English language proficiency plays a fundamental role in shaping the employability of university graduates,

particularly in multilingual contexts like Malaysia where English dominates professional and corporate

communication. This paper examines how English language competency influences graduates’ performance

in three critical areas of employability that include: job interviews, resume writing, and workplace

employers. In workplace settings, effective English language communication is crucial for tasks such as

report writing, meetings, and client engagement, where poor or inadequate proficiency can hinder career

progression. Generally, findings underscore the importance of embedding practical English training in

higher education to bridge existing skill gaps. Effort to Strengthen English language proficiency is not

English proficiency plays a significant and basic role English plays in conditioning graduating participants

for the workforce while it is often viewed as yet another component of the academic requirements. In

Malaysia, where English is a dominant language of discourse across numerous disciplines and excellent

al., 2023; Kamil & Muhammad 2021). Furthermore, embedding soft skills such as English communication

in academic programs is becoming an expectation of exposure in preparing students for the characteristics

of work, such as resilience at work (Noah & Abdul Aziz, 2020). Highlighted in this context are the

limitations in English training opportunities that can be structured into a more career-specific set of English

This study examines the impact of English language proficiency on university graduates' employability,

highlighting how strong English skills contribute to success in job interviews, resume writing, and

workplace communication.

Research Questions:

This paper adopts qualitative approach where reference is made on relevant and reliable previous studies in

addressing the research questions.

In many countries, especially Malaysia, it is known as a country that uses English widely in the corporate

and professional sectors, and strong English communication skills allow candidates to express their ideas

clearly, confidently, and persuasively (Deepa et al., 2023). Graduates who possess a good command of

English are more likely to leave a positive impression on interviewers, which increases their chances of

securing employment. According to Rido (2019), employers usually reject applicants who have a low ability

show their leadership or problem-solving abilities. Graduates who struggle to comprehend English well may

find it hard to explain their answer clearly, which can result in replies that are brief, vague, or lacking,

which could be interpreted as incompetence or lack of preparation.

Employers would then assume that such applicants would likewise find it difficult to communicate well in

actual work settings. (Deepa et al., 2024). As Daqiq et al. (2024) highlight, graduates who can communicate

in English well will make themselves stand out in interviews and increase their chances of getting a job

offer, making English language skills another important factor influencing interview performance among

university graduates. Therefore, improving English-speaking skills is crucial for students who want to be

successful in the employment process, especially in multinational or English-dominant working

environments.

It's important to have a strong and clear resume these days. The first thing employers review when selecting

candidates to interview is often this matter because proficiency in English is crucial for job seekers to

showcase their qualifications professionally, given that it is the predominant language used on numerous

Malaysian work-related resumes and applications.

using ambiguous or repetitious language (Nesaratnam et al., 2020).

A resume with a strong structure can provide employers with more visibility for essential information such

as education, experience, and skills (Wulandari et al, 2022; Nesaratnam & Associates, 2020). Fluency in

English is beneficial for the development of human capital, as it demonstrates diligence, professionalism,

and attention to detail.

English proficiency plays a vital role in boosting the employability and effectiveness of university graduates

graduates to communicate effectively in English particularly in tasks like writing emails, participating in

meetings, preparing documents, and engaging with clients. According to Al-Riyami (2020), many Omani

professionally, and expressing ideas clearly in discussions. As noted by Çal, Mearns, and Admiraal (2023),

poor English skills can make an otherwise capable graduate appear unprofessional. Karim et al. (2022)

found that STEM and business graduates from English-medium institutions performed better in key

communication tasks, such as writing reports and negotiating, and were more likely to take on leadership

roles.

In Malaysia, Hiew et al. (2023) highlighted that English-proficient science graduates were more likely to be

employed and entrusted with critical responsibilities, especially in international settings, while those with

weak English faced difficulties advancing. Early language struggles, as identified by Nithideechaiwarachok

et al. (2022), often begin in the first year of university and can negatively impact future workplace

communication if not addressed. Together, this research backs up the idea that being good at English has

become a key job skill. Students who can talk well in English have better chances at good jobs, while those

who struggle with it might face big hurdles.

English language proficiency plays a crucial role in helping graduates perform well during job interviews.

Strong English skills allow candidates to express their ideas clearly and confidently, which leaves a positive

impression on interviewers (Deepa et al., 2023). Studies show that poor English communication often leads

to rejection, as employers may see unclear or brief responses as a sign of incompetence or lack of

preparation (Rido, 2019; Hidayat, 2024). Job interviews frequently involve situational questions and role-

play tasks, which require candidates to explain their achievements and demonstrate problem-solving

abilities.

Graduates with weak English skills may struggle with these tasks, causing them to appear less capable even

if they have the required qualifications. Employers often assume that if a candidate cannot communicate

well during an interview, they are likely to face similar challenges in the workplace (Deepa et al., 2024).

A well-written resume is often the first step to securing a job, and English proficiency is essential for

making a strong first impression. Resumes with grammar errors, unclear structure, or awkward phrasing can

cause employers to overlook otherwise qualified candidates (Wulandari et al., 2022). Since most job

applications in Malaysia are prepared in English, graduates must use accurate language and relevant

industry terms to demonstrate professionalism (Nesaratnam et al., 2020).

achievements, especially when there are many applications to review. Good English also reflects attention to

detail and diligence, traits that employers value highly. On the other hand, poorly written resumes may

suggest a lack of care or communication skills, which can negatively impact hiring decisions. This shows

that English proficiency not only helps graduates highlight their strengths but also positions them as

competent and employable individuals in the eyes of potential employers. In a competitive job market, a

strong English resume can be a deciding factor between being shortlisted or rejected.

English proficiency is vital for effective workplace communication, especially in today’s global job market.

Graduates are expected to perform various tasks in English, such as writing professional emails,

participating in meetings, preparing reports, and engaging with clients. Research shows that weak English

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