver solutions to substantial problems.
This question is necessary in order to understand whether you understand all the responsibilities of a future position, as well as to find out what you can offer this company.
- You have explained that you are looking for a sales executive who is able to effectively manage over a dozen employees. In my fifteen years of experience as a sales manager, I have developed strong motivational and team-building skills. I was twice awarded manager-of-the-year for my innovative strategies for motivating employees to meet and surpass quarterly deadlines. If hired, I will bring my leadership abilities and strategies for achieving profit gains to this position.
One of the most important points in the interview. Do not talk about the family, the possibility of continuing education, etc. Talk only about what is connected with this company and work in it. Of course, you may not imagine yourself working for this company in 5 or 10 years. But don't mention it.
- My long-term goals involve growing with a company where I can continue to learn, take on additional responsibilities, and contribute as much of value as I can.
- I see myself as a top performing employee in a well-established organization, like this one. I plan on enhancing my skills and continuing my involvement in (related) professional associations.
- Once I gain additional experience, I would like to move on from a technical position to management.
Again, a question necessary for your employer to know what is important to you in life. For example, playing sports represents you as a disciplined person. The most important thing is that your hobby does not take away the time that can be used for the benefit of this company.
- One of my greatest passions is helping others. When I was younger, I "ve enjoyed helping mom with household repairs. As I grew older, that habit grew and I desired to help others as well. I like helping people find solutions that meet their specific needs.
- I "m passionate about painting. I take an evening art class once a week and try to find time each weekend to paint. Painting is a good way for me to relax and even though I don" t have much talent, I do it enjoy it.
- I'm passionate about making a difference. When I "m involved with a project at work I want to do my best to achieve success. I feel the same way about what I do in my personal life.
- I "m an avid skier and I like to spend weekends and vacations on the ski slopes.
An interview in English is an important stage, which is no different from a regular interview if you are fluent in English. In this article, we will tell and provide ready-made answers that you can simply customize or memorize! In international campaigns, the interview can be entirely in English, where they will check whether you are suitable professionally, while in other organizations, the interview in English will only be focused on checking your level of English proficiency.
Interview in English. Questions and Answers for the interview in English.
The first question asked in an interview is usually aimed at establishing contact or, as they say in English, “breaking the ice”. So don't be surprised to hear this question:
How are you today? Did you have any trouble finding us?
- How are you? Did you find us with difficulty?
I'm fine! Thank you, and you?
(Thank you! I am fine. And you?)
How would you describe yourself as a person?
- How would you describe yourself?
I'm a perfectionist. I pay attention to all the details, and like to be sure that everything is just right.
I am a perfectionist. I pay attention to all the details and I like to be sure that everything goes according to plan.
I'm efficient and highly organized. This enables me to be as productive as possible on the job.
I am productive and disciplined. This helps to achieve the highest results at work.
I'm a creative thinker. I like to explore alternative solutions to problems and have an open mind about what will work best.
I am resourceful. I like to find alternative more efficient solutions to problems.
I enjoy solving problems, troubleshooting issues, and coming up with solutions in a timely manner.
I like to solve problems and offer solutions.
What type of position are you looking for?
What type of position are you looking for?
I'm interested in an entry level (beginning) position.
I am interested in an entry level position.
I'm looking for a position in which I can use my experience.
I am looking for a position where I could use my experience.
I would like any position for which I qualify.
Any position that matches my qualifications will suit me.
Are you interested in a full-time or part-time position?
Are you interested in a full-time or part-time job?
I am more interested in a full-time position. However, I would also consider a part-time position.
I'm more interested in working full time. However, I would also consider part-time work.
Can you tell me about your responsibilities at your last job?
- Please tell us about your duties at your last job.
I advised customers on financial matters. After I consulted the customer, I completed a customer inquiry form and cataloged the information in our database. I then collaborated with colleagues to prepare the best possible package for the client. The clients were then presented with a summarized report on their financial activities that I formulated on a quarterly basis.
I have advised clients on financial matters. After the consultations, I filled out a client questionnaire and cataloged the information in our database. Then, together with colleagues, I prepared the best possible package for the client. After that, clients were presented with a consolidated report on their financial transactions, which I prepared quarterly.
What is your greatest strength?
– What are your strongest qualities?
I work well under pressure. When there is a deadline, I can focus on the task at hand (current project) and structure my work schedule well. I remember one week when I had to get 6 new customer reports out by Friday at 5. I finished all the reports ahead of time without having to work overtime.
I work well in stressful situations (under pressure). If there is a deadline for completing a task, I organize my work plan well. I remember one week when I had to issue 6 reports on new clients by 17:00 on Friday. I completed all reports ahead of schedule and didn't have to work overtime.
