Job Interview Essentials
This B2 upper-intermediate lesson prepares students for English job interviews through practical exercises and role-play. Students learn how to craft compelling self-introductions, answer behavioral questions using the STAR method, and respond confidently to common interview queries. The lesson builds professional communication skills essential for career success in English-speaking workplaces.
Important: We suggest splitting this file into 2 lessons. Please check the Keys for more details.
Lesson overview
- Master self-introduction techniques for making strong first impressions
- Practice answering common interview questions about strengths, motivations, and career goals
- Learn the STAR method for responding to behavioral interview questions
- Develop confidence through mock interview practice with constructive feedback
Student's Version (Light/Dark)
Teacher's Version (Answer Keys)
Printable Classroom Version (A4)
| Level | Video Length | Lesson Time |
| B2 / Upper-Intermediate | 2:29 min | 120 min |
Contents
- Lead-in
- Part 1: Self-introduction
- Self-introduction example
- Video
- Part 2: Basic interview questions
- Questions
- Part 3: Behavioral questions
- STAR method
- Example
- Questions
- Mock interview
- Questions to ask
Start with the lead-in questions on page 2 about students’ interview experiences and what they find difficult. Page 3 has students brainstorm what to do before, during, and after interviews.
Page 4 introduces self-introductions and why they matter. Students read the architect example on page 5, noting the structure: current role, key skills, educational background, professional enthusiasm. This shows appropriate length and balance. Show the video on page 6 about answering “Tell me about yourself.” For homework, have students write their own self-introductions following these guidelines.
Part 2 starts on page 7 with basic interview questions. Give students time to read the 12 questions on page 8, then have them pick three to practice in pairs. Push for specific examples rather than generic answers. For “Why should we hire you?” students should tie their skills directly to the job.
Part 3 introduces behavioral questions on page 9. These look at past behavior to predict how someone will perform. Teach the STAR method on page 10. Students study the conflict resolution example on page 11 and identify each STAR element. Page 12 has 10 behavioral questions for practice. Students prepare answers to 3-4 using STAR, then share in small groups.
The mock interview on page 13 puts it all together. One student interviews, the other responds, then they switch. Give feedback on content, fluency, and body language. Page 14 covers questions candidates should ask the interviewer. Finish by having students reflect on which question types feel hardest and what they want to work on.
