Keep calm and carry on!
Using the Present Simple vs Present Continuous correctly in an interview.
Duration: 1 HOUR.
Using the Present Simple vs Present Continuous correctly in an interview.
In interviews, using the correct verb tense is essential to communicating your thoughts and ideas clearly and effectively. One common mistake that jobseekers make is incorrectly using the present simple and present continuous tenses.
The present simple tense is used to describe habits, routines, and general facts, while the present continuous tense is used to describe actions that are currently in progress.
Common mistakes to avoid.
Using the present continuous tense to describe a habit or routine.
In this case, we are talking about routine, “I always check”.
Incorrect:
“I am always checking my emails first thing in the morning.”
”Correct:
“I always check my emails first thing in the morning.”
Using the present simple tense to describe an action in progress.
In this case, an action in progress, “I am checking”.
Incorrect:
“I check my emails while I am writing the report.”
Correct:
“I am checking my emails while I write the report.”
Using the present simple tense to describe a temporary action.
In this case, a temporary action, “I am working on”.
Incorrect:
“I work on this new project right now.”
Correct:
“I am working on this new project right now.”
Using the present continuous tense to describe a permanent fact.
In this case, a permanent fact, “I have been living”.
Incorrect:
“I am living in London for five years.”
Correct:
“I have been living in London for five years.”
Here’s an essential Tip!
The present simple tense is used to describe habits, routines, and general facts. The present continuous tense is used to describe actions that are currently in progress.
By using the correct verb tense, you demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively and showcase your language skills to the interviewer. Take the time to review your answers before the interview to ensure you are using the appropriate tense for each situation.
“The present simple”
The present simple tense is used to describe habits, routines, and general facts.
“I am working on this new project right now.”
“The present continuous”
The present continuous tense is used to describe actions that are currently in progress.
“I have been living in London for five years.”
Answer each question in the quiz.
Here is a test to help you practise using the present simple and present continuous tenses correctly in an interview.
Use the present simple or the present continuous tense.
- What do you usually do to prepare for a job interview?
Answered in the present simple. I typically research the company and review the job requirements before the interview. - What are you doing right now to improve your skills?
- Do you often take on new challenges at work?
- Are you currently working on any projects?
- How do you usually handle difficult situations in the workplace?
- What are you currently working on to improve your productivity?
- Do you often collaborate with your colleagues on projects?
- Are you currently using any new software or tools to complete your work?
- How do you usually manage your time and prioritize tasks?
- What are you doing right now to advance your career?
Answers
- “I usually research the company and review the job requirements before the interview.” (present simple)
- “I am currently taking an online course to improve my skills.”
(present continuous) - “Yes, I always take on new challenges to push myself and grow in my career.” (present simple)
- “Yes, I am currently working on a project to improve our company’s social media presence.” (present continuous)
- “I usually take a step back and evaluate the situation before coming up with a solution.” (present simple)
- “I am currently using a new task management tool to improve my productivity.” (present continuous)
- “Yes, I often collaborate with my colleagues on projects to ensure we achieve the best results.” (present simple)
- “Yes, I am currently using a new software program to track my project’s progress.” (present continuous)
- “I usually make a to-do list and prioritize tasks based on their importance and deadline.” (present simple)
- “I am currently networking with industry professionals and attending relevant conferences to advance my career.” (present continuous)
Lessons selected for you.
