Language requirements in Dutch job interviews are often assessed in context rather than as isolated skills. Candidates may be expected to operate smoothly across English and Dutch and respond clearly under time pressure. This means that a formal B1 or B2 level does not always translate into strong interview performance: answers can be accurate yet unfocused, hesitant, or difficult to follow. Preparation that focuses specifically on how language is assessed in interviews—rather than on general language study.
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One of the most common sources of confusion for job seekers in the Netherlands is language expectations. Many candidates ask the wrong question:
“Do I need English or Dutch?”
The more accurate question is: “What level of English and Dutch is expected for this role—and how will that be tested in the interview?”
Across most professional jobs, employers generally assume solid English (typically B1–B2) as a baseline, while B1 Dutch is increasingly treated as an integration threshold in client-facing, regulated, or mixed Dutch–international teams. Even when vacancies don’t spell this out, interviews often do—through language switches, small talk in Dutch, and close attention to how clearly and confidently you communicate.
English is not a formal legal requirement for most jobs in the Netherlands, but in practice it is widely expected. For many professional roles:
As a result, employers generally assume that candidates can:
In CEFR terms, this usually means B1–B2 as a practical minimum, with B2 preferred in business, technical, and client-facing roles. “Perfect English” is seldom required—but unclear, hesitant, or disorganised communication is often noticed during interviews.
At the same time, many roles in the Netherlands now explicitly require Dutch at B1 level, even when English is used regularly at work.
This is especially common in:
B1 Dutch does not mean fluency. It signals that you can:
Employers increasingly treat B1 Dutch as an integration threshold, not a communication luxury.
Even when a vacancy mentions only one language, interviews often reveal broader expectations. Common scenarios include:
This means candidates are often evaluated on how they operate across languages, not just in one.
There is no universal language rule in the Dutch labour market. Expectations vary by sector, company size, and role. However, several patterns are consistent:
According to labour market insights and recruiter reporting in the Netherlands, including Nationale Vacaturebank, language and communication mismatches remain a common reason for unsuccessful hiring processes—not because candidates lack qualifications, but because employers see higher risk.
If you are preparing for job interviews in the Netherlands:
You do not need perfect English or fluent Dutch to get hired. But you do need to communicate clearly, confidently, and professionally at the level the role requires. That expectation is now a standard part of the Dutch hiring process.
Are you preparing for job interviews in the Netherlands?
Our Job Interview Coaching in English helps professionals prepare clearly and confidently for interviews conducted in English or bilingual settings.
"English and Dutch Levels for Job Interviews in the Netherlands (2026)" was written by Brenda de Jong-Pauley, MA, Director, The English Center. Brenda is an American expat who's lived in Amstelveen since 2009.
Job interviews in the Netherlands in 2026 are more competitive and more structured than before. Employers still assess technical fit, but interviews increasingly evaluate how candidates communicate, reason, and collaborate. Whether your interview takes place in English or Dutch, these expectations now play a central role in hiring decisions.
Speak with a teacher first. Practical advice, no sales pressure.
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The Dutch job market in 2026 is tighter, more selective, and more deliberate than it was just a few years ago. Employers are hiring, but they are investing more time upfront to reduce the risk of poor hires.
As a result, job interviews have changed. They are no longer just a confirmation of qualifications, but a structured evaluation of how candidates operate in real working environments.
Whether your interview takes place in English or Dutch, the underlying expectations are largely the same. Employers assess how clearly you think, explain, and interact. For many candidates, this means performing well in both languages—English for international communication and Dutch for integration, collaboration, or client-facing situations.
This article explains:
This article is relevant if you:
You do not need to be actively focused on language improvement to benefit. Many candidates only realise communication and language are being assessed once interviews begin.
There are more qualified candidates per role than before. Employers compare not just experience, but how clearly candidates explain themselves and their relevance for the job. Being “good enough” rarely stands out.
Demand remains strongest in:
Interview expectations in these sectors are typically high, regardless of interview language.
Recruiters want clear answers to practical questions:
These answers must be structured, concise, and credible—often delivered under time pressure.
Referrals, conversations, and visibility still matter more than volume. Informal conversations increasingly act as pre-interviews and may take place in English or Dutch.
In many professional roles, English is assumed in interviews. Candidates are expected to explain their experience clearly and participate in discussion. In practice, this usually means at least B1–B2 level English, with higher expectations in business, technical, and client-facing roles.
At the same time, many employers now explicitly require Dutch at B1 level, even when English is used day to day. This is common in client-facing roles, public or semi-public organisations, regulated sectors, and mixed Dutch–international teams.
B1 Dutch signals functional independence rather than fluency. Candidates without it often face a narrower interview pool.
Customisation is expected—not just in content, but in tone and precision. This applies equally to spoken answers during interviews.
Successful candidates apply selectively and prepare deliberately. Interviews reward structured thinking, not emotional momentum.
Technical competence determines eligibility. Communication, collaboration, and adaptability are assessed directly or indirectly in nearly every interview.
By 2026, employers generally assume candidates meet the technical baseline. Interviews are increasingly used to assess how candidates work in real conditions, often across more than one working language.
Employers look for candidates who can:
Unclear communication is viewed as a practical risk, not a minor weakness.
As routine tasks are automated, interviews focus on reasoning. Candidates are asked to explain decisions, reflect on mistakes, and work through scenarios clearly and logically.
Most roles involve cross-functional teams. Interviews assess how candidates listen, respond, and disagree. These behaviours are inseparable from communication skills.
Employers expect roles to evolve. Candidates are asked how they handle change, learning curves, and uncertainty. Clear explanation matters more than perfect answers.
“Cultural fit” refers to working style: how candidates communicate under pressure, receive feedback, and contribute to team dynamics. According to Nationale Vacaturebank, mismatches in these areas remain a major reason for unsuccessful hires.
In 2026:
Candidates who prepare only for what they say often underestimate how they are evaluated. Those who prepare for communication tend to perform more consistently across interviews, probation, and day-to-day work. That overlap reflects how hiring in the Netherlands actually works today.
