Urgh, English. Do you really need to speak English in job interviews?
Well, it depends. Which job are you applying for? You should also check the company. Which company? Multinational corporations (MNCs) and private companies need you to speak English, especially if you are applying for executive level and above.
Why? Because you will need to read and understand a lot of references. References such as policies, manuals, meeting minutes, and emails are written in English. Not just that, customers and suppliers use English to communicate.
MNCs involve other countries than Malaysia so they will speak English too, so if you’re looking for a job in an MNC, you should try to improve your English skills.
If you’re thinking of working as a supervisor or a technician, the ability to speak English will also be an advantage for you. It will make it easier for you to communicate with clients and visitors. Not to mention that manuals are mainly written in English.
Improve your English skills, and you can become The One.
But,
Do you really need to speak perfect English in your interview?
No, you don’t really have to. As long as you have no problem understanding what the interviewer is talking about, the interviewers will understand you.
So don’t be afraid if you can’t speak perfect English. Build your confidence, relax, and do your best. Do not think too much, tackle the questions one by one.
If you don’t know what to say in English, then you can say it in Bahasa Malaysia or any language you are comfortable with. Most interviewers understand, and they will do their best to understand you and they will also help you to translate it into English.
Remember, interviewers can ‘feel’ if you are nervous.
Before the interview starts, you can ask for permission to speak a language other than English, for example: “If it’s okay with you, can I speak in Bahasa / Mandarin? I’ll be able to answer your questions better that way.”
After all, you should feel comfortable with the language of your choice.
Speak English with Confidence
Here are unique ways you can build confidence when speaking english:
Record yourself speaking english
I know, it’s not comfortable to hear your own voice, but this is an important step. It can help you to work on how you say certain English words. You can also watch youtube videos on how to say some English words that you don’t know.
Speak slowly
Sometimes we panic, and we speak too fast. Too fast that we stopped saying words and start to ‘merapu’. So, slow down. It’s not easy, but you can practice by taking a few seconds to think about what you are going to say. That’s how slowly become confident at speaking English.
Dictionary is your friend.
Practice reading out loud
When you are reading a book or a newspaper, stand in front of a mirror and read it out loud. Focus on how you say the words, and when you are more confident, read for a friend or your family.
Smile when you’re speaking
It sounds weird, but smiling can make you feel more relaxed when you speak. Smiling can also make you feel more confident.
Take deep breaths
When you speak English too fast, or if you’re starting to ‘gagap’, take a long, deep breath. This will make you calm down and focused.
Now, you are ready to go to job interviews and speak English with confidence. If you are still looking for a job, just go to Maukerja and apply for your dream job!
Remember, you don’t just speak English with confidence in one day. Confidence takes time, practice and patience.