I am an excellent communicator. People trust me and come to me for advice. One afternoon, my colleague was involved with a troublesome (difficult) customer who felt he was not being served well. I made the customer a cup of coffee and invited both my colleague and the client to my desk where we solved the problem together.
I'm great with people. People trust me and come to consult. One afternoon, a colleague of mine ran into a problematic (difficult) customer who felt he had been badly served. I prepared a cup of coffee for the client, and invited the client and colleague to my table, where we jointly solved the problem.
I am a trouble shooter. When there was a problem at my last job, the manager would always ask me to solve it. Last summer, the server at work crashed. The manager was desperate and called me in (requested my help) to get the server back online. After taking a look at the daily backup, I detected the problem and the server was up and running (working) within the hour.
I can fix problems. When there were problems at my previous job, the manager always asked me to solve them. There was a server crash last summer. The manager was desperate and called me (asked for my help) to restore the server. After reviewing the daily backup, I found the problem and the server was up and running within an hour.
My time management skills are excellent. I'm organized and efficient.
I have excellent time management skills. I am disciplined and efficient.
I pride myself on my customer service skills and my ability to resolve what could be difficult situations.
I pride myself on my customer service skills and my ability to handle difficult situations.
What is your greatest weakness?
What are your biggest weaknesses (shortcomings)?
I tend to spend too much time making sure the customer is satisfied. However, I began setting time-limits for myself If I noticed this happening.
I have a tendency to take too long to satisfy a client. However, I have begun to set time limits for myself if I notice this happening.
When I'm working on a project, I don't want just to meet deadlines. Rather, I prefer to complete the project well ahead of schedule.
When working on a project, it's not enough for me just to meet the deadline. I prefer to complete the task ahead of schedule.
Being organized wasn’t my strongest point, but I implemented a time management system that really helped my organization skills.
I wasn't always so well organized, so I learned a time management system that really helped me with my discipline.
Why do you want to work for us?
- Why do you want to work with us?
After following your firm’s progress for the last 3 years, I am convinced that you are becoming one of the market leaders and I would like to be part of the team.
Following the progress of your company over the past 3 years, I came to the conclusion that you are becoming one of the market leaders, and I would like to become part of your team.
I am impressed by the quality of your products. I am sure that I would be a convincing salesman because I truly believe that the ABC is the best product on the market today.
I was impressed by the quality of your products. I am confident that I will be a persuasive seller because I truly believe that ABS is the best product on the market today.
Why Should We Hire You?
Why should we hire you?
You should hire me because I’m not only qualified for this job due to my experiences, but also because of the positive attitudes that I have towards the tasks given to me.
You should hire me, not only because I have the necessary qualifications and experience, but also because I have a positive attitude that helps me to carry out the assignments.
I am very motivated to do this job- it's my dream. If you hire me, I will do my best to exceed your highest expectations.
I am very motivated to do this job as it is my dream job. If you hire me, I will spare no effort to meet your highest expectations.
You should hire me because I have the ability to develop my skills. I can handle myself and my responsibilities. If you hire me, I will do my best to exceed your highest expectations.
You should hire me as I have the ability to develop my skills. I can handle my responsibilities. If you hire me, I will spare no effort to meet your highest expectations.
Three reasons: I meet deadlines, I deliver on what I promised, and as a result I always make my managers to be proud of me.
You should hire me for three reasons: I always meet deadlines, deliver on promises, and make my boss proud of me.
I can't speak for the other candidates because I don't know their qualifications, but I can tell you this: I would never put myself in a position where I think I would fail. I know I can do this job and succeed.
I can't speak for other candidates because I don't know the level of qualifications, but I can say that I would never apply for the position I deserve. I know that I can handle this job and succeed.
I think I should be hired because I'm a hardworking, well-organized and responsible. I'm also effective.
I believe that I deserve to be accepted as I am hardworking, well organized and responsible.
What Can You Contribute to the Company?
— What will be your contribution to the company?
I'm a hard worker with the experience to get things done efficiently.
I am a workaholic with experience and a habit of getting things done with maximum efficiency.
I can contribute my organizational skills and my ability to work well in a group.
I am ready to bring to the company my organizational skills and my ability to work well in a team.
I have the experience, contacts, and knowledge to contribute to the rapid growth of this business.
I have the experience, contacts and knowledge to ensure the rapid growth of this business/company.
I am experienced in the areas this company needs to grow, and my ability to plan ahead will help facilitate that growth.
I have experience in the very areas that the growth of the company depends on, and the ability to plan ahead, which will contribute to this growth.
Why did you leave your previous job?
Why did you leave your previous job?
I am interested in a new challenge and an opportunity to use my technical skills and experience in a different capacity than I have in the past.
I am interested in new challenges and opportunities to use my technical skills and experience in a different way.