Are you preparing for job interviews in the Netherlands? Our Job Interview Coaching in English helps professionals prepare clearly and confidently for interviews conducted in English or bilingual settings.
"Job Interviews in the Netherlands in 2026" was written by Brenda de Jong-Pauley, MA, Director, The English Center. Brenda is an American expat who's lived in Amstelveen since 2009.
Can't find your words when you need them most? Learning key business English phrases for meetings will help you speak fluently and confidently in most professional settings. From formal client presentation meetings to casual team discussions, this phrase bank includes exact phrases for agreeing, disagreeing, making suggestions, and leading effective conversations.
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Before we dive into the phrases, let's clarify the main types of meetings you might participate in:
Mastering business English phrases for meetings means knowing how to contribute effectively. Here are essential phrases for participating in discussions.
Formal:
Informal:
Formal:
Informal:
Formal:
Informal:
Formal:
Informal:
If you're leading a meeting, these business English phrases will help you maintain control and keep discussions productive.
Pro Tip: Use chair as the standard, modern term. It’s concise, gender-neutral, and widely accepted. Chair can also be used as a verb (“Who will chair the meeting?”). Use “chairperson” for formal or traditional contexts.
Formal:
Informal:
Formal:
Informal:
The rise of remote work means we all need to master virtual meeting etiquette. Here are essential phrases for online meetings.
Understanding when to use formal or informal business English phrases for meetings is crucial for professional success.
Use formal language when:
Use informal language when:
Pro tip: When in doubt, start with a formal tone and then adjust, if needed, based on the tone others set.
Mastering business English phrases for meetings takes practice. Try incorporating a few new phrases into your next meeting, and pay attention to how native speakers navigate different situations. Remember, confidence comes from preparation – knowing these meeting phrases will help you contribute meaningfully and professionally in any business setting.
The key to success is not just memorizing these phrases, but understanding the context in which to use them. Whether you're participating in a formal board meeting or a casual team catch-up, having the right business English phrases at your fingertips will boost your confidence and professional credibility.
Ready to polish your business English? Our Spoken Business English courses help you communicate with clarity and confidence in any professional setting.
You can work with a professional native-speaker trainer and get real-world practice at our locations in:
Amsterdam (near Vondelpark or Central Station)
Amstelveen (easy parking, quiet setting)
The Hague (Zuid-Holland’s choice for English training)
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"Business English Phrases for Meetings" was written by Brenda de Jong-Pauley, MA, Director, The English Center and Alexandra Roberts, BA, English trainer.
How many of these Halloween movie classics have you seen? Our collection spans 65 years of shock and horror. Sit back and enjoy the terror (and sometimes humor) of these well-known scary staples, as well as some lesser known gems.
Halloween is the perfect time to curl up with a scary (or not-so-scary) movie classic. But how many of these 13 Halloween movie classics have you actually watched? Explore the list and discover your next spooky English learning opportunity! We've included famous quotes, English difficulty levels, and age ratings so you can choose the perfect film for your language level and viewing situation.
Are you an intermediate or advanced learner who's looking to improve your Spoken English? Check out our Private Personalized English Courses.
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Famous Quote: "A boy's best friend is his mother."
English Difficulty: Intermediate – Clear 1960s American English, moderate pace
Age Rating: 15+ (violence, psychological themes)
Alfred Hitchcock's masterpiece that made everyone afraid of showers. This black-and-white thriller features crisp dialogue and is excellent for understanding classic American cinema vocabulary.
Famous Quote: "Here's Johnny!"
English Difficulty: Intermediate – American English with some challenging psychological dialogue
Age Rating: 18+ (intense horror, violence, disturbing themes)
Stanley Kubrick's adaptation of Stephen King's novel is a masterclass in building tension. Jack Nicholson's performance offers great examples of emotional range in English.
Famous Quote: "I met him, fifteen years ago. I was told there was nothing left. No reason, no conscience, no understanding; even the most rudimentary sense of life or death, good or evil, right or wrong."
English Difficulty: Intermediate – Clear American English, suspenseful pacing
Age Rating: 18+ (violence, suspense)
John Carpenter's genre-defining slasher launched Jamie Lee Curtis's career and created the template for modern horror. The dialogue is straightforward, making it accessible for English learners.
Famous Quote: "The power of Christ compels you!"
English Difficulty: Advanced – Mix of American accents, religious vocabulary, some Latin
Age Rating: 18+ (disturbing content, violence)
Considered one of the scariest films ever made, this supernatural horror classic offers challenging vocabulary around religion and the supernatural.
Famous Quote: "It's just a bunch of hocus pocus!"
English Difficulty: Beginner/Intermediate – Clear, family-friendly American English
Age Rating: PG (mild scares, suitable for families)
This family-friendly comedy about three witch sisters is perfect for Halloween viewing with kids. The clear dialogue and humorous tone make it ideal for English learners.
Famous Quote: "It's showtime!"
English Difficulty: Intermediate – Fast-paced American English, wordplay and puns
Age Rating: PG/12+ (mild horror themes, some adult humor)
Tim Burton's quirky comedy-horror features Michael Keaton's manic performance. Great for learning American idioms and creative insults!
Famous Quote: "I was a bride. My dreams were taken from me. But now I've stolen them from someone else."
English Difficulty: Intermediate – Clear British and American English, musical elements
Age Rating: PG (mild scary themes, suitable for families)
Another Tim Burton gem, this stop-motion animated film features beautiful visuals and clear dialogue. The songs help with pronunciation and vocabulary retention. While the story is accessible, advanced learners will appreciate the sophisticated visual and linguistic puns woven throughout Burton's Victorian gothic world.
Famous Quote: "Feed me, Seymour!"
English Difficulty: Beginner/Intermediate – Musical format with repetitive lyrics, clear American English
Age Rating: PG-13/12+ (dark comedy, mild violence)
This musical comedy-horror is fantastic for English learners. The catchy songs repeat vocabulary, and the theatrical dialogue is clear and expressive.
