Language
Barriers
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If you are still
struggling with English, consider
these other tips:
Before the interview:
Memorize answers
to common and difficult questions
after having someone edit your
responses for grammar.
Write down a
few notes to yourself that
you can refer to during the
interview if you get intimidated.
Prepare and memorize
questions that you wish to
ask the interviewer.
During the
interview:
Remember that
you are a qualified person
who speaks more than one language-an
accomplishment that many interviewers
cannot claim for themselves.
If you do not
understand a question during
the interview, ask the interviewer
to clarify the question. You
might begin by saying, "I
want to make sure that I understand
what you mean. Are you saying.
. .?"
Address your
language proficiency in the
interview, mentioning to the
interviewer how you make certain
that you understand instructions
and giving examples of working
situations in which you excelled
despite limitations in English.
Do this casually if possible.
Tell the employer
about your plans to take advanced
English classes or tutoring
in the evenings.
Take notes.
Summarize what
the interviewer says at the
end of the interview, touching
on the important responsibilities
of the job and needs of the
company. Briefly repeat how
you could meet these needs.
Inquire into when you can expect
to hear from the company.
After
the interview:
Be sure to write a
thank you note that highlights your
fit with the position. Repeat what
you have to offer the company and
what enthuses you about the company.
Be sure to have someone edit the
note for grammar before you send
it. This way, the lasting impression
of you should focus on your abilities
and not your English.