So you've written a fantastic cover letter and have been invited to the job interview as a result? Congratulations! Then it is now a matter of convincing also in the next step. One thing is clear: interviews in another language are always a special challenge.
But with the right preparation for challenging situations like this, you'll be on the safe side! In addition to dressing appropriately and researching the position, you should also consider how to present yourself confidently in the foreign language. We've put together some phrases for you to use from the moment you walk into the room until the follow-up, that are sure to impress your interviewer. This will definitely bring you one step closer to your dream job!
The start of the conversation
The first meeting is the best time to win over your counterpart right away. Be polite and exude confidence without appearing arrogant when greeting your interviewer. You succeed in this with the following phrases, among others:
- I'm pleased to meet you!
- Thank you for taking the time to meet with me today.
- I really appreciate being considered for this role.
- I'm looking forward to talking about my skills and experience.
Your skills
Make sure that you always focus on your special skills and competencies in all your answers. And don't be afraid to be more specific about a particular skill if you think it is relevant to the position. Explain your educational background and point out any special qualifications that could set you apart from other candidates, such as particularly good language test scores. Conceivable phrases here would be:
- I graduated from…in…with a degree in..
- I am qualified in..
- I completed a course in…which gave me skills in..
- I have an IELTS certificate with a score of..
Previous work experience
When it comes to previous work experience, it's important that you focus primarily on your accomplishments and not just talk about daily tasks in previous positions. If possible, present concrete achievements, for example, how much revenue you have generated or how much money the company has saved through your efforts. The following phrases can help you focus on your strengths:
- In my role at…I succeeded in..
- I am proud of the work I did at..
- An example of a problem that I solved is…
- I consider my strengths to be…and I think these are important for this role because..
- I have a proven track record in..
Questions about your future
When you are asked about your future plans, try to formulate goals that seem achievable in view of the advertised position, even if rather long term. This way you show how motivated you are and that you will take your role very seriously if given the chance. The following phrases might help you here:
- In five years time, I'd like to be responsible for…and I believe this role is the first step to achieving that.
- This role aligns with my long-term career goals, which are..
- I would like to build my career at this company because..
Show curiosity and interest
The interview is slowly coming to an end? This is your chance to take over and ask your interviewer questions about the advertised position and the company. Make sure you have at least a few questions prepared – this will not only show enthusiasm, but will also help you find out more quickly if the job in question is really a good fit for you! If you can't think of any questions, you could also end the interview by reaffirming how well the position fits you and inquiring about what the next steps are. Try the following phrases:
- I was doing some research on the company and I found out….I really admire this, can you explain more about it?
- Can you tell me about the long-term goals for this company??
- Are there any training programs available to employees?
- What do you enjoy most about working here?
- I just want to reiterate again that I think my experience and background really fits this role because..
- Could you explain what the next steps are?
After the interview
Even after the interview there is still time to make a good impression. On the same day, send an email thanking them for the interview and take the opportunity to briefly go over what you think makes you the perfect candidate for the job. The following phrases will make sure you're remembered in a positive way:
- I really enjoyed interviewing for the role at your company.
- I'd be thrilled to work for this organization, and, as mentioned, I feel that my background/skills in…are a great fit for the position.
- Please don't hesitate to reach out if you need anything more from me.
The most important point about your interview is to stay calm – because then you can concentrate and present yourself best. The above phrases will give you the confidence you need to put your best foot forward and, most importantly, highlight your value and accomplishments. And, are you now ready to get your dream job?