How to feel positive as a non-native speaker in your English interview

Do you have an interview coming up but you feel nervous that you don’t speak good enough english for interviews? You want this job, but you are scared you will miss the opportunity because you don’t speak english confidently?

I know it’s easy to think your English will prevent you from getting the job. Maybe you have these common negative thoughts:

1. What if I won’t understand the interviewer or their question?
2. What if the interviewer won’t understand my accent?
3. I don’t have the vocabulary to express myself

But let’s talk about how to get rid of these negative thoughts and replace them with more positive ones. It’s time to change your perspective and look for the positive sides of being a non-native speaker.

Negative thought: I won’t understand the interviewer

Do you already communicate in English at your current job? Have you spoken with other English speakers before? If the answer is yes to one of these questions, then your fear likely unfounded. 

When you already speak to other English speakers and you understand them. Why should this one be different? 

In addition, it’s crucial to remember that interviews are conversations. If you don’t understand one part, just ask them to repeat or rephrase the question.

Positive advantage: I will listen more closely

Because interviews are two-way conversations, listening is important, and something people often neglect. 

If you prepare all your answers before and deliver them without reacting to the interviewer, you will lose their interest quickly. By listening closely, you will be able to engage in a conversation and connect.

Because you are a non-native, you will pay more attention to the interviewer and be able to react appropriately. 

Negative thought: The interviewer won’t understand my accent

If you speak with an accent, which mostly everyone does, then you might feel shy when speaking. 

But again, you have communicated in English before, right? 

Interviewers are not different from you or me, they speak and listen just like everyone else.

Positive advantage: Accents show I am courageous

Everyone knows that learning a second language is difficult. Instead of feeling shy and ashamed of your accent, feel pride in your ability to communicate in another language.

If you show confidence in your ability and speak without embarrassment, your interview will show you the respect you deserve. 

If there is a small misunderstanding, they will not be afraid to ask for clarification. Mutual respect will lead to a strong conversation and, in fact, help you impress your interviewers.

Remember, do not apologize for your accent. Show that you comfortable and repeat yourself if there are any misunderstandings. Patience will be your friend in an interview.

Negative thought: I don’t have the vocabulary to express myself

You’re in the interview and speaking normally, until you come to sudden stop. Suddenly, you can’t think of the word you want to say. 

It’s easy to panic in these situations, but it’s important to breathe and overcome the initial fear. 

Forgetting a word can happen, but you will be ready to use different words to express your ideas. 

Positive advantage: I will be well-prepared

Because you are speaking in your non-native language, you will prepare yourself to answer common interview questions.

In fact, you will prepare more than most native speakers. 

Being prepared will help you avoid making common interview mistakes to improve your chances of getting the job.

Again, if you find yourself forgetting a word remember to breathe and say “excuse me.” Then continue normally with different words. Mistakes are not a sign of weakness. They are opportunities to improve.

Your concern about expressing yourself will lead you to prepare more, and be ready for situations where you encounter difficult words or phrases.

The bottom line

Use your fear to your advantage. Take any negative thoughts you have and think about them differently. 

Ask yourself this: How is my English proficiency an advantage for this job? 

Above all, remember that you speak at least two languages. In today’s business world, this will always be a valuable skill.

Often, our fears come from our panic and nerves. Rarely will our fears come true in the actual interview. It’s up to you to prepare yourself for every situation and find the way to trust in your abilities. Here is a free interview preparation guide to help you get ready for your big day.