I am interested in a job with more responsibility, and I am very ready for a new challenge.
I am interested in working with a larger area of responsibility, and I am ready for new challenges and tasks.
This position seemed like an excellent match for my skills and experience and I am not able to fully utilize them in my present job.
This position is ideal for applying my skills and experience to the fullest, unlike my current job.
Why did you move to this country?
Why did you move to this country?
We always wanted to settle here, and are now doing so.
We always wanted to move here, and finally decided.
I moved here for the employment opportunities.
I moved here because of career opportunities.
What motivates you most at work?
What motivates/inspires you at work?
I've always been motivated by the desire to do a good job at whatever position I'm in.
I have always been motivated by the desire to do a good job no matter what position I am in.
I want to excel and to be successful in my job, both for my own personal satisfaction and for my employer.
I want to succeed and be successful in my work, both for my inner satisfaction and for the employer.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
– Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
My goal right now is to find a position at a company where I can grow and take on new challenges over time. Ultimately, I'd like to assume more management responsibilities and get involved in product strategy. But most importantly, I want to work for an organization where I can build a career.
On the this moment, my goal is to find exactly the position and company where I can grow and constantly take on a new challenge. Ultimately, I'd like to have more responsibility for leading people, as well as being more involved in the product development strategy. But most importantly, I would like to work for an organization where I could make a career.
Where, I can take the decisions for the betterment of the organization. Where I should be proud off my achievements and where my peer and sub-ordinates gave an example of my talent and hard work to motivate others.
Where I can make decisions for the improvement and well-being of the organization. Where I can be proud of my achievements, and my colleagues and subordinates could cite my talent and diligence as an example to others.
After the five year I want to be respectable position in the organization. After getting more experience I want to take part in making an important decision for the organization.
In 5 years, I would like to hold a respected position in this company. After I gain the necessary experience? I would like to make important decisions in this company.
Do You Prefer to Work Independently or On a Team?
Do you prefer to work on your own or in a team?
I would like to work in an environment where there is a blend of both. Its great working in teams while sharing and learning ideas with each other, but it’s also great to sit at my own desk and work hard productively.
I would like to work in an environment where there is a combination of both. It's great when there is an opportunity to work in a team and share ideas with others. At the same time, I like to sit at my desk and work productively.
I like working myself. But I love working in a team because one thing is for sure -gaining and sharing knowledge through experience. It is always said “Two heads are better than one”. Working as an individual, I can apply all that I have learned throughout the career. So I believe both have their importance and both are required to be successful in any field.
I like to work on my own, but also, I prefer teamwork, as knowledge and experience can be exchanged. As they say, two heads are better than one. Working individually, in the future, I will be able to apply the acquired skills. Therefore, both types of work are important and require successful completion.
What is important to you in a company?
— What is important for you in the company? What company would you like to work for?
I would like to work for a company that:
I would like to work for a company that:
is fair and open with its employees(honest and open to its employees)
is growing(growing)
offers opportunities(gives opportunity)
offers training to do my job better(offers professional development training)
When can you begin?
– When can you start work?
immediately.
The need to pass an interview in a foreign language confuses many applicants.
However, this hurdle has common sense A: The language barrier can be a serious hindrance.
Without communication with colleagues and partners, without the ability to communicate with clients, career growth is unthinkable.
The management of the company is thus trying to insure itself and the applicant from unpromising cooperation.
With a sufficient level of knowledge, at an interview in English, you can encounter another obstacle: your own excitement. This factor cannot be discounted, since often it is he who, even in the presence of a rich vocabulary, makes it difficult to formulate meaningful answers in English during the interview process.
Therefore, preparing for an interview in English is an indispensable condition for success.
With good general preparation in English, it is quite possible to pick up theses, words and definitions for an interview in one day. In a calm atmosphere, formulate in sentences the thoughts that you would like to convey to the company's management during the interview.
A small selection of English definitions aptly and intelligibly characterizes personal qualities and organically complement the interview:
- About professionalism: efficient, mature, experienced, competent, adept.
- About health: active, enterprising, motivated, enthusiastic, productive, energetic, determined.
- Your approach to problem solving: creative, adaptable, discreet, broad-minded, logical, practical, objective, accurate.
- About results: firm, successful.
- Personal qualities: сonscientious, fair, genuine, dependable, honest, trustworthy, reliable (decent, reliable); loyal, diplomatic (polite, friendly).
And now let's talk in more detail about how to prepare for an interview in English.
What phrases are useful?
It is very good if, in addition to general phrases, professional terminology is present in the interview.
Foreign colleagues who are native English speakers can become your unwitting clues. They can help you quickly prepare in English for an interview.
Search their resumes on specialized Internet resources, choose useful English words and phrases, and think about how they can be applied to a job interview in an international company.
