Job hunting is often a full time job unto itself and with cultural differences, there are many other obstacles and challenges to consider. Here, we offer you 12 pieces of advice (for non-native English speakers—and even for non-native speakers!) on improving English language skills, writing effective resumes and cover letters, and preparing for interviews:
Improving English Language Skills
Practice Speaking Regularly
- Engage in conversations in English, join language exchange programs, or find public speaking opportunities (many colleges offer courses with such a component) to build confidence and fluency.Expand Your Vocabulary
- Use apps like [Anki ](https://apps.ankiweb.net/)or [Memrise](https://www.memrise.com/en-us/) to learn new words daily. Reading books, newspapers, and professional articles (especially aloud!) can also help improve your vocabulary.Watch English Media
- Watch English movies, TV shows, and news programs to familiarize yourself with different accents, idiomatic expressions, and conversational styles. Using subtitles can also help you with spelling and reading speed.Take English Language Courses
- Enroll in [ESL](https://educationusa.state.gov/your-5-steps-us-study/research-your-options/english-language/english-language-esl-programs) (English as a Second Language) courses, either online or in-person, to improve your grammar, pronunciation, and overall language proficiency.Writing Effective Resumes and Cover Letters
Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter
- Customize your resume and cover letter for each job application. Highlight relevant experience, skills, and achievements that match the job description.
- Using the [FrogHire.ai](https://www.froghire.ai/) extension, you will be able to edit your resume alongside each job post, allowing you to easily customize your application!Use Clear and Concise Language
- Avoid complex sentences and jargon.
- Use bullet points and short paragraphs to to focus your resume for HR professionals who are doing a “quick read”.Seek Feedback
- Have your resume and cover letter reviewed by native speakers or professional resume writers.
- If you still have access to your school’s services, your university Career Services Center should offer resume review opportunities.Showcase Your Accomplishments
- Use quantifiable metrics to demonstrate your achievements. For example, "Increased sales for a team of six by 20% in eight months” is more impactful than "Responsible for increasing sales."Preparing for Interviews
Practice Common Interview Questions
- Prepare answers to common interview questions and practice them aloud. Speaking aloud helps you become more comfortable speaking about your experiences and skills--rehearsing answers in your head is not the same as speaking them aloud!
- Doing this in front of a camera will also allow you to see how you present yourself (e.g., do you have an odd ‘tick’ that you need to quell?).- Record your practice interviews to identify areas for improvement in your pronunciation, fluency, and body language.Learn Key Industry Terminology
- Familiarize yourself with terms and jargon specific to your industry, and make sure you review the job post in detail before your interview. You want to be knowledgeable and well-prepared.Stay Calm and Confident
- Use relaxation techniques such as deep breathing to manage interview anxiety. Confidence in your abilities will help you communicate more effectively.TLDR: Taking a proactive approach to job search readiness can help non-native speakers improve their English language skills, create effective job application materials, and perform well in interviews. Make sure to download the FrogHire.ai extension — the personal dashboard will allow you to track and search for open positions across all five major job-posting platforms while also allowing you to filter for employers who are open to work sponsorship for non-domestic workers!