IMDb: Little Shop of Horrors (1986)
Famous Quote: "Don't dream it, be it."
English Difficulty: Intermediate/Advanced – Mix of British and American English, theatrical vocabulary, fast-paced songs
Age Rating: 15+ (sexual content, adult themes)
A cult classic with a massive Halloween following. The musical format makes it a unique cultural experience, featuring both British and American accents. Great for understanding theatrical expressions and musical English.
IMDb: The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)
Famous Quote: "She's standing right behind you."
English Difficulty: Intermediate – Modern American English, clear dialogue
Age Rating: 15+ (intense horror, violence)
This modern horror classic revitalized the supernatural thriller genre and is widely considered one of the scariest films of the 2010s. The contemporary dialogue makes it very accessible for current English learners—if you can handle the scares!
Famous Quote: "You've got red on you."
English Difficulty: Advanced – British English, fast dialogue, cultural references, slang
Age Rating: 15+ (violence, gore, language)
This British zombie comedy is brilliant but challenging. Packed with British slang, rapid-fire dialogue, and cultural humor. Excellent for advanced learners wanting to master British English.
IMDb: Shaun of the Dead (2004)
Famous Quote: "Get out!"
English Difficulty: Intermediate/Advanced – Modern American English, social commentary
Age Rating: 15+ (violence, disturbing themes, racial themes)
Jordan Peele's Oscar-winning thriller combines horror with sharp social commentary. Great for understanding contemporary American English and cultural discussions.
Famous Quote: "I have crossed oceans of time to find you."
English Difficulty: Advanced – British English, Victorian-era vocabulary, literary language
Age Rating: 18+ (violence, sexual content, horror)
Francis Ford Coppola's Gothic masterpiece features elaborate dialogue based on the classic novel. Challenging but rewarding for advanced learners interested in literary English.
IMDb: Bram Stoker's Dracula (1992)
Seen all 13? Here are some underrated Halloween movie classics that deserve more love:
English Difficulty: Intermediate – Clear American English, biographical dialogue
Age Rating: 12+/PG-13 (mild themes)
Tim Burton's loving tribute to "the worst director of all time" is a beautiful black-and-white film about passion and creativity. Johnny Depp's performance is heartfelt, and the film celebrates the golden age of B-movie horror. Perfect for film lovers and anyone interested in Hollywood history.
English Difficulty: Intermediate – American English with rural accents, campy dialogue
Age Rating: 15+/18+ (violence, horror themes, dark humor)
This cult classic horror-comedy about a rural motel with a sinister secret is delightfully twisted. "It takes all kinds of critters to make Farmer Vincent's fritters" is one of horror's most memorable taglines. A perfect example of campy 80s B-movie charm that deserves more recognition.
English Difficulty: Advanced – Period English (1630s), heavy accents, archaic vocabulary
Age Rating: 15+ (disturbing themes, violence)
Set in 1630s New England, this atmospheric horror film uses historically accurate dialogue. Extremely challenging but rewarding for advanced learners interested in historical English.
English Difficulty: Intermediate/Advanced – New Zealand English, mockumentary format, dry humor
Age Rating: 15+ (violence, language, adult humor)
This hilarious mockumentary about vampire roommates offers a fresh take on the genre. Great for understanding New Zealand accents and deadpan comedy.
IMDb: What We Do in the Shadows (2014)
Ready to polish your business English? Our Spoken Business English courses help you communicate with clarity and confidence in any professional setting.
You can work with a professional native-speaker trainer and get real-world practice in:
Amsterdam (near Vondelpark or Central Station)
Amstelveen (easy parking, quiet setting)
The Hague (Zuid-Holland’s choice for English training)
Hoofddorp (central, accessible, modern)
Prefer to stay home? Contact us about English Center courses online.
Since 2009, thousands of learners have trusted our courses
What do our clients think about us? Just click the TrustPilot icon to read some reviews
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Authors: Brenda de Jong-Pauley, MA, Director, The English Center and Alexandra Roberts, BA, English trainer.
Why is English so difficult? Because English is a patchwork language, assembled like Frankenstein's monster from the remains of other languages – German, French, Latin, Greek, and more. This explains the silent letters, inconsistent spelling, and rare sounds that frustrate learners worldwide.
Why do we have silent letters in knife and lamb? Why does ough sound different in through, tough, cough, and bough? The answer lies in English's turbulent linguistic history.
Picture this: In a laboratory, a scientist stitches together parts from different corpses and brings his creation to life. The result? A powerful creature assembled from disparate pieces that grows beyond its creator's control. Sound familiar? That's essentially how English developed.
Like Frankenstein's monster, English is a patchwork creature assembled from other languages' remains. And like the fictional creation, it has grown beyond anyone's expectations, dominating the global business world. But English bears the scars of its violent assembly – explaining why our students find it so beautifully, maddeningly complex.
Are you an intermediate or advanced learner who's looking to improve your Spoken English? Check out our Private Personalized English Courses.
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The origins of the English language are truly fascinating and diverse, but here’s a quick breakdown for context:
The Germanic Bones: Anglo-Saxon settlers provided English with its skeletal structure – basic grammar and everyday words like house, water, love, and work. These Germanic bones still support everything we say.
The Norman French Organs: The 1066 Norman Conquest performed major surgery, transplanting thousands of French words. English suddenly had sophisticated vocabulary for government (parliament, justice), culture (art, literature), and cuisine (dinner, sauce).
The Latin Blood: Latin flows through English veins via legal terms (contract, liability), academic language (university, professor), and formal vocabulary.
The Greek Brain: For scientific thinking, English borrowed Greek neural pathways: telephone, democracy, psychology, technology.
