How to Learn English for Career Success

New Zealand isn't just a beautiful country with stunning landscapes—it's also home to world-class educational institutions. And as an English-speaking country, New Zealand offers you the perfect setting to immerse yourself in the language, learning both in and outside of the classroom. 

Many students who come to New Zealand find that their language skills and career prospects improve dramatically. Just ask Ragavan Rajan, a student from India studying for a Master of Information Technology at the University of Waikato. He shared: 

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to sharpen your skills, New Zealand provides endless opportunities to grow. 

Before you worry about not speaking perfect English right away, here's some good news: New Zealand is a wonderfully diverse place. While English is the most commonly spoken language, it’s not the only one. New Zealand has three official languages: English, te reo Māori (the language of the indigenous Māori people), and New Zealand Sign Language. 

In fact, many people in New Zealand speak multiple languages! So if you’re feeling nervous about your English skills, remember: You’ll be surrounded by a community that understands the journey of learning a new language. Plus, you’ll get plenty of chances to practice! 

When it comes to studying English in New Zealand, the country’s schools and universities are equipped to support you at every step. In New Zealand, English is taught as a core subject in schools, and there are specialized ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) classes for students who need extra help. These classes cater to all aspects of the language—reading, writing, speaking, and listening—so you’ll be building a well-rounded skill set. 

But learning English here isn’t just about textbooks. New Zealand’s focus on immersion—surrounding yourself with English in everyday life—makes learning both fun and effective. Whether you’re chatting with classmates or practicing English in a café, you’ll quickly gain confidence in your ability to communicate. 

Brazilian student Jennifer Bertero shares: 

In today’s world, your smartphone is a powerful tool to improve your English! Apps like Duolingo, Babbel, and even social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook can all be set to English, giving you constant exposure to the language. You can also use translation tools to look up unfamiliar words or explore interactive language games that make learning feel like fun. 

So don’t just wait for your classes—turn your daily routine into an opportunity to learn English! 

One of the best ways to improve your spoken English is to practice it in a fun, relaxed setting. Joining an English club or language exchange group is a fantastic way to meet new people while boosting your language skills. Many universities and local communities in New Zealand host language exchange events where students can chat and learn from one another in a casual environment. 

For example, the Mundo Lingo language exchange evenings in Auckland and Wellington are popular spots for international students to practice their English with new friends. Plus, you’ll get a chance to pick up phrases that native speakers use in everyday conversation. 

The more you immerse yourself in New Zealand’s culture, the quicker your English will improve. Whether you join a sports team, take a cooking class, or just go out and explore, you’ll encounter plenty of new opportunities to practice English in different contexts. 

And don't forget: you’re not alone on this journey! By making new friends in New Zealand, you can practice English together and support each other through the learning process. Plus, having friends around means you’ll have people to lean on when life gets tough—whether it’s understanding something at the doctor’s office or just needing a bit of encouragement. 

If you’re working part-time while studying, that’s another great opportunity to improve your English skills. Communicating with customers or colleagues in a New Zealand workplace will expose you to common workplace language, terms, and phrases that will serve you well in any career. 

David Campbell, a former international student , scored a job as a Project Manager at Tesla. He recommends studying abroad as a way to stand out in the job market.

he shares.

Remember, everyone makes mistakes! Even native English speakers slip up from time to time. The most important thing is to keep practicing. Every mistake is a chance to learn, and every new word you pick up will bring you one step closer to fluency. 

So, don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Treat each day as an opportunity to learn something new, and soon enough, you’ll feel more confident speaking English wherever you go. 

New Zealand is an amazing place to learn English, and with the right attitude and support, you’ll be speaking with confidence in no time. Want to know more about how to get started? Check out the Course Finder to find the perfect English course that fits your needs and interests. Whether you’re focusing on business English, academic English, or just improving your daily communication skills, there’s a course in New Zealand that’s right for you.