Learning the language of business and succeeding in interviews.

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Bridging the gap: Learning the language of business and succeeding in interviews. 

English remains the preferred language for corporate communication in today's business landscape. Therefore, the ability to communicate effectively is highly beneficial for any tech professional seeking to advance their career and participate in the global marketplace.

Tech professionals with strong English communication skills can open themselves to a wider array of opportunities.

Despite the growing demand for English proficiency in the job market, a mere 20% of Latin American professionals possess the requisite level of proficiency, according to a study by OCCEducación. This implies a significant gap between the demand for and supply of English language skills.

Interestingly, Cambridge English's report on language skills in the workplace surveyed thousands of companies across 38 countries and territories and showed that English language skills are fundamental for over 95% of companies, even in non-English-speaking countries and regions.

Boost! provides free English classes every Monday to over 600 students, taught by industry experts and delivered directly to their inbox. Elevate your career with our classes. Upgrade your skills, and gain the confidence to ace any job interview. Enroll now and unlock your full potential!

Begin your job interviews on a strong note.

A survey by Undercover Recruiter found that over 33% of hiring managers decide whether to hire a candidate within the first 90 seconds of meeting them. This means you only have a minute and a half to create a positive and lasting impression.

 Not knowing how to initiate a conversation with your interviewer can be the most detrimental mistake. To avoid awkward silences and increase your chances of acing the interview, here are some example phrases that you can use as a reference:

Follow this formula: Greet + thank the interviewer + express excitement.

Do you fit in with the company? 

Believe it or not, the question "Why do you want to work here?" is essential for a successful interview. The interviewer uses this question to gauge the candidate's interest in the company and position.

It is essential because it helps the interviewer determine if the candidate has researched the company, understands its values, mission, and goals, and if their career aspirations align with the company's objectives.

Moreover, the question allows the candidate to display their enthusiasm for the job and how they can contribute to the company's success.

Improve your job prospects through better conversations.

Interviewers tend to remember job candidates who make a lasting impression. During an interview, it's important to have an engaging conversation between the candidate and the interviewer.

Active listening can be the key to transforming a good interview into a great one. Job seekers who engage in active listening are more likely to be memorable. The only way to engage the interviewer is by paying close attention. With good interview preparation, active listening can take the job seeker one step closer to acing the job interview.

To show that you are actively listening, you can use words such as "absolutely", "of course", and "definitely". Additionally, you can ask common questions to keep the conversation flowing:

📊 POLL OF THE WEEK

We asked: Which new technology would you like to learn more about?

You answered: 

Don't miss the chance to vote on this week's poll!

🔥 HOT JOBS OF THE WEEK

• 🖥️ As a Senior Lead Frontend Engineer (React/Next.js) in a top-tier web development company, you will create unique, award-winning websites surpassing competitors. Earn a salary of $6,500 to $8,500 for your exceptional skills and expertise.

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✍️ QUOTE OF THE WEEK

🇺🇸 “The expert in anything was once a beginner.” – Helen Hayes, American actress.

🇧🇷 “O especialista em qualquer coisa já foi um iniciante.” 

🌎 “El experto en cualquier cosa alguna vez fue un principiante.” 

This quote is a great source of inspiration for those embarking on a new path or learning a new skill. Every expert was once a beginner, and they went through a process of learning, practicing, and improving over time.

No one is born an expert; becoming one takes time and effort. Don't be discouraged by your lack of experience or knowledge initially; keep working.

Making mistakes, struggling with skills, and experiencing slow progress is to be expected. But if you persist, you too can become an expert.

I hope you enjoyed this week's edition! Have questions or topic suggestions? Let's chat! Remember to check out our Discord channel, where you can join a thriving community of 450+ LATAM professionals who discuss career tips and networking opportunities. We're here to help you soar to the top. 

Stephanie Cerf - Head of Community at TECLA.