Modern Transplants: English continues evolving, accepting transplants from dozens of languages – entrepreneur (French), kindergarten (German), tsunami (Japanese). Dutch maritime expertise gave English essential sailing vocabulary: yacht (jacht), skipper (schipper), deck (dek), cruise (kruisen), plus everyday words like landscape (landschap), cookie (koekje), and boss (baas).
Understanding why English is difficult requires traveling through Britain's turbulent history – repeated invasions that each scarred the language.
Celtic Foundation (Pre-55 BC): Celtic tribes spoke languages related to modern Welsh and Irish. Few Celtic words survived in English, mainly in place names: Thames, Dover, London.
Roman Occupation (43-410 AD): Four centuries of Roman rule planted Latin seeds: street (Latin strata), wall (vallum), wine (vinum).
Anglo-Saxon Settlement (5th-6th centuries): Germanic tribes – Angles, Saxons, Jutes – brought the language that became English. They provided core grammar and vocabulary: be, have, go, come, good, bad. Crucially, they brought the distinctive "th" sound that challenges modern learners.
Viking Raids (8th-11th centuries): Scandinavian Vikings settled northern England. Their Old Norse blended with Anglo-Saxon, giving us sky, egg, knife, husband, they. Old Norse reinforced the "th" sound while other Germanic languages lost it – explaining why English learners struggle with sounds that barely exist elsewhere.
The Norman Conquest (1066): Here's where our Frankenstein story turns dramatic. William the Conqueror's victory didn't just change politics – it performed linguistic surgery. For 300 years, French dominated the ruling class while Anglo-Saxon remained the language of the “common people.” This created a linguistic class system haunting English today:
Germanic words sound direct and earthy (ask, help, start); French-Latin words sound formal (inquire, assist, commence). Business English ranges from folksy to fancy – we can choose between medieval peasants' and nobles' vocabulary.
Then English traveled to America and developed further:
American English preserved features closer to Shakespeare's pronunciation than modern British English. Americans still pronounce "r" in father and water (as Shakespeare did), while British English dropped this in the 18th century.
However, neither modern American nor British English sounds like Shakespeare's – both evolved significantly since the 1600s. There's no living museum of Elizabethan English anywhere.
How did this patchwork monster become the global business language?
Understanding English as Frankenstein's monster explains why English is difficult:
This linguistic creature, assembled from centuries of contact and conquest, became business history's most powerful communication tool. It's stitched together from different languages, but like Frankenstein's creation, English developed its own life and intelligence.
This Halloween, embrace the monster. Yes, English is frustratingly inconsistent – but it's our global language. Understanding its chaotic history makes working with it less maddening, more fascinating. When you know why English behaves this way, you stop fighting the monster and start working with it.
Happy Halloween from The English Center! May your business English be monstrously effective.
The story of Frankenstein is such a beloved classic that audiences are spoiled for choice when it comes to movie adaptations (and parodies)! Here's the trailer for the 1931 film with Boris Karloff:
For a parody that's a cult classic in its own right, check out Young Frankenstein:
Ready to polish your business English? Our Spoken Business English courses help you communicate with clarity and confidence in any professional setting.
You can work with a professional native-speaker trainer and get real-world practice in:
Amsterdam (near Vondelpark or Central Station)
Amstelveen (easy parking, quiet setting)
The Hague (Zuid-Holland’s choice for English training)
Hoofddorp (central, accessible, modern)
Prefer to stay home? Contact us about English Center courses online!
Since 2009, thousands of learners have trusted our courses
What do our clients think about us? Just click the TrustPilot icon to read some reviews
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Authors: Brenda de Jong-Pauley, MA, Director, The English Center and Alexandra Roberts, BA, English trainer.
75-90% of CVs get filtered out by Applicant Tracking Systems before reaching recruiters. These ATS friendly CV tips will help you beat the system and make your CV both ATS-compatible and human-friendly.
Are you an intermediate or advanced learner who's looking to improve your Spoken English? Check out our Private Personalized English Courses.
Why choose The English Center for your training?
We are CEDEO-erkend and get excellent Trustpilot reviews for our Business English courses in Amsterdam.
Are you preparing for a job interview? OurJob Interview Coaching will help you make the best possible first impression.
Liever in het Nederlands lezen? Bejijk Sollicitatiegesprek Engels: 1-op-1 coaching.
An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is software that many employers use to scan, sort, and rank resumes and CVs. Think of it as a digital gatekeeper that acts as the first filter between you and the recruiter. If your CV isn't ATS-friendly, it may never reach human eyes—even if you're a strong candidate.
The statistics are sobering:
Understanding how ATS technology works is crucial for optimization. Here's what happens behind the scenes:
Best choice: .docx (Microsoft Word) – safest for ATS parsing and universally accepted
PDF: Only if the job posting explicitly allows it. While PDFs keep formatting intact, some older ATS systems may not read them correctly.
Avoid: .pages, .odt, .rtf, or image-based PDFs — ATS may not read them properly.
Rule of thumb: Unless told otherwise, submit as .docx.
Your file name is part of your first impression. Recruiters often download CVs and resumes and share them internally—a clear, professional name ensures your document won't get lost. These ATS friendly CV tips include proper file naming.
Think of ATS alignment like SEO for your resume:
Preparing for your job interview? Our Job Interview Coaching will help you put your best foot forward. Prefer to read about our job interview preparation in Dutch? Doorgaan naar onze Sollicitatiegesprek in Engels training.
If you're applying for jobs internationally, you may notice two different terms: CV and resume. While they both describe a document that outlines your experience and qualifications, usage varies by location.
In Europe (and much of the world): The term "CV" (short for curriculum vitae) is standard.
In the United States and Canada: The term "resume" is preferred. It serves the same purpose as a European CV and should be concise (1–2 pages). In North America, "CV" is reserved for academic, research, or medical contexts, where the document can be several pages long and include publications, presentations, and detailed academic history.
In practice: For most job seekers outside of academia, a CV and a resume mean essentially the same thing—a short, tailored document that markets your skills, experience, and education to potential employers.