At the interview, you will probably have to talk about professional skills (professional skills). The English list of positive qualities, alas, does not fully reveal your professional value, and therefore requires clarification.
Focus on competence and personal achievement. It does not matter if at the time of your interview these have not yet received universal recognition: tell us about your experience gained as a result of professional activity.
In conclusion, report on the desire not to stop there (always eager to learn). Often, in the eyes of the employer, learning is more valuable than officially recognized merits: a new employee will have to quickly become familiar with the specifics of the company's activities.
By making it clear at the interview that you are ready to master any nuances, you get a serious advantage over other applicants for a position in the company.
Do not try to show off at the interview with your knowledge of modern English slang, as well as outdated or overly artistic expressions - perhaps you will really be able to impress your counterpart, but not quite the way you would like.
stick business style communication and use common and understandable words.
Prepare answers to standard English questions that are popular in interviews at various companies. Being unpretentious at first glance, some of them are able to drive the applicant to a standstill.
Such preparation for an interview in English 1 day before it is quite capable of bringing results.
What questions should be expected?
Most interviews begin with an invitation to introduce yourself: tell me about yourself. 
Be tactful - do not tire the interlocutor with pauses, tedious speech, slurred details.
Do not waste the time allotted to you for self-promotion.
Compose and memorize a peppy, short, how ads, story. It should boil down to the fact that you are the very person that the company needs.
Do not let third-party information divert attention from the main character, that is, from you.
Multitasking is a very relevant business quality today.
At the interview, be sure to tell the counterpart that you are a multi-tasking worker.
Take another phrase into service: I perform well under pressure.
The ability to stay productive in any environment where neither stress, nor conflict, nor tight deadlines can unbalance is highly valued in today's business environment.
The mentioned qualities will be a real decoration of your interview..
How do you dealt with…? - how did you get out of a difficult situation in the previous company - a very provocative question containing a red herring. Take care of the reputation of your former place of work.
Give the most neutral example that does not reveal production secrets and does not include criticism of the former leadership - you will be credited. The real purpose of this question is to reveal already at the interview a tendency to sacrifice company trade secrets or a willingness to sweep all rubbish for show for self-promotion.
What to repeat right before the start?
Here are some thematic English expressions, the knowledge of which will help you feel more confident in the interview:
I know how to cooperate:
- I’m an excellent team player - I know how to work in a team;
- …sound organіzіng abіlіtіes - bright leadership qualities;
- І can take criticіsm easіly and profіt from it - I treat criticism of the company's management painlessly and constructively.
I'm not afraid of difficulties:
- …a great willingness to learn - good learning ability;
- …an abіlіtu to grasp dіfficult concepts easily - the ability to understand complex schemes;
- I’ve got… is a common expression in English that applies to the qualities and skills that you possess.
How to successfully pass an interview?
The final touch of the interview will be questions and wishes from your side. Ask about the prospects in the company, do not hide your ambitions.
Specify such nuances as the vacation schedule, the conditions of the social package, bonuses, take an interest in the traditions of the company. Experience shows that before an interview, questions on their part should be thought out no less carefully than answers.
Many applicants ask the question: how to pass an interview in English without knowing the language? Don't worry about minor mistakes in English during an interview: most employers are sympathetic to employees who have to overcome the language barrier and make allowances for natural excitement.
The decisive factors are your professional level and positive personal qualities. In the process of working in an international company, knowledge of English will improve significantly. More information about interviewing in English can be found.
Watch the video: interview in English, preparation.
A job interview is one of the most important events in our lives. And in order for this event to pass with a bang, it is extremely important to properly prepare for the questions that we are asked.
One of the most popular job interview questions, one might say, an indispensable attribute of it, is the traditional question: "Could you describe yourself?" (“Could you describe yourself?”) and its variants: “Please describe yourself”, “Tell me about yourself”, “Walk me through your background”, “What should I know about you?”.
This question is a great opportunity for self-presentation and a story about yourself in English. This is your chance to make a great first impression with someone (perhaps your future employer)!
In addition, this is a useful exercise for those who seek to “know themselves”, to critically reflect on their achievements and failures, draw conclusions and reach a new level of development.
A typical mistake is a story about a personal
Do not forget - the question is asked at a work interview and the answer should concern only the professional aspects of your life. The only purpose of the interviewer asking you this question is to make sure that you are the ideal candidate for this or that vacancy. Therefore, focus on your professional qualities that are useful to the employer (and to find out which of your advantages the employer will appreciate, optimize your description of yourself in English by studying the company profile and detailed job description in advance).
