Tips for Learning English: Free & Easy

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

Also, you don’t have to be a native English speaker to find a job abroad. For example, most of our partners look for candidates with a B1-level English proficiency. And with some active learning and active listening, that’s an achievable goal.

That said, here are 4 tips for learning English as quickly as possible to help you get your new job faster.

Tips for How To Learn English

Use Apps and Online Tools

Among the best tips to learn English, let’s start off with some of the simplest. Thanks to technology, you can learn new languages fast, in engaging and accessible ways. Yes, applications do work, and could help you with reading comprehension, fluency, and vocabulary building.

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

How to learn English step-by-step? Well-established apps like Duolingo can help you, as they transform language learning into a fun game, offering bit-sized lessons, interactive exercises and immediate feedback. 

These immersion techniques can help out everyone from beginners to advanced speakers. The gamified approach keeps you motivated as you unlock achievements, earn points, 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 is another self-study app that offers a practical approach to learning English. It focuses on real-live conversations and situations, and it can be extremely beneficial for those who plan to work abroad. It simply teaches the language skills needed to tackle everyday interactions and job interviews. 

BBC Learning English

If you don’t really favor the language learning apps above, you can always take advantage of BBC learning English. This is a free, high-quality resource with great audio materials (to hone your listening skills), videos, grammar exercises, vocabulary expansions, and pronunciation exercises. 

Anki

Anki is a flashcard app that allows you to create custom decks of cards for vocabulary practice. 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

If you are on a more advanced level, you can explore English learning channels and YouTube podcasts. From language teachers offering grammar lessons to native speakers providing pronunciation tips, you can find everything you need here. 

If you are into active learning, you can also just watch whatever you like. From crafting tutorials to historic documentaries, you can engage English subtitles and try to figure out the entire context yourself. At first, it may be difficult, but listening to the language constantly is among the best tips we can give to learn English.

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.

Practice, Practice, Practice

This is the single most important English learning tip we can give you. Consistent practice is essential to improving your English language skills. From exercising daily conversations to learning from apps, you can do everything, as long as it has something to do with the language. You can watch movies, listen to English audiobooks, or even play videogames (as long as they are in English).

Engage in Conversations

Direct communication may be a bit demanding, but it’s among the cornerstones of learning English for beginners. That said, 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

Instead of boring writing exercises, keep a journal in English. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy, just write down what happened during the day. Write about topics that interest you to stay engaged and committed to the routine.

Online Language Communities

How to learn English fast while staying home? Joining an online language forum or learning community is also a good idea.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

Among the most useful English learning tips, listening to podcasts tops the list in terms of active listening and building vocabulary while not speaking.

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 practice 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.

Pro Tip to learn English: 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

You don’t necessarily need language schools to get better at a foreign language. 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!

Pro tip for how to learn English: 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.

Expert English Learning 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.

How to Learn 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

If you’re not really looking for time-consuming tutorials on how to learn English step by step, and want to get in the deep end right away, consider moving 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. 

Because the speakers will be from different nationalities, you can further improve your active listening, as everyone will use a specific accent to say the same thing. 

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

How can I learn English once I’m in the Netherlands? Let’s face it, you can survive in most cases with communicating only the bare minimum. So, take the initiative and get out there!

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 English for beginners 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!