Job interviews are one of the most important moments in your professional life, and using the right English can make a big difference. In this lesson, we’ll look at useful Business English vocabulary and practical examples to help you confidently ask and answer common interview questions.
1. Introducing yourself
Common question: “Can you tell me about yourself?”
This is often the first question, and it’s your chance to make a strong impression.
Useful vocabulary:
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background (n): your education and work experience
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current position (n): the job you have now
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responsibilities (n): things you are in charge of at work
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career goals (n): what you want to achieve professionally
Example answer:
“I have a background in marketing and currently work as a digital marketing specialist. My responsibilities include managing online campaigns and analyzing market data. My career goal is to grow into a management role and lead a creative team.”
Tip: Keep your answer short (1–2 minutes) and focus on your professional life, not personal details.
2. Talking about strengths and weaknesses
Common questions:
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“What are your strengths?”
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“What is your greatest weakness?”
Useful vocabulary:
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detail-oriented (adj): careful and precise
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team player (n): someone who works well with others
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problem-solving skills (n): ability to find solutions
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perfectionist (n): someone who wants everything to be perfect
Example answers:
“One of my strengths is being detail-oriented. I always double-check my work to ensure accuracy.”
“My greatest weakness is that I can be a perfectionist, but I’m learning to manage my time better by setting realistic goals.”
Tip: When mentioning a weakness, always show how you are improving it.
3. Describing your experience
Common question: “Can you describe your previous work experience?”
Useful vocabulary:
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achieve targets (v): reach goals or objectives
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handle projects (v): manage and complete tasks
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collaborate (v): work together with others
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lead a team (v): manage a group of people
Example answer:
“In my last job, I handled several marketing projects and collaborated with the sales team to achieve our quarterly targets. I also led a team of three junior marketers.”
Tip: Use strong action verbs (handled, achieved, managed, led) to show confidence and competence.
4. Explaining why you want the job
Common question: “Why do you want to work here?”
Useful vocabulary:
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company culture (n): the values and atmosphere of a company
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professional growth (n): opportunities to develop your career
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values (n): beliefs or principles
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industry leader (n): a top company in its field
Example answer:
“I admire your company’s culture of innovation and teamwork. I believe this position offers great opportunities for professional growth, and I want to contribute my skills to a company that’s an industry leader.”
Tip: Research the company before the interview so you can mention specific details.
5. Asking your own questions
At the end of the interview, you’ll often be asked:
“Do you have any questions for us?”
Useful questions to ask:
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“Can you tell me more about the team I would be working with?”
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“What are the main goals for this position in the first six months?”
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“How do you define success in this role?”
Useful vocabulary:
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expectations (n): what is required or hoped for
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performance review (n): an evaluation of your work
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company vision (n): the long-term goals of a company
Tip: Always ask at least one question — it shows interest and confidence.
6. Practice activity
Try answering these questions aloud or with a partner:
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Tell me about yourself.
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What are your strengths and weaknesses?
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Why do you want to work for this company?
Record your answers, listen again, and note which words or sentences can be improved.
Repetition helps you remember vocabulary and sound more natural.
Key takeaway
To succeed in English job interviews, focus on clear structure, confident tone, and professional vocabulary. Practice speaking naturally using phrases from this lesson until they feel comfortable.
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