16 Tips And Tricks To Learn English: Free & Easy

If you’re looking for a job abroad, you need to be able to communicate with your new employer and colleagues. Luckily, you don’t have to learn a completely new language since English is fairly widely spoken in non-English-speaking countries.

And that’s not all: You don’t have to be a native English speaker to find a job abroad. For instance, most of our partners look for people with a B1 level of English. That’s an achievable goal since the English language is all around us.

And with these 16 tips and tricks, you will learn English quickly and be prepared for your new job abroad!

Use Apps and Online Tools

Thanks to a treasure trove of free apps and online tools, language learning is as accessible, engaging, and easy as ever.

With quizzes and exercises, English learning apps can help you perfect your grammar and vocabulary, whether you’re looking to find a job abroad or impress your family and friends on your next vacation. 

Here are the top English learning tools we recommend.

Duolingo

Duolingo is the go-to app for language learners worldwide. It transforms language learning into a fun game, offering bite-sized lessons, interactive exercises, and immediate feedback.

You’ll find courses for beginners, intermediate, and advanced speakers. The app’s gamified approach keeps you motivated as you earn points, unlock achievements, and track progress.

Memrise

Memrise specialises in vocabulary building and retention. This app helps you remember words and phrases effectively. It gives you access to various English courses and lessons, including more informal everyday language.

Babbel

Babbel offers a practical approach to language learning, focusing on real-life situations and conversations. It’s particularly beneficial for those planning to work abroad, as it teaches you the language skills needed for everyday interactions, job interviews, and professional settings.

BBC Learning English

For free, high-quality resources, BBC Learning English is ideal. Their website and app provide lessons, videos, and audio materials that cover grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. You can even explore daily news 

Anki

Anki is a flashcard app that allows you to create custom decks of cards for vocabulary practise. It uses spaced repetition to help you remember words more effectively over time. You can also find shared decks created by other users, making it a versatile tool for language learners.

YouTube

YouTube is a treasure trove of English learning channels. From language teachers offering grammar lessons to native speakers providing pronunciation tips, you can find everything you need here. 

Grammarly

Perfecting your written English is crucial, especially when applying for jobs abroad. Grammarly is a handy writing tool that helps you correct grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. It also offers suggestions for improving your writing style.

With these free apps, improving your English has never been more accessible.

Practise, Practise, Practise

Consistent practise is essential to improving your English language skills  

Engage in Conversations

Find someone you can speak English to. Check out online forums where you can chat in English or ask a friend to help you for at least 10 minutes a day. 

Don’t be afraid to make mistakes; they’re an essential part of the learning process. Encourage your language partners to correct you when necessary, as this will help you improve.

Keep an English Diary

Maintaining a journal in English is a fantastic way to practise writing skills. It can be as simple as writing what happened in your day. . Write about topics that interest you to stay engaged and committed to the practise.

Online Language Communities

Join online language learning communities or forums. Websites like Reddit and Quora have dedicated sections where you can ask questions, engage in discussions, and seek advice on English language learning.

Podcasts for Listening Practise

There are a wealth of free English-language podcasts available on various topics. Listen to podcasts that interest you, and challenge yourself with more advanced content as you improve. Podcasts provide valuable listening practise and help you get used to different accents. 

Make Learning Fun

Just like with any other skill, you can embrace a fun and free approach to language learning. Having fun in the process will help you stick to the plan and learn faster. Here are some ideas on how to learn English through your favourite activities:

Watch Movies And TV Shows

Films and TV shows are everyday activities we do to relax and entertain. If you stop watching TV in your first language and shift to English-speaking shows, it will give you new vocabulary and help you stay motivated!

On top of that, spending time watching films and TV shows is something you will probably do anyway, so why not make it a learning opportunity?

Reading and listening to a new language are completely different activities. Sometimes listening to spoken English can be tough due to the many different accents. American and British English quite differ, so make sure to start with one and combine the two when comfortable.

Tip: If you’re just starting to learn, begin with movies or shows you enjoy, preferably with English audio and subtitles in your native language. As you progress, switch to English subtitles or turn them off entirely to challenge your listening skills. Don’t hesitate to replay scenes or dialogue to grasp nuances and pronunciation better.

Listen to Music

Music fulfils our time on chores and errands, such as doing laundry and driving to work. So, this is an excellent opportunity to learn new English words and phrases by listening to your favourite artist!

Tip: Select songs with clear lyrics and slower tempos. Try karaoke-style apps or websites where you can sing along and see the lyrics in real time. Look up the lyrics, translate them, and discuss the meaning with a language partner, a native speaker, or a friend fluent in English.

Challenge: Grasp the lyrics and try to pronounce the verses you’re listening to. This will help you improve your English-speaking skills.

Read Stories and Newspapers

Another daily activity, like reading news and stories, can be a game-changer in your learning path. Reading in a new language helps you add new vocabulary.

Tip: Start with children’s books and literature for language learners. Make it a habit to read something in English every day, even if it’s just a short article. Highlight and write down unfamiliar words, then review and use them in sentences to reinforce your vocabulary.

If you already have decent knowledge and only want to improve your English, look for something you are passionate about. For instance, if you enjoy flowers and gardening, look for magazines and blog pages on those topics and follow them daily.

Engage on Social Media

Social media platforms are intended for communication, making them the perfect tool to chat in English.

Tip: Follow English-speaking accounts, especially those related to your interests or industry, on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Engage in discussions, comment in English, and share your thoughts to practise informal communication.

We publish regularly on our media accounts in English, so feel free to follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn for more practical tips and the freshest job opportunities abroad.

Move Abroad

Moving abroad, especially to a country like the Netherlands, where about 90-93% speak English, can make all the difference.

Here’s how making the leap to live and work abroad can significantly benefit your English proficiency:

Everyday Immersion

Moving to an English-speaking country like the Netherlands provides an unparalleled opportunity for you to use the language. English becomes not just a tool for communication but an integral part of your daily life. You’ll hear and use English in various settings, from work and social interactions to shopping and leisure..

Diverse Workforce

Workers in The Netherlands mostly speak English fluently. Many multinational companies and organisations operate primarily in English, particularly in major cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht. This means you can find a job without needing Dutch language skills, which can further motivate you to improve your English.

English-Friendly Culture

Dutch society is exceptionally welcoming to non-Dutch speakers. English is widely taught in schools, and many Dutch people speak English fluently. This supportive atmosphere encourages foreigners to engage with locals in English

Networking and Socialising

Living abroad offers countless opportunities to meet new people from different countries. Engaging in social activities, clubs, and events not only enriches your personal life but also provides ample chances to use English

Professional Growth

Working in the Netherlands can open doors to international career prospects. Many businesses value employees who can communicate effectively in EnglishThe experience gained in Dutch workplaces can enhance your resume and make you more competitive in the global job market.

Language Learning Support

The Netherlands is home to numerous language schools and resources designed to help foreigners improve their English skills. Whether you prefer formal language classes or informal meetups, you can find it all here.

Many native English speakers work as teachers in such schools, making learning and improving communication skills professional and easy.

Final Words

Learning a new language is a long-term process, so don’t be too harsh on yourself and expect to learn everything in a few days. Have fun and do a little bit each day. 

By following these tips and tricks we provided, you will be ready for your next challenge soon!

Register on our website and start your journey in the Netherlands, Germany, or Belgium! We will help you find a suitable job position with accommodation!