Do you have a job interview coming up? This checklist is written to help non-native English speakers interviewing in English-speaking countries to perform well and get the job.
I didn’t want to repeat the same things that are in other checklists, so I’m just going to add the things that I think non-native speakers in particular should do.
Before the interview
1. Practice answering common interview questions
- General/basic questions
- Behavioral questions
- Questions related to your CV/experience
Write down your answers and then say them out loud in front of a mirror or video camera. By writing and speaking your answers, you’ll hear how they sound and can refine them.
Conduct a mock (practice) interview with someone.
2. Prepare a list of questions to ask the interviewer
3. Prepare for the short pre-interview chat
- Read the news.
- Have a list of questions or topics to discuss if the conversation slows down.
4. Evaluate your English
You prepared for the questions and the short talk. How did it go? Were you able to say what you needed to say in English? If not, consider a quick, intensive review of your English before the interview.
Dust off your old English textbooks or work with a teacher for a short practice session. Don’t let your English difficulties make you seem less professional.
5. Prepare your clothes
They must be appropriate for the job, the company, and the industry.
Research the company culture if necessary.
Prepare each element of your outfit, including shoes, socks, tie, and accessories. Everything should be clean and wrinkle-free.
Don’t wait until the day of the interview, because your clothes will be the first thing they see.
On the day of the interview
6. Don’t wear cologne/aftershave/perfume
Many people are sensitive to fragrances, especially in small offices.
7. Don’t smoke
Many people dislike the smell of cigarette smoke, so avoid it.
8. Arrive about 10 minutes early, but no more.
If you are late, call the company.
9. Greet the receptionist or assistant politely.
Remember, once you enter the building, you are making an impression.
At the beginning of the interview
10. Give a proper handshake
Use a firm grip. If you’re not used to shaking hands, practice beforehand.
11. Give a polite greeting, while shaking hands or just before or after.
12. Make eye contact
13. Smile
14. Project confidence and professionalism
15. Sit down only after being offered a seat
16. Be aware of your body language
17. Prepare for a short talk
The interview may start with small talk. Many English-speaking cultures include some casual conversation before getting to business, but it depends on the interviewer’s style.
During the interview
You will be evaluated on what you say and how you say it. This means thinking about your content and also how you appear while speaking.
18. Avoid negativity
Don’t say anything bad about previous jobs or coworkers.
19. Stick to safe topics
No politics, religion, personal problems, or family issues. Don’t mention family unless asked directly. In English-speaking countries, we generally don’t discuss family with strangers, including interviewers. Keep this in mind.
20. Give short answers
30 to 45 seconds per answer is ideal. Practice your interview questions so there are no surprises.
21. Keep your answers focused
Know what you want to say and say it clearly. If the interviewer wants more information, they’ll ask.
22. Be proud of yourself
The goal of an interview is to show that you are the best person for the job. You demonstrate this through clothes, body language, and words. Many people find it difficult to talk positively about themselves, especially in cultures where modesty is emphasized.
Interviewers expect candidates to discuss strengths and accomplishments. If you don’t share your experience, they won’t know it.
23. Ask questions
You don’t have to wait until the end. Asking questions throughout shows interest. Prepare a list beforehand about the job, team, or company.
24. Don’t ask inappropriate questions
Avoid asking about salary, benefits, or vacation. These topics can be discussed if the interviewer raises them, but asking first may seem unprofessional.
Be ready if asked about salary requirements.
25. Body language:
- Think about your posture: sit up straight.
- Keep gestures minimal.
- Do not cross your arms.
- Avoid fidgeting.
- Appear interested.
- Approach, but not too close.
- Angle your shoulders toward the interviewer.
- Maintain eye contact.
- Smile at appropriate moments.
26. Pay attention to your language
- Avoid filler words like “um,” “uh,” “like,” or “you know.”
- Avoid slang.
At the end of the interview
27. Ask any remaining questions
Even if you asked earlier, asking one or two questions at the end shows interest and preparation.
28. Express strong interest in the job and ask about next steps
29. Thank the interviewer and shake hands if offered
Follow the interviewer’s lead when saying goodbye.
30. If you don’t have their contact information, request a business card
After the interview
31. If possible, send a thank-you note within 24 hours to everyone you interviewed with.
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