Interviewer: In your previous job, how often did you use English?
Jon: To be honest, I did not use English a lot. Occasionally, I had to write an email in English or participate in a conference call in English.
Interviewer: Well, in this job, you will need to use English daily. Would you feel comfortable doing that?
Jon: Absolutely. I have been preparing for a position like this for years. I’ve been taking an English class every weekday for 2 years, and I study English on my own every day. One of the main reasons that I am applying for this job is that I want a chance to use my English skills in business.
Interviewer: I see. It seems like your English is perfect.
Jon: Thank you very much. I am happy to hear you say that because I have put a lot of time and effort into learning English.
Interviewer: So, what is your native language?
Jon: I grew up in Colombia, so my first language is Spanish, but I have been learning English since I was in elementary school. I also speak some Mandarin.
Patterns and Examples
At my last job, I used English ____________________. I ____________________.
- At my last job, I used English a lot. I had to give presentations in English, and I had to call and email many international clients in English.
- At my last job, I used English occasionally. I had to email or meet with engineers from America a few times each year.
I ____________________ used English in my last job. I ____________________.
- I almost always used English in my last job. I was in charge of the North American market, so most of my clients were native English speakers.
- I sometimes used English in my last job. I attended a lot of seminars and conferences where everybody spoke in English.
I ____________________ used English at my last job, but ____________________.
- I never used English at my last job, but I practice English every day, so I have to the English skills necessary to succeed in this position.
- I rarely used English at my last job, but I have experience using English earlier in my career.