Finding the right job can be challenging, but every strong application brings you closer to your goal. Remember, your resume is more than a document—it's your introduction and your chance to show how your experience fits what an employer needs. Approach the process with patience, persistence, and confidence.
Need support with job searching or interviewing in English? We're here to help you present yourself at your very best. Learn more about how we help non-native English speakers succeed in their career goals with Job Interview Coaching.
In partnership with the Gemeente Amsterdam and RMT, The English Center supports low-income job seekers—many of whom are expats or newcomers—aiming for roles in the English-speaking market. The process begins with a personal intake to understand each client’s goals, followed by tailored support in CV and cover letter writing, and English job interview practice. This program is highly effective, with a success rate of approximately 90%. Read more about The English Center's work with the Gemeente Amsterdam.
You can work with a professional native-speaker trainer and get real-world practice in:
Prefer to stay home? Contact us about English Center courses online!
Since 2009, thousands of learners have trusted our courses
What do our clients think about us? Just click the TrustPilot icon to read some reviews
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Authors: Brenda de Jong-Pauley, MA, Director, The English Center and Alexandra Roberts, BA, English trainer.
For professionals from cultures that value straightforward communication, navigating English-speaking workplaces can feel like walking a diplomatic tightrope. How do you stay clear and confident while avoiding the dreaded labels of "blunt" or "rude"? The answer lies in balancing diplomacy and directness—a skill that bridges cultural gaps without sacrificing your message's power.
Are directness and diplomacy opposites?
Not exactly, but in international business, they often feel like it! In this article, we find the sweet spot where you can be direct and clear, whilst still being diplomatic.
Are you an intermediate or advanced learner who's looking to improve your Spoken English? Check out our Private Personalized English Courses.
Why choose The English Center for your training?
We are CEDEO-erkend and get excellent Trustpilot reviews for our Business English courses in Amsterdam.
Many cultures—including German, Dutch, Scandinavian, Russian, and Israeli—value directness. Say what you mean, cut to the point, avoid wasting words. It feels efficient, honest, and respectful.
But in many English-speaking contexts, directness can be misread as bluntness, rudeness, disrespect, insensitivity, or arrogance. In English spheres, diplomacy is valued, so please – soften your tone, leave room for interpretation, and protect the other person’s “face.” (face = pride or self respect)
For professionals from direct-speaking cultures, these difference can create misunderstandings. The good news? Diplomatic English can be learned, practiced, and mastered—without losing your clarity or confidence.
Common challenge: Direct translations from German or Dutch can sound too blunt.
Useful softeners:
Practice: Turn “That’s a bad idea” into three softer alternatives.
Common challenge: Feedback may come across as overly critical or personal.
Tips:
Pattern: Positive → Constructive → Positive (feedback sandwich).
Common challenge: Saying “No” too directly or interrupting without softening.
Useful alternatives to “That’s wrong”:
Practice: Transform “I don’t agree” into three more diplomatic versions.
Read more about How to Disagree Diplomatically
Common problem: Over-prioritizing logic and efficiency while embarrassing others.
Best practices:
Example: Instead of “You made a mistake with the figures,” try:
“Just to be sure I understand—should this figure be 1.2 or 1.3 million?”
Common problem: Addressing tension head-on, which may feel abrupt in English.
Diplomatic alternatives to “You’re wrong”:
Practice: Handle disagreement without using the phrase “I disagree.”
Common challenge: Questions that sound impatient or accusatory.
Useful starters:
Common challenge: Jumping straight to business, which can feel abrupt.
Instead, try:
Tip: In online meetings, start with a smile, a polite greeting, and a simple opener:
“Hi, I’m . It’s good to meet you—where are you joining from today?”
Common challenge: Speaking too fast, sounding monotone, or too formal.
Tips for a warmer, more diplomatic style:
Explore Diplomatic English for Business further
Ready to polish your business English? Our Spoken Business English courses help you communicate with clarity and confidence in any professional setting.
You can work with a professional native-speaker trainer and get real-world practice in:
Prefer to stay home? Contact us about English Center courses online!
Since 2009, thousands of learners have trusted our courses
What do our clients think about us? Just click the TrustPilot icon to read some reviews
Or click the CEDEO-erkend logo to see us at the CEDEO site.
Authors: Brenda de Jong-Pauley, MA, Director, The English Center and Alexandra Roberts, BA, English trainer.
Modern workplace communication is packed with acronyms and initialisms, and while they're great for efficiency, they can be confusing if you don't know the code. This cheat sheet is your quick reference guide to the most common business abbreviations. Keep it handy for those moments when you need a fast translation.
Are you an intermediate or advanced learner who's looking to improve your Spoken English? Check out our Private Personalized English Courses.
Why choose The English Center for your training?
We are CEDEO-erkend and get excellent Trustpilot reviews for our Business English courses in Amsterdam.
Acronyms = Pronounced as new words
Initialisms = Each letter is said separately
Acronyms and initialisms are both forms of abbreviations (shortened forms of words or phrases).
Pro tip: In everyday conversation, people often say "acronym" for both — but now you know the technical difference!
Speak each letter separately.
Note: All of the abbreviations listed above are initialisms, though ASAP and SaaS can also be used as acronyms (say “AY-sap” and “sass”).
You can use these in correspondence with colleagues in a less formal tone.
Speak each letter separately.
✅ Know your audience — not everyone knows every abbreviation
✅ When in doubt, write it out
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Authors: Brenda de Jong-Pauley, MA, Director, The English Center and Alexandra Roberts, BA, English trainer.
This guide is a usrer-friendly reference for improving the flow of English communication via words that connect—whether you're writing or speaking in business, academic, or everyday settings. It includes a wide range of linking words (also called connectors), many of which are used across both formal and informal contexts. Words are grouped by function and listed alphabetically, with formality labels, clear explanations, and real-world examples from both written and spoken usage.
