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Job applications and interviews: 16 words

Words for job ads, applications and interviews in Australia. Listen, practise with flashcards, then check yourself.

Updated 2026-10-15

πŸ“˜ Part of the Complete English Course Β· Intermediate (B1), week 1

1. Learn the words

Press πŸ”Š to hear the word and the example. Say each one out loud.

WordMeaningExample
vacancya job that is availableThere's a vacancy in the warehouse.
positiona jobI'm applying for the position of team leader.
cover lettera letter you send with your resumeWrite a short cover letter.
selection criteriathe skills a job needsAddress each of the selection criteria.
refereea person who can describe your workCan you give me two referees?
shortlistedchosen for the next stageI've been shortlisted for an interview.
qualificationa certificate or degreeWhat qualifications do you have?
skillsthings you can do wellList your key skills.
strengthswhat you're good atWhat are your strengths?
weaknesssomething you're not good at yetTalk about a weakness you're improving.
salaryyearly payThe salary is $65,000.
probationa trial period at a new jobThere's a three-month probation.
contracta written job agreementPlease sign the contract.
reliableyou can trust them to do thingsI'm reliable and punctual.
motivatedkeen to work hardI'm a motivated team player.
feedbackcomments on your workThank you for the feedback.

2. Practise with flashcards

Read the meaning and type the missing word. Words you find hard come back sooner.

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3. Check yourself

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Frequently asked questions

What are the most useful English words for job applications and interviews?

Start with these 16 words, including vacancy, position, cover letter, selection criteria. Each has a simple meaning, an example sentence and audio.

What's the best way to learn new English words?

Listen and say each word out loud, use the flashcards for a few minutes a day (hard words come back sooner), then write your own example sentence.

What level are these words?

They're Intermediate (B1) words, from week 1 of the free Complete English Course.