How to Choose the Right Examples for Your Job Interview. Job Interview Stories (Part 2)

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 In Part 1 of this series, we focused on clarity before confidence - why being clear about your role and value matters more than sounding impressive. If you prefer to listen rather than read, this topic is also discussed in the Business English Talks podcast, where we break down real interview answers and explain why some of them work better than others. In this article, we move to the next step: choosing the right examples. Even professionals with strong experience often struggle in interviews because they talk about the wrong situations - or they choose examples that are too complex, too vague, or not clearly connected to the question. This article will help you choose examples that are: easy to explain, relevant to the role, and effective in real interview situations. Along the way, you’ll find ready-to-use Business English phrases you can apply immediately. Why examples matter more than job titles Interviewers don’t hire job titles. They hire people who can solve problems and ...
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3 Business English Phrases You Should Stop Saying (And What to Say Instead)

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I you're looking to sound more polished and professional in business communication, one of the easiest places to start is by refining the phrases you use. Certain phrases may seem harmless but can come across as outdated, overly formal, or even confusing. Let’s dive into three common phrases to ditch—and what to use instead.

1. "I will revert back to you."


This phrase is commonly used in business communication, but it’s incorrect and redundant. The word "revert" means to return to a previous state or condition—not to respond to someone.


Why Avoid It?


It’s grammatically incorrect.


It can make you sound careless with language.


What to Say Instead:


"I will get back to you."


"I’ll respond as soon as I have the information."


Example:


Instead of: "I will revert back to you once I have the report."


Say: "I will get back to you with the report soon."


This alternative is clear, concise, and professional.


2. "Per our telephonic conversation."


Phrases like this belong in a dusty business textbook. They sound overly formal and stiff, which can create distance between you and your reader or listener.


Why Avoid It?


It’s outdated and robotic.


It doesn’t foster connection.


What to Say Instead:


"As we discussed on the phone."


"Following up on our call."


Example:


Instead of: "Per our telephonic conversation, I am attaching the document."


Say: "As we discussed on the phone, I’m attaching the document."


This phrasing sounds approachable while maintaining professionalism.


3. "Please find attached."


While this phrase is not incorrect, it’s unnecessarily formal and can make you sound distant. It’s better to use a conversational tone that aligns with modern business communication.


Why Avoid It?


It feels impersonal.


It doesn’t reflect how people actually speak.


What to Say Instead:


"I’ve attached [document name]."


"Here’s the [document name] we discussed."


Instead of: "Please find attached the report for your review."


Say: "I’ve attached the report for your review."


This simple change makes your email sound more natural and relatable.


Why These Changes Matter


Business communication is about building relationships and making your message clear. Phrases that are overly formal, outdated, or incorrect can create unnecessary barriers. By replacing them with more modern and conversational alternatives, you’ll:


Improve clarity.


Build better rapport with colleagues and clients.


Sound more confident and professional.


Final Tip


Pay attention to the phrases you use and how others react to them. Communication isn’t just about the words—it’s about the impression you leave. Small changes can make a big difference!

Want more tips on improving your Business English? Check out our podcast Business English Talks on Spotify.

What other phrases do you think should be retired from business English? Let us know in the comments or share your thoughts with a colleague.



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