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Words that connect ideas—within or between sentences—are known by various labels depending on the context. Common terms include linking words, connectors, and connectives. In grammar and linguistics, they are often called conjunctions (coordinating, subordinating, correlative) or discourse markers when used to organize extended speech or writing. In academic contexts, they may also be referred to as transitional devices or cohesive devices. All these terms describe words or phrases that guide the reader or listener through the logical flow of communication.
Different linking words suit different contexts. This guide includes a range of connectors used in business, academic, and informal English. Each entry is marked with a formality label—[Formal], [Neutral], or [Informal]—to help you choose the right word for your audience and situation. For example, “furthermore” is ideal for reports or essays, while “plus” is better suited to casual speech or informal writing.
Use these to add information, reinforce ideas, or introduce examples.
[Formal]
Adds extra information or emphasis.
Business: The new policy will streamline onboarding procedures. Additionally, it will reduce paperwork.
Academic: The study confirms the hypothesis. Additionally, it offers a new framework for analysis.
[Neutral]
Adds another point of equal importance.
Business: The company expanded into Europe. Also, it increased its R&D budget.
Academic: The author critiques the theory. Also, she suggests an alternative approach.
[Neutral]
Joins two related ideas or actions.
Business: The team delivered the report on time, and they also presented a strong case for expansion.
Academic: The paper defines key terms, and it outlines the methodology clearly.
[Neutral]
Adds a related item, often in lists.
Business: The proposal covers logistics as well as compliance.
Academic: The curriculum includes literature as well as composition.
[Formal]
Introduces a stronger or more important point.
Business: The audit revealed key discrepancies. Furthermore, several processes were found to be non-compliant.
Academic: The results support the initial claim. Furthermore, they challenge the standard interpretation.
[Formal]
Adds supplementary information.
Business: The sales figures exceeded expectations. In addition, customer retention improved.
Academic: In addition to primary sources, the paper uses interviews with experts.
[Formal]
Emphasizes an additional, often more significant, point.
Business: The division met its targets. Moreover, it launched two new product lines.
Academic: The theory is well-supported. Moreover, it aligns with recent empirical data.
[Neutral]
Emphasizes two related or surprising points.
Business: She not only improved the process, but she also reduced overhead costs.
Academic: The experiment not only confirmed previous results, but also revealed new insights.
[Informal]
Adds a casual or conversational point, often in speech or informal writing.
Business: We finished the pitch deck. Plus, the client loved the new design.
Academic: The article is well-researched. Plus, it’s easy to read.
[Neutral]
Introduces specific examples.
Business: The strategy includes several new channels, such as influencer partnerships and paid search.
Academic: Many poets, such as Keats and Shelley, explored themes of nature and mortality.
[Neutral]
Emphasizes an additional, often compelling, point.
Business: The solution is cost-effective. What's more, it's scalable.
Academic: The sample was diverse. What's more, it reflected national averages.
Use these to show differences, exceptions, or unexpected results.
[Formal]
Concedes a minor point while emphasizing the main idea.
Business: The feedback was positive, albeit with minor reservations.
Academic: The results were valid, albeit not statistically significant.
[Formal]
Introduces a concession or contrast.
Business: Although we followed protocol, the shipment was delayed.
Academic: Although the sample was limited, the findings were consistent.
[Neutral]
Highlights two simultaneous but contrasting considerations.
Business: We want to grow our customer base. At the same time, we must reduce acquisition costs.
Academic: The theory gained popularity. At the same time, criticism increased.
[Neutral]
Contrasts two ideas directly.
Business: He accepted the position, but he declined the relocation package.
Academic: The method is effective, but it’s time-consuming.
[Neutral]
Concedes a point but maintains the main idea.
Business: The team was behind schedule. Even so, they managed to meet the deadline.
Academic: The model is incomplete. Even so, it provides useful insight.
[Neutral]
Introduces a strong concession.
Business: Even though the figures were promising, investors remained cautious.
Academic: Even though the experiment was repeated, the results differed.
[Formal]
Introduces a contrast or exception, often after a full stop or semicolon.
Business: The data was promising. However, the client was not convinced.
Academic: The hypothesis was well-structured. However, the evidence was lacking.
[Formal]
Shows contrast despite a condition or obstacle.
Business: In spite of the limited budget, the marketing campaign was a success.
Academic: In spite of the complexity, the algorithm performed well.
[Formal]
Concedes a point while maintaining the main idea.
Business: The team lacked experience. Nevertheless, the project was a success.
Academic: The data was incomplete. Nevertheless, the conclusion was valid.
[Formal]
Concedes a point but emphasizes the main idea.
Business: She was the least experienced candidate. Nonetheless, she delivered the most compelling pitch.
Academic: The theory is controversial. Nonetheless, it continues to influence policy.
[Formal/Neutral]
Introduces a contrasting point or alternative perspective.
Business: The new software is expensive. On the other hand, it could significantly boost productivity.
Academic: Previous studies focused on urban areas. On the other hand, rural communities remain under-researched.
[Neutral]
Indicates something happens despite circumstances.
Business: The system had failed multiple times. Regardless, the vendor was given another chance.
Academic: The paper was overdue. Regardless, it was accepted for review.
[Neutral]
Contrasts with previous information, often unexpectedly.
Business: The proposal lacked detail. Still, the board approved it.
Academic: The study is small. Still, the conclusions are valuable.
[Neutral]
Introduces a concession, often at the end of a sentence.
Business: The transition was difficult, though the team adapted quickly.
Academic: The results were inconclusive, though they raised important questions.
[Neutral]
Contrasts two simultaneous ideas or actions.
Business: While the proposal had merit, it lacked sufficient data to support the investment.
Academic: While the evidence is compelling, it does not prove causation.
[Neutral]
Contrasts, often with an unexpected result.
Business: The system has been upgraded, yet users continue to report delays.
Academic: The method was precise, yet the outcomes varied widely.
Use these to show reasons, results, or logical consequences.
[Neutral]
Shows cause or time relationship.
Business: As demand increases, we plan to scale our operations accordingly.
Academic: As the experiment progressed, the variables became more difficult to control.
