Job interviews are stressful, even in your own language. In English, they are harder.
Many learners know a lot of English, but they are not sure which phrases are safe to use in a job interview. Some phrases sound confident. Others sound weak or unprofessional.
This page lists English phrases I would let my own students use in job interviews.
English phrases that are safe for job interviews
English phrases that are safe for job interviews
The phrases below are grouped by situation, such as agreeing, disagreeing, asking for clarification, and buying time.
If English is not your first language, confidence often drops during interviews because you are unsure what to say. These phrases are chosen to help you respond clearly and professionally without overthinking your English.
Start with the sections that match the questions you expect in your interview.
Work English that sounds natural and professional
A short PDF with the phrases I actually let my private students use at work. Pick a phrase, use it today, and feel more confident in meetings and emails.
How to agree with somebody
I can’t help thinking the same
Meaning: when the interviewer expresses a viewpoint or opinion, and you agree with it
Examples:
I can’t help thinking the same. Yes, it will be a great idea to improve marketing by doing something creative.
I can’t help thinking the same. Remote work can indeed provide a focused environment.
true enough
Meaning: to acknowledge a point that the interviewer has made
Examples:
True enough, being adaptable can lead to success in today’s dynamic work environment.
True enough, working together can really boost results.
that’s right
Meaning: to indicate that the information they provided is accurate
Examples:
That’s right. That’s what they do. If we want to get to them, we need to have a presence online where they’re active.
That’s right, I’ve used Excel extensively for various data analysis tasks in my previous role.
I couldn’t agree more
Meaning: when you want to emphasise that you agree with what they’ve said
Examples:
I couldn’t agree more – we need to establish a strong online presence where they’re active.
I couldn’t agree more. Effective communication is essential in any successful team.
that’s just what I was thinking
Meaning: express agreement with sth the interviewer has mentioned
Examples:
That’s just what I was thinking. Remote collaboration can really help build a strong sense of teamwork and efficiency.
That’s just what I was thinking. Innovation is key to staying ahead in the industry, and I’m excited to bring fresh ideas to the team.
Useful Speaking Phrases For Job Interviews
How to disagree with someone
I don’t entirely agree with you
Meaning: when you want to express a level of disagreement while maintaining professionalism and respect for the interviewer’s viewpoint
Examples:
I appreciate the emphasis on efficiency, but I don’t entirely agree with you.
I don’t entirely agree with you. Hierarchies can be good, but I think working together as a team can help us come up with better and more creative solutions.
I’m not sure about that
Meaning: you are uncertain about a particular piece of information
Examples:
I’m not sure about that, as my experience suggests there could be more effective options.
I’m not sure about that. Perhaps I need some time to think about it.
I see things rather differently myself
Meaning: when you want to express a contrasting viewpoint in a professional manner
Examples:
I see things rather differently myself, but I understand where you’re coming from.
I see things rather differently myself. While speed is important, I also believe in thoroughly addressing the root causes to ensure long-term customer satisfaction.
actually
Meaning: express a polite disagreement or provide a different perspective
Examples:
Actually, I believe that while deadlines are important, a more flexible approach can sometimes lead to better creativity.
Actually, I believe exploring new approaches could bring about better results.
Ask for clarification or repetition
let me get this right
Meaning: seek clarification or confirm your understanding of something that was said
Examples:
Let me get this right: this position involves overseeing regional offices with 10 direct reports?
Here are some other phrases you could use to ask for clarification in a job interview:
- Would you mind repeating that, please?
- Pardon?
- I’m afraid I didn’t catch that
Saying something in a different way
how can I best say this
Meaning: you’re looking for a more effective or tactful way to express sth
Example:
How can I best say this? What I would actually like is a little bit of time to consider your offer.
perhaps I should make that clearer by saying…
Meaning: you realise that your previous statement might have been unclear or misunderstood, and you want to rephrase it to provide a clearer explanation
Example:
Perhaps I should make that clear by saying that I’m actually seeking a job with a bit more responsibility.
Other phrases that you could use to say something in a different way:
- What I’m trying to say is …
- What I mean is…
- In other words
English phrases that are safe for job interviews
Giving yourself time to think
The last section is about giving yourself time to think. This is very important during interviews because sometimes you’re ready, but other times you might not be fully ready, or they might ask unexpected questions.
Here are some phrases that you could use to give yourself those vital 10-15 seconds to gather your thoughts:
- May I think about that for a moment?
- Let me see (in response to a question)
- How can I put this?
- I guess…
- It is my understanding
- The way I see it…
Alright, so here are useful speaking phrases for job interviews in English.
As always, if you need extra assistance or suggestions, feel free to reach out to me at www.englishlessonviaskype.com. I’m more than happy to assist you.
This is Harry saying goodbye. Thanks for listening and watching. Remember to join me for the next lesson.
speak better English with Harry podcast- episode 444
more information
For more information on English grammar rules, English collocations and English idioms, check out the links below:
How to talk about money in English
Phrasal verbs about crime and scam
You can always study English advanced level at Learning English with the BBC and British Council Learn English.
