Common English Mistakes in Career Portfolios by Arabic Speakers

This page focuses on errors typically made by native Arabic speakers from United Arab Emirates when writing a Career Portfolio in English.

Mistake Example #1

Overuse of passive voice

In my career portfolio, it isI highlighted thatmy