[Neutral]
Shows the consequence of a previous action or situation.
Business: The client canceled the order. As a result, we revised our Q4 projections.
Academic: Several sources were excluded. As a result, the literature review lacked depth.
[Neutral]
Indicates reasoning or evidence for a decision.
Business: Based on our findings, we recommend postponing the investment round.
Academic: Based on the survey data, the hypothesis was adjusted.
[Formal]
Shows a direct result or effect.
Business: Profits dropped sharply. Consequently, the board called an emergency meeting.
Academic: The participants misunderstood the task. Consequently, the data were inconsistent.
[Neutral → Formal]
Shows cause or reason.
Business: Due to high demand, we increased production.
Academic: Due to sample contamination, the test was repeated.
[Formal]
Explains reason (literary/formal; less common in modern business English).
Business: The project was underfunded, for the board withheld final approval.
Academic: The theory was flawed, for it ignored several key variables.
[Neutral]
Prepares for a possible situation or problem.
Business: In case there is a delay in customs, we’ve prepared a local backup plan.
Academic: In case of contamination, all samples were stored separately.
[Formal]
Introduces a possible future condition.
Business: In the event that market conditions deteriorate, we will delay the launch.
Academic: In the event that the hypothesis fails, alternative models will be explored.
[Formal]
Shows cause or reason.
Business: Owing to supply chain issues, delivery has been delayed.
Academic: Owing to high variability, the results are considered inconclusive.
[Neutral]
Sets a condition for something to happen.
Business: Provided that all conditions are met, funding will be released next quarter.
Academic: Providing the sample remains stable, measurements will continue.
[Neutral]
Gives a reason or cause.
Business: Since the team completed the prototype ahead of schedule, we were able to begin testing early.
Academic: Since participants varied in age, results were adjusted accordingly.
[Neutral]
Shows result or consequence.
Business: The product failed the quality check, so we halted distribution.
Academic: The experiment produced irregular readings, so the trial was repeated.
[Formal]
Shows logical result or conclusion.
Business: We missed the revenue target. Therefore, bonuses will be reduced this quarter.
Academic: The data did not support the hypothesis. Therefore, it was rejected.
[Formal]
Shows logical conclusion or result.
Business: The data was incomplete. Thus, the conclusion was flawed.
Academic: The method was too narrow. Thus, further research is required.
[Neutral]
Sets a negative condition.
Business: We won’t proceed unless we receive written confirmation.
Academic: Unless otherwise noted, all figures are estimates.
[Neutral]
Sets a positive condition.
Business: The offer remains valid as long as payment is received by Friday.
Academic: As long as the temperature is controlled, the reaction will proceed normally.
Use these to present options, alternatives, or conditions.
[Neutral]
Presents two alternatives.
Business: Either we renegotiate the contract now, or we face legal action later.
Academic: Either the participants misunderstood the task, or the instructions were unclear.
[Neutral]
Negates two alternatives.
Business: Neither the supplier nor the distributor accepted the revised terms.
Academic: Neither the control group nor the experimental group showed significant change.
[Neutral]
Presents a contrasting alternative or counterpoint.
Business: The premium package is more expensive. On the other hand, it offers better long-term value.
Academic: The first theory is widely accepted. On the other hand, the newer model addresses recent data.
[Neutral]
Sets a strict condition for something to happen.
Business: The contract will be extended only if performance improves.
Academic: The extension is granted only if the student maintains a 3.0 GPA.
[Neutral]
Offers alternatives or options.
Business: You can attend the training on Monday, or you can join the Wednesday session.
Academic: Students may submit a paper, or they can take a final exam.
[Neutral]
Shows the consequence of not following the previous action.
Business: We could reduce costs by automating. Otherwise, we must cut staff.
Academic: The draft must be submitted by Friday. Otherwise, it will not be reviewed.
Use these to indicate time relationships or duration.
[Neutral]
Sets a deadline.
Business: Please submit the report by 5 p.m. Friday.
Academic: All assignments must be uploaded by midnight.
[Neutral]
Indicates a period of time.
Business: We experienced a spike in traffic during the campaign launch.
Academic: Attendance dropped during the final exam period.
[Neutral]
Indicates duration.
Business: The client has retained us for six months.
Academic: The experiment ran for four weeks.
[Neutral]
Indicates something happening at the same time as something else.
Business: The legal team was drafting the contract. Meanwhile, the finance team conducted a risk assessment.
Academic: The students worked on their essays. Meanwhile, the professor graded the midterms.
[Neutral]
Indicates up to a point in time.
Business: The team will work remotely until the renovations are complete.
Academic: The lab is closed until further notice.
[Neutral]
Indicates simultaneous actions or contrasts.
Business: While traveling, he continued to lead the team remotely.
Academic: While one group conducted the experiment, the other recorded the results.
Use these to highlight or reinforce a point.
[Formal]
Highlights the most important consideration.
Business: Above all, we value transparency.
Academic: Above all, this study shows a need for further research.
[Formal]
Reinforces or emphasizes a previous statement.
Business: The innovation was bold. Indeed, it redefined the industry standard.
Academic: The theory is widely accepted. Indeed, it forms the basis of current research.
[Neutral]
Reinforces or clarifies a previous statement.
Business: The CEO responded swiftly. In fact, the issue was resolved within hours.
Academic: The hypothesis was well supported. In fact, it exceeded expectations.
Use these to introduce hypothetical situations or comparisons.
[Neutral]
Introduces a hypothetical comparison.
Business: He spoke as if he had already made the final decision.
Academic: She acted as if the theory had been proven.
[Neutral]
Introduces a hypothetical comparison.
Business: She reacted as though the news were completely unexpected.
Academic: He presented the data as though the outcome was inevitable.
[Neutral]
Introduces a hypothetical condition.
Business: Even if we lower the price, the client may not accept the proposal.
Academic: Even if the results vary slightly, the trend remains consistent.
Use these to clarify or restate an idea.