3 components of a successful story about yourself in English:
1. Introduce yourself and indicate who you are professionally.
|
Correctly: |
|
| I'm an HR manager with 8 years of experience for Fortune 500 companies. | I am an HR manager with 8 years of experience in 500 organizations largest companies USA. |
| - Brief but informative. Not properly: | |
| Well, I grew up in Cincinnati. | Well, I grew up in Cincinnati. |
| As a child, I wanted to be a fireman, then later became interested in dinosaurs. | As a child, I wanted to be a firefighter, but then I became interested in dinosaurs. |
| I excelled in the sciences from early on, placing first in my fourth-grade science fair. |
From an early age, I excelled in the sciences: in the fourth grade, I won first place in an exhibition in natural history. |
| Funny story about that… | Let me tell you a funny story... |
| - Too much unnecessary information. | |
2. In a nutshell, tell us about your education, relevant to the chosen vacancy(for example, if you are applying for the position of a system administrator, you can not mention the completion of astrology courses).
- Read on this topic:
3. Briefly describe your professional experience. Make special mention of the most reputable and well-known firms you have worked for.
| Correctly: | |
| I have spent the last six years developing my skills as a customer service manager for Megacompany Inc., where I have won several performance awards and been promoted twice. | For the past 6 years, I have been developing my customer service manager skills at Megacompany Inc., where I have been awarded several times for excellent work and have been promoted twice. |
| — Emphasis is placed on experience and recognition of professional achievements. Not properly: | |
| My first job was as an administrative assistant for Macy's in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. | My first job was as an administrative assistant at Macy's in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. |
| I learned a great deal in that role that served me well over the next 12 years. | In this position, I learned a lot that served me well for the next twelve years. |
| At the time, I wasn't sure about my career path, so I next took a position selling real estate. | At the time, I wasn't sure what career path I should take, so I moved on to selling real estate. |
| It only lasted for six months, but I sure enjoyed it. | I worked in this position for only six months, but I definitely liked the job. |
| - In fact, few people are interested in where you worked 12 years ago. Starting your story at your first job (usually the least prestigious one) runs the risk of tiring the interviewer before you even get to the most important part of the story. | |
If you are just starting your career, try to convince the interlocutor that you have a high motivation for learning and are ready to move mountains for the benefit of the company. And don't be afraid to overdo it with enthusiasm!
4. Tell us about the skills and abilities that make you an ideal candidate for the selected vacancy
Temporarily disable modesty :
the interviewer needs to understand what the company will lose by not hiring you.
And be concise: mention only 2-4 of your most notable achievements that will make you stand out from the crowd of candidates, for example:
5. “And here I am”: end the story by explaining why you are applying for an open position
| Correctly: | |
| Although I love my current role, I feel I'm now ready for a more challenging assignment and this position really excites me. | Even though I like my current official duties, I feel that I am ready for more responsible tasks and this vacancy really inspires me. |
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- Concise and positive. Not properly: |
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| Because of the company’s financial problems I’m worried about my job’s stability and decided to start looking for new opportunities. | Due to the financial problems of the company, I am worried about the instability of my work, so I decided to start looking for new options. |
| - In such cases, you should not reveal the whole sad truth about the state of affairs in your company, otherwise you risk coming across as a pessimist. In addition, it seems that you are not interested in a specific position in a specific company, but in any job that comes up. | |
Do not try to fit all the information from the resume into your answer, otherwise you risk tiring the interviewer. The word "interview" comes from the verb "conversate," so keep your answers short so the interviewer can ask the questions he wants without interrupting you.
Here are some more tips on how to describe yourself in English in an interview:
3 important nuances when talking about yourself in English:
- Self confidence. The biggest mistake many candidates make is hesitant, slurred speech. Pauses and hesitations in response demonstrate a low level of concentration and self-confidence. Naturally, the chances of success in this case fall.
- Clarity, accuracy, relevance. Do not complicate your story, speak in short sentences. But try to put in them as much information that is useful to the employer.
- Be honest. Nowadays, any false data is easy to detect. Many companies blacklist even very promising candidates if they are caught even in the slightest lie. Therefore, do not embellish reality.
As a confirmation of your words, bring diplomas and certificates, author's certificates and letters of thanks to the first interview - any evidence of your professional competence.
7 original ways to start a story about yourself in English:
1. “I can summarize who I am in three words:…”
This option is sure to grab the interviewer's attention: it demonstrates your ability to generalize, highlight the main points and be creative in approaching the problem. Choose the cherished three words from the list of your valuable business qualities (read below about what the employer considers the strengths of the future employee).
2. “The main principle I live my life by is…” - “ Main principle which I adhere to in life is ... "
By beginning your answer in this way, you make it clear that you attach a great importance to personal development. In addition, this way you demonstrate the ability to self-organize and self-motivate.
3. “My personal philosophy is…”
Such an answer characterizes you as a thinking, proactive person, and not a blind executor of someone else's will (if the vacancy you have chosen requires just “humility and obedience”, ignore this item).
