Your pronunciation during a job interview can make or break your first impression. Studies show that clear pronunciation increases perceived competence and trustworthiness. This guide covers the 25 most important words to pronounce correctly in professional settings.
Personal Introduction Words
You'll use these words when introducing yourself:
Skills and Abilities
Words commonly used to describe qualifications:
Company and Business Terms
Essential business vocabulary:
Achievement Words
Words to describe your accomplishments:
Common Interview Phrases
Practice these complete phrases:
Commonly Mispronounced Interview Words
| Word | Wrong | Correct |
|---|---|---|
| comfortable | /kəmˈfɔːrtəbəl/ | /ˈkʌmftəbəl/ (3 syllables) |
| colleague | /kəˈliːɡ/ | /ˈkɒliːɡ/ (stress on first) |
| schedule | /ˈskɛdjuːl/ | /ˈʃɛdjuːl/ (SH sound) |
| thorough | /θəˈroʊ/ | /ˈθʌrə/ (2 syllables) |
| hierarchy | /haɪˈɑːrki/ | /ˈhaɪərɑːrki/ (4 syllables) |
| entrepreneur | /ɛntrəprəˈnɜːr/ | /ˌɒntrəprəˈnɜːr/ (French origin) |
Practice Sentences for Interviews
Read these aloud until they feel natural:
- "I have five years of experience in project management."
- "I was responsible for a team of ten colleagues."
- "I successfully implemented a new strategy."
- "My strengths include attention to detail and enthusiasm."
- "I'm comfortable working with tight schedules."
- "I achieved significant improvements in efficiency."
Tips for Interview Pronunciation
- Slow down: Speaking slightly slower improves clarity
- Pause: Brief pauses between ideas help comprehension
- Practice: Record yourself answering common questions
- Breathe: Deep breaths help reduce nervous speed
Clear pronunciation shows professionalism and preparation. Practice these words daily before your interview!