[Formal]
Specifies exact details following a general statement.
Business: We focused on three markets, namely the US, Canada, and Germany.
Academic: The intervention improved two key areas, namely engagement and comprehension.
[Neutral]
Restates for clarity or emphasis.
Business: The project is paused. In other words, all activities are on hold.
Academic: The results were inconclusive. In other words, further study is needed.
[Neutral]
Clarifies or specifies a previous statement.
Business: We are targeting early adopters—that is, clients who value innovation.
Academic: The study focused on a specific demographic—that is, individuals aged 18–25.
Whether you’re aiming to write a polished report, deliver a persuasive presentation, or simply make your everyday conversations clearer, choosing the right connecting words can make a significant difference. By consulting this guide, you can confidently select connectors that fit your context and audience, ensuring your ideas are linked smoothly and your message is understood.
You can work with a professional native-speaker trainer and get real-world practice in:
Prefer to stay home? Contact us about English Center courses online!
Since 2009, thousands of learners have trusted our courses
What do our clients think about us? Just click the TrustPilot icon to read some reviews
Authors: Brenda de Jong-Pauley, MA, Director, The English Center and Alexandra Roberts, BA, English teacher.
Ever feel like you're wrestling with AI, trying to get it to understand what you need? You're not alone. Many business professionals are discovering the power of Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT and Gemini, but struggle to get truly useful results. It’s like having a super-smart assistant who requires very specific instructions. Unless you know how to communicate clearly, you won’t unlock their full potential.
This guide will teach you the art of prompt engineering—crafting clear instructions for AI to get the exact results you want. Think of it as learning to "talk" to AI so it understands you perfectly.
Are you an intermediate or advanced learner who's looking to improve your workplace English?
Check out our Private English Courses or our Private Business English Courses
Why choose The English Center for your training?
We are CEDEO-erkend and get excellent Trustpilot reviews for our Business English courses in Amsterdam.
To get the best results, you should combine fundamental principles with more advanced methods. Let's cover them first, and then we'll see them in action.
1. Be Clear and Specific: Use simple, direct language. Avoid jargon or ambiguous terms. Clearly state what you want the AI to do.
2. Provide Context: Give the AI the background information it needs to understand the task. Who is the audience? What is the goal of the communication?
3. Define the Tone and Style: Tell the AI how you want it to sound.
4. Use English for Best Results: While many AI models are multilingual, they are most extensively trained on English data. You will almost always get more accurate and nuanced results by writing your prompts in English.
Now, let's see how applying and combining these techniques can transform a simple request into a powerful, ready-to-use draft.
This prompt gives the AI almost no direction.
Prompt: "Write an email about a new product."
The result is a generic template that isn't helpful because the AI has to guess everything.
This prompt is better because it provides the basic building blocks from our core principles.
Prompt: "You are a marketing expert. Write a persuasive email to potential customers about our new AI-powered project management software. Highlight these benefits: increased efficiency, better collaboration, and reduced project costs. Use a professional but friendly tone. Keep it under 200 words."
This result is more focused and highlights value, but still lacks the deep context to be truly compelling.
This prompt gives the AI deep context, turning it into a creative partner by combining our core principles with advanced techniques.
Prompt: "You are the Head of Growth at 'NexusFlow,' a startup challenging established players like Asana. Your brand voice is confident and modern.
Task: Write a launch email for our new product, 'NexusFlow AI.' Its key feature is a predictive engine that forecasts timeline delays and budget overruns.
Audience: Your target is tech-savvy Project Managers at mid-sized companies. Their main problem is dealing with unexpected project delays.
Goal: Get them to sign up for a '14-day free trial, no credit card required.'
Format:
The AI can now produce a near-perfect draft because the prompt masterfully applies the key principles we've discussed:
It's important to know that AI models are not perfect at counting words or characters, so the result might not be exact. However, providing these constraints is still a very powerful technique. It guides the AI to be concise and produces a result much closer to your desired length than a prompt without any limits.
AI tools like Large Language Models (LLMs) can help with much more than just writing emails. Here are some practical ways you can use AI at work:
If you're feeling stuck or unsure where to start, try asking your preferred LLM for help or ideas! A simple prompt like "Help me brainstorm ideas for a marketing campaign" or "Give me an outline for a report on [topic]" can be a great way to get the ball rolling.
AI is a powerful tool, but it's important to use it wisely.
Even with great prompts, AI can make mistakes or "hallucinate" facts. Think of AI as a helpful assistant, not a perfect expert. Always review and edit AI-generated content to check for accuracy and ensure it reflects your own knowledge and values.
A key strategy to prevent these errors is to provide explicit context in your prompt. Instead of relying on the AI's memorized knowledge, give it the specific information it needs. Our expert prompt didn't just say "write about a product," it provided the product brief. This practice, known as "grounding," significantly reduces the chance of hallucinations.
Be careful what you share. With free versions of popular AI tools, your data often becomes the product—meaning your prompts may be used by the AI company to train its future models. When using any AI model for professional purposes, always:
AI models are trained on vast amounts of data from the internet, which contains human biases. Always check the AI's output to ensure it is fair and appropriate.
By mastering the art of prompt writing, you can transform AI from a confusing tool into a powerful partner that boosts your productivity. But remember, AI is just one piece of the communication puzzle.
At The English Center, we understand that effective communication is the key to success. While AI can assist with writing, true confidence comes from mastering the nuances of spoken English and cross-cultural interaction. We are committed to helping you develop all the communication skills you need to succeed in today's global business environment.
You can work with a professional native-speaker trainer and get real-world practice in:
Prefer to stay home? Contact us about English Center courses online!
Since 2009, thousands of learners have trusted our courses
What do our clients think about us? Just click the TrustPilot icon to read some reviews.
Authors: Brenda de Jong-Pauley, MA, Director, The English Center and Alexandra Roberts, BA, English teacher. And special thanks to DJ Human, Head of AI at Raw Power Labs for his expertise.