4. “People who know me best say that I’m…”»
The answer indicates your ability to self-criticism and the ability to listen to other people's opinions. Excellent qualities!
5. “Well, I googled myself this morning, and here’s what I found…”
“Witty, original thinking, and even with a computer at odds” ... This is how the interviewer will think of you. And it will definitely set you apart from the crowd of candidates. And is it important!
6. “If Hollywood made a movie about my life, it would be called…”
Nontrivial, funny, memorable.
7. “The compliment people give me most frequently is…”
This beginning of the answer also indicates that you are ready to adequately perceive someone else's opinion about yourself. For the team, such a person is a godsend!
But the proposed options are only the beginning of the story... And now let's think about how to continue the self-presentation, so that your interviewer looks up from the cold coffee, looks up at you with tired eyes and mentally exclaims: “Wow! This is the best answer all day!”.
When describing yourself in English, highlight your strengths
From the arsenal of your professional merits, you should highlight those qualities that your future employer needs. Here are some aspects that you can mention as virtues:
Learning agility (fast-learner)
Even work experience is not as important as the ability of a candidate to master a new technology in a short time. Such people are valued by management.
Self-motivated and determined - proactive and purposeful
People say that initiative is punishable, but lack of initiative is a direct path to vegetating even in the most promising position.
Success-oriented and natural leader - success-oriented, a natural leader
No matter how smart and educated a specialist is, they will most likely hire the candidate who is more motivated to succeed. This characteristic is mandatory for leaders.
Team player - team player
To achieve success, a person often needs a group of like-minded people. Therefore, the ability to get along with people in a team is almost as important as a diploma of higher education.
Hardworking - industrious, workable
How successful leader, and an effective performer are inconceivable without the ability to work conscientiously (to work hard). They say that success depends only 10% on the mental abilities of a person, and 90% on his ability to work.
Intelligence and self confidence - intelligence and self-confidence
Having intelligence does not mean knowing everything in the world: it is enough, as they say, “to have a head on your shoulders”, that is, to have basic everyday logic (especially if you lead a team).
Other positive professional characteristics when describing yourself in English:
| able to keep deadlines successfully | able to complete work on time |
| able to prioritize | able to prioritize |
| able to work independently with little or no supervision | able to work independently, without supervision (or with minimal supervision) |
| adapt well to new situations | easily adapt to new situations |
| have good communication / interpersonal skills | I have good communication skills |
| have planning skills | have planning skills |
| multitasking | able to successfully work with several projects, "multi-tasking" |
| open to change | ready to change, not a retrograde |
| optimistic | optimistic |
| patient | patient |
| Possess a proactive approach | have an active life position, initiative |
| quality oriented | focused on quality |
| trying to learn from past mistakes | try to learn from mistakes |
| well organized | organized |
| have a stable work history | my professional biography is stable |
| versatile | versatile, versatile |
| a quick learner (enjoy learning new things) | fast learner (love to learn new things) |
| a team player who shares knowledge and ideas with colleagues | team player, share knowledge and ideas with colleagues |
- What other positive characteristics are worth mentioning, read in our article.
An example of a successful story about yourself in English:
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I think one of my greatest strengths is as a problem solver. |
I think one of my most valuable qualities is my ability to solve problems. |
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I have the ability to see a situation from different perspectives and I can get my work done even in the face of difficult obstacles. |
I can look at a situation from different points of view and do work with great difficulty. |
|
I also feel that my communication skills are top notch. |
I also think I have excellent communication skills. |
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I feel just as comfortable presenting to senior executives as I do mediating a conflict between junior team members. |
It is equally easy for me to communicate with both senior employees and junior staff when I mediate in their conflicts. |
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I worked as a programmer in the past so I have that perspective of a developer and I think that they respect me for that. |
I worked as a programmer in the past, so I understand the developers' point of view and I think they respect me for it. |
How to talk about your own shortcomings when talking about yourself in English
As the wise saying goes, "Our faults are the extension of our virtues."
Of course, it is easy and pleasant to talk about the strengths of our own personality, but sometimes we have to talk about our weaknesses ...
If you are asked to name your weaknesses (weaknesses), choose the disadvantage that is the least significant for the selected vacancy and be sure to make it clear that you are able to cope with it, that you are already working on the problem and progress is not far off, for example:
Below is a list of qualities that can be presented as shortcomings without much damage to the professional image (it is not recommended to deny the existence of shortcomings, because even there are stains):
Getting nervous around people - experience nervousness from being in a team
In this day and age, when an employee often works all day in an isolated office space, either a cubicle or distance working, some of us have become . Such people may feel uncomfortable having to perform in front of a large audience. Well, a number of vacancies do not provide for either intensive communication with people.
Having trouble delegating tasks - experience problems with delegation (reassignment) of tasks
In every organization there are people who find it easier to do the work themselves than to outsource it to someone else. For the company, such people are real wealth, but for colleagues, they often turn out to be an annoying factor.
Lacking some skills - lack of certain knowledge and skills
No one can boast of absolute universality (“No one will embrace the immense”, Kozma Prutkov).
Being too sensitive - being overly sensitive
You take everything to heart, but you also perceive failures at work as personal!
An example of the correct approach to a story in English about one's own shortcomings:
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Well, no one is perfect. |
Well, no one is perfect. |
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I definitely get impatient with team members who are making mistakes or delivering substandard work. |
I definitely lose patience with those team members who make mistakes or do poor work. |
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But I "ve learned over the past that it"s more effective way to approach those team members with professionalism and constructive criticism rather than jump to conclusions about who"s to blame for the cause of the problem. |
But over time, I realized that it is more effective to deal with such people from the standpoint of professionalism and constructive criticism, without sliding into a controversy about who exactly is to blame for the problem that has arisen. |
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It doesn't come naturally to me but I think the blame game is just a waste of time and it's better to focus on where to go from here. |
I did not succeed immediately, but I think that the game "Who is to blame?" is a waste of time and it is better to focus on finding a solution to the problem. 115942 In contact with Classmates |
All international companies when recruiting new staff, interviews are conducted in English. And since the use of English is very common (“fashionable”) in our country, then - when applying for a job in any serious Russian company, for a good position, you will also be asked to pass an interview in English. Of course, so that you do not have any problems when passing this simple test, it is advisable to prepare for it in advance, to know the possible questions and answers to them.
We have prepared especially for you:
Content:
Interview in English questions and answers
1. Tell me about yourself - Tell me about yourself.A typical question that is asked to all candidates at the beginning of the interview. Your answer should be to the point, tell us how you can be useful to the company.
Answer example:
I’m a seasoned Retail Manager strong in developing training programs and loss prevention techniques that have resulted in revenue savings of over $2.3Million for (employer’s name) during the past 11 years.
2. What Are You Passionate About? - What do you like? This question should be followed by an enthusiastic story about your hobby, which is very interesting and does not take up much of your time.
Answer example:
I'm an avid skier and I like to spend weekends and vacations on the ski slopes.
3. Why do you want this job? - Why do you want to get this job? Talk about the company you are applying for as your dream company, about interesting projects and development.
Answer example:
The work I find most stimulating allows me to use both my creative and research skills. The buzz on this company is that it rewards people who deliver solutions to substantial problems.
4. Why are you leaving your job? Why did you leave your last job? The best option The answer to this question is downsizing or other reasons beyond your control.
Answer example:
I am interested in a job with more responsibility, and I am very ready for a new challenge.
5. How do you handle stress/pressure? How do you deal with stress and anxiety? This question is about stress at work. When answering this question, be sure to give an example from a past job where you brilliantly overcame stress in a beneficial way for the company.
Answer example:
I find a past pace to be invigorating, and thrive when the pressure is on.
6. What is your greatest strength? - what are your strengths? You should not praise yourself too much, but it will also be wrong to underestimate your strengths. Tell everything as it is, but only in relation to the company where you want to get a job.
Answer example:
When I'm working on a project, I don't want just to meet deadlines. Rather, I prefer to complete the project well ahead of schedule. I have exceeded my sales goals every quarter and I've earned a bonus each year since I started with my current employer. My time management skills are excellent and I’m organized, efficient, and take pride in excelling at my work. I pride myself on my customer service skills and my ability to resolve what could be difficult situations.
7. What is your greatest weakness? - What are your weaknesses? When answering this question, choose your weakness, which will relate to your future work only indirectly, and be sure to tell how you deal with this weakness.
Answer example:
When I'm working on a project, I don't want just to meet deadlines. Rather, I prefer to complete the project well ahead of schedule.
8. How do you evaluate success? - How do you evaluate success? Be sure to tell that success for you is the success of your business and your company and do not focus on money.
Answer example:
I evaluate success in different ways. At work, it is meeting the goals set by my supervisors and my fellow workers. It is my understanding, from talking to other employees, that the GGR company is recognized for not only rewarding success, but giving employees the opportunity to grow as well.
9. What Are Your Goals for the Future? - What are your goals for the future? very important question and this question lies precisely in the plane of your future work. Talk about a career in this company, about what you see for yourself great prospects when working in it.
Answer example:
Once I gain additional experience, I would like to move on from a technical position to management.
By the way, to be 100% sure that you will pass the interview in English - look like English courses in Chelyabinsk. Qualified teachers will help you significantly improve your level of English. 
