Vocabulary: Job Applications and Interviews

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1. Application Documents & Preparation

VocabularyDefinitionExample in Context
Resume (CV)A document summarizing education, work experience, and skills.I attached my resume to the job application.
Cover LetterA letter explaining why the candidate is suitable for the job.I wrote a detailed cover letter to introduce myself to the employer.
QualificationsEducation, skills, or certifications needed for a job.She has the right qualifications for the position.
SkillsAbilities acquired through training or experience.He has excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
ExperiencePrevious work or practice in a job or field.Her five years of marketing experience make her a great candidate.
ReferencesPeople who can vouch for your work experience and abilities.I provided two references from my previous jobs.

2. Interview Process

VocabularyDefinitionExample in Context
InterviewA formal meeting where a candidate answers job-related questions.I have an interview scheduled for Thursday.
Behavioral InterviewAn interview focusing on how a candidate handled past situations.The behavioral interview asked about how I manage conflicts.
Panel InterviewAn interview conducted by multiple interviewers.The panel interview included the HR manager and department heads.
Job OfferA formal offer from a company to hire someone.I received a job offer two days after my second interview.
Background CheckA review of a candidate’s work history, education, and criminal record.The company will conduct a background check before hiring.
Probation PeriodA trial period to assess a new employee’s performance.There’s a three-month probation period for this job.
AvailabilityThe times or dates when someone is free to start a job.What is your availability to begin working?
NegotiationThe process of discussing and reaching an agreement (e.g., salary).I negotiated my salary before accepting the job offer.

3. Job Roles & Responsibilities

VocabularyDefinitionExample in Context
ApplicantA person applying for a job.The applicant submitted her resume on Monday.
CandidateA person being considered for a job.There are five candidates for the marketing position.
ResponsibilitiesTasks and duties required in a job.His responsibilities include managing the sales team and setting goals.
Job DescriptionA document outlining the duties of a specific job.The job description highlights the main responsibilities.
PromotionAdvancement in position or rank within a company.She received a promotion to team leader after two years.

4. Job Requirements

VocabularyDefinitionExample in Context
RequirementsThe qualifications or skills needed for a job.The job requirements include a degree in finance and five years of experience.
StrengthsPositive qualities that make someone suitable for a job.My strengths are leadership and communication.
WeaknessesAreas where a person needs improvement.When discussing weaknesses, I focus on what I’m doing to improve.
Career GoalsA person’s professional aims or objectives.My career goals include becoming a senior manager within five years.
Team PlayerSomeone who works well with others in a team setting.We are looking for a team player to join our collaborative environment.
Work EthicA person’s attitude towards hard work and responsibility.Her strong work ethic is one of her best qualities.

5. Employment Terms & Conditions

VocabularyDefinitionExample in Context
Full-time / Part-timeFull-time refers to a standard workweek (35-40 hours), part-time is fewer hours.I’m looking for a full-time position with benefits.
SalaryThe amount of money paid to an employee for their work.The salary for this role is negotiable.
BenefitsNon-wage compensation like health insurance or vacation time.The company offers great benefits, including health insurance.
RelocationMoving to a different location for a job.Are you willing to relocate for this job?

6. Career Progression & Development

VocabularyDefinitionExample in Context
QualificationsThe education, skills, and certifications needed for a specific job.He has all the qualifications listed in the job description.
PromotionAdvancement in position or rank within a company.I was promoted to project manager after three years.
InternshipA temporary job to gain practical experience, often for students.I completed an internship in digital marketing last summer.
Career GoalsA person’s professional aims or objectives.My career goals include becoming a department manager in five years.

7. Communication in Interviews

VocabularyDefinitionExample in Context
Team PlayerSomeone who works well with others in a team setting.I’m a team player who enjoys collaborating with colleagues.
NegotiationThe process of reaching an agreement on terms like salary.We’ll need to negotiate the salary before making a final offer.
Work EthicA person’s attitude towards hard work and responsibility.Her strong work ethic makes her a valuable employee.
Behavioral InterviewA type of interview focusing on how someone handled past work situations.In the behavioral interview, I was asked to describe a challenge I faced.
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