Interview Vocabulary: Words Related to Job Interviews is designed to help students and job seekers succeed in interviews by learning important English words and phrases. Job interviews require clear communication, confidence, and the right vocabulary. This topic covers common interview terms related to skills, experience, strengths, weaknesses, and professional behavior. It is especially useful for fresh graduates, ESL learners, and working professionals preparing for interviews. Written in simple and practical English, this guide helps learners answer questions confidently, understand interview instructions, and make a strong impression during job interviews.
This topic is part of our English Vocabulary for English learners.
Before the Interview
Application: The form you fill out when you want a job. It usually asks for your personal information, work history, and education.
Resume/CV: A document that lists your work experience, education, and skills. A resume is typically 1-2 pages, while a CV (Curriculum Vitae) is longer and includes more details about your academic background.
Cover Letter: A letter you send with your resume to explain why you want the job and why you would be good at it.
Job Description: A written explanation of what the job involves, including responsibilities, required skills, and qualifications.
Qualifications: The skills, education, or experience you need for a job.
References: People who can talk about your work abilities and character. Often former employers or teachers.
Screening Call: A short phone call before the main interview to check if you meet the basic requirements for the job.
Types of Interviews
One-on-One Interview: An interview with just you and one interviewer.
Panel Interview: When several people interview you at the same time.
Group Interview: When several candidates are interviewed together.
Virtual Interview: An interview conducted online using video technology like Zoom or Microsoft Teams.
Behavioral Interview: An interview where you’re asked to describe how you handled situations in the past.
Technical Interview: An interview that tests your technical skills, often used for jobs in IT, engineering, or science.
Assessment: A test given during the interview process to measure your skills, personality, or abilities.
During the Interview
Introductions: The beginning of the interview where you meet the interviewer(s) and exchange greetings.
Small Talk: Light, friendly conversation before getting to the main interview questions.
Hiring Manager: The person who will make the final decision about hiring you.
Recruiter: A person whose job is to find suitable candidates for open positions.
HR (Human Resources): The department that handles hiring, employee benefits, and workplace policies.
Strengths: Your positive qualities and skills that make you good at a job.
Weaknesses: Areas where you need improvement. In interviews, it’s good to mention weaknesses you’re working on improving.
Work Ethic: Your attitude toward work, including how hard you work and how reliable you are.
Company Culture: The values, behaviors, and atmosphere of a workplace.
Team Player: Someone who works well with others.
Problem-Solving Skills: Your ability to find solutions to difficulties or challenges.
Communication Skills: Your ability to speak, write, listen, and share information clearly.
Time Management: How well you organize your time and complete tasks by deadlines.
Multitasking: Working on several tasks at the same time.
Leadership: The ability to guide and motivate others.
Soft Skills: Personal qualities like communication, teamwork, and adaptability.
Hard Skills: Specific, teachable abilities like using certain software, speaking a foreign language, or operating machinery.
Transferable Skills: Skills from previous jobs or experiences that can be useful in a new position.
Common Interview Questions
Tell me about yourself: A common opening question where you briefly describe your background and relevant experience.
Why do you want this job?: The interviewer wants to know your motivation for applying.
Why should we hire you?: Your chance to explain what makes you the best candidate.
Where do you see yourself in five years?: A question about your career goals and ambitions.
What are your salary expectations?: A question about how much money you want to earn.
Situational Question: A question that asks how you would handle a specific situation.
Follow-up Question: An additional question that builds on your previous answer.
After the Interview
Thank You Note/Email: A short message you send after the interview to thank the interviewer for their time.
Follow-Up: Contacting the employer after the interview to check on the status of your application.
Job Offer: When a company offers you a job.
Negotiation: The discussion about salary, benefits, and other job conditions.
Benefits Package: Additional advantages offered with a job, such as health insurance, retirement plans, or paid time off.
Starting Date: The day you will begin working at the new job.
Probation Period: A trial period at the beginning of a new job where your performance is evaluated.
Onboarding: The process of introducing new employees to the company and training them.
Positive Interview Outcomes
Short List: A reduced list of candidates being seriously considered for the job.
Second Interview: An additional interview after the first one, often with different people or to discuss more specific details.
Background Check: When the employer checks your criminal record, education, and previous employment.
Reference Check: When the employer contacts your references to ask about your work performance.
Conditional Offer: A job offer that depends on certain conditions, like passing a background check or drug test.
Formal Offer: The official job offer, usually in writing, with details about the position and compensation.
Acceptance: When you agree to take the job.
Contract: A legal document that outlines the terms of your employment.
Negative Interview Outcomes
Rejection: When the employer decides not to hire you.
Form Rejection: A standard rejection message sent to all unsuccessful candidates.
Ghosting: When an employer stops communicating with you without explanation.
Overqualified: Having more skills or experience than needed for the job, which might make employers worry you’ll leave quickly.
Underqualified: Not having enough skills or experience for the job.
Feedback: Comments from the interviewer about why you weren’t selected or how you could improve.
Tips for Interview Success
Research: Learning about the company before your interview.
Prepare: Getting ready for the interview by practicing answers and planning questions.
Professional Attire: Proper clothing for an interview, usually more formal than everyday clothes.
Body Language: How you communicate through posture, facial expressions, and gestures.
Eye Contact: Looking directly at the interviewer when speaking or listening, which shows confidence and interest.
Active Listening: Paying close attention to what the interviewer is saying.
Ask Questions: Preparing thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer, which shows your interest in the position.
Follow Instructions: Doing exactly what the interviewer asks during any assessments or tasks.
Final Thoughts
Understanding interview vocabulary can make the job search process less intimidating.
By familiarizing yourself with these terms, you’ll be better prepared to navigate interviews confidently.
Remember, practice makes perfect!
The more interviews you do, the more comfortable you’ll become with these terms and the interview process in general.
Job hunting requires patience and persistence.
Even if you don’t get the first job you interview for, each interview is valuable experience that will help you improve for the next one.
Good luck with your job search!