An example of an interview in English with translation
| English interview example: | Interview translation Russian: |
| - Good afternoon! My name is Olga and I am a human manager. | Good afternoon! My name is Olga, I am a HR manager. |
| - Good afternoon! I am Sergey and I"m currently applying for a position of a visa manager with your company. | - Good afternoon. My name is Sergey, I am a candidate for the position of a visitor manager in your company. |
| - Why do you want to work in our company? | - Why do you want to work in our company? |
| - I have a considerable experience in this area; I have worked so far in several travel agencies on similar positions. So, working for your company won't be challenging. I like my job. | - I have significant experience in this area. I have worked in several travel agencies in similar positions (areas). Therefore, working in your company will not be difficult. I like my job. |
| - I see. What was you last work place? | - I see. What was your place of work like? |
| - I worked at Xtur travel agency, which offered tourist voyages over Europe . | - I worked in a travel agency Xtur, which sold tours in Europe. |
| - Why did you leave your job? | Why did you leave your previous job? |
| - The company cut jobs and finally went bankrupt. | The company cut jobs and then went bankrupt. |
| - Tell me, please, about your educational background. | - Tell me, please, about your education. |
| - Well. I graduated from State University in 2011, Faculty of Economics; afterwards I joined a post-graduate course and received a PhD. The thesis was public relations in the sphere of tourism. I also did a management training for the travel agency managers in 2012, for which I "ve got a certificate. | - Good. I graduated from Mrs. University in 2011, Faculty of Economics, then completed his postgraduate studies and received his doctorate. The topic was: Public attitude in the field of tourism. I also completed training at the Management School for Tour Managers. agencies in 2012 and received a certificate. |
| - You received good education. But why this position? Wouldn't you like to work as a university teacher? | - You got a good education. Why do you want this particular position? Why don't you want to work as a teacher at a university? |
| - Yes, I wanted to try this sphere, but the salary is too low there. Therefore, I chose a career in the commercial sector. | - Yes, I wanted to try this area, but the salaries are too low. Therefore, I opted for the commercial sector. |
| - I see. How do you understand your responsibilities? | - I see. How do you understand your responsibilities? |
| - Well. I "m supposed to be in charge of consulting clients on visa regulations in different countries and assisting them in preparing the necessary set of documents. I will also be responsible for visiting embassies, submitting documents and getting visas for the clients or arranging on interview dates for them if needed. | - Good. I should be responsible for advising clients on visa issues for various countries and assisting in the preparation required documents. I will also be responsible for visiting the embassy, providing documents, obtaining visas for clients or specifying dates for obtaining them. |
| - All these require good knowledge of English. As I can see, you know the language very well. But where did you learn it? | - All this requires a good knowledge of English. I see that you know the language well. Where did you teach it? |
| - I graduated from a specialized language school, I also studied English at the university and afterwards I passed a candidate exam of English, had got an excellent mark and did an English course to raise my language level. | - I graduated from a specialized English school, I studied English at the university and passed an exam in it with an excellent mark and took courses to improve my language level. |
| - Thank you. What can you tell me about your character? Everybody has their strong and weak points, how can you describe yourself? | - Thank you. What can you tell me about your character? Everyone has strengths and weaknesses, how would you describe yourself? |
| - Well. I have excellent communication skills. I have good people skills. I "m very helpful. As fro my weak points, I don't like to get up early. But it doesn't mean that I" m not punctual. I "m always on time for work, take my word for that. | - Good. I have excellent communication skills. I communicate well with people. I am very helpful. What about my weaknesses - I do not like to get up early. But that doesn't mean I'm not punctual. I always come to work on time, take my word for it. |
| - Tell me, please, about your family. | - Tell me, please, about your family. |
| - Well. I am single, I have no children. I live in my own flat alone. | - Well, I'm not married, I have no children. I live alone in my apartment. |
| - So, Sergey, it was very nice talking to you. I "m sure you will make a good candidate for this position. But as you might understand to know English means not only to be able to speak fluently, but to write and to understand English. Therefore I must be sure that you have these skills . I "d like you to take a number of tests. When are ready with those, please, give the papers to the office manager. I'll check them later today, and if everything is fine, I'll be in touch soon. | - So, Sergey, it was very pleasant to communicate with you. I'm sure you're a good candidate for this position. But as you already understood, knowledge of English means not only free communication, but also free writing in Nagli. I need to make sure you have these skills. I would like you to take a series of tests. When you are done with them, please give the documents to the office manager. I will check them later and if everything is ok, I will contact you. |
| - Thank you for your time. Hope to hear from you. | - Thank you for your time. Hope to hear from you again. |
| - OK. Have a nice day! good bye. | - OK. Have a good day! Goodbye. |
| - Good bye. | - Goodbye. |
