Stop Doing These 3 Things in Your English Job Interview
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You’ve prepared your answers. You’ve practised your grammar. But somehow… when the interview starts, you freeze, hesitate, or don’t sound confident. Why?
It’s not your vocabulary. It’s not your accent. It might be one of these simple mistakes — and they could be costing you the job.
Let’s fix that today.
This is Keith from Keith Speaking Academy and English Speaking Success — and if you’re preparing for a job interview in English, especially in an international company, you’re in the right place.
International Interviews Are Different
Giving an interview in English is already a challenge.
But what many candidates don’t realise is that international workplaces often follow different rules and expectations. What works in your country might not work in a global interview setting.
So it’s not just about improving your English — you need the right interview technique.
Here are three common mistakes to avoid, and a powerful bonus tip at the end that could change the way you prepare for interviews forever.
Hiding Your Personality
A lot of candidates focus on saying the right thing… and forget to show their true personality.
But in international companies, employers want more than just correct answers. They want to see enthusiasm, curiosity, and your ability to connect with people. In fact, your communication style and soft skills matter just as much as your qualifications.
Example – “Why do you want to work here?”
❌ Your company is one of the leading companies in the world, and I want to grow professionally and contribute to your success.
Sounds nice, but it’s generic and forgettable.
✅ I saw that your company is expanding into new markets in Asia, and I think that’s really exciting. I’m interested in international business, and I’d love to be part of a team that’s growing and doing innovative things.
Much better — this shows:
- You’ve done your research
- You’re genuinely interested
- You’ve got personality!
Sounding Scripted
Many English learners memorise their answers. The result? They sound robotic, overly formal, or just unnatural.
Interviewers notice this. It feels like you’re reading a CV, not having a conversation.
Example – “Tell me about yourself”
❌ My name is Tom. I am 28 years old. I am a hardworking, reliable, and responsible person. I always take a problem-solving approach to my work.
That’s not you — that’s ChatGPT!
✅ Sure! I’m Tom, originally from London. I’ve been working in customer service for the past three years, and I’ve learned that I really enjoy solving problems and helping people. I’m now looking to join a company where I can use those skills in a more international environment.
Much better. This version:
- Feels natural
- Includes real experience
- Creates connection
Pro tip: Don’t memorise whole answers. Memorise flexible phrases and practice speaking with real people or recording yourself answering surprise questions.
Weak Closings
At the end of most interviews, you’ll hear:
“Do you have any questions for us?”
This is a golden opportunity to stand out — but many candidates freeze or say something weak like,
❌ No, I think I’m fine.
Wrong move.
Great questions show you’re interested, confident, and serious about the job.
✅ Try something like:
What would success look like in this job?
What do you think are the biggest challenges of this role?
What do you enjoy most about working here?
These questions show you’re curious, proactive, and thinking like a team member — not just a candidate.
Pro tip: Record Yourself.
Most learners never listen to how they speak — and that’s why the same mistakes happen again and again. Try recording your answers and listening back. You’ll instantly hear what to improve: pronunciation, tone, pauses, and more.
How to Boost Your Interview Confidence?
These are just 3 common mistakes — but there are many more. That’s why I created my 10-Day Job Interview Challenge: a short, focused challenge to help you prepare for your English job interview with more confidence, clarity, and fluency.
Each day gives you tips, techniques, and real practice to help you shine in your next job interview — no matter where in the world you’re applying.
👉 Click here to check out the 10-Day Challenge
Over to you
Which of these mistakes have you made before?
Or what’s your biggest struggle in English job interviews?
Drop a comment below — I’d love to hear from you.
And if you found this post helpful, feel free to share it with a friend preparing for a job interview too. Let’s help each other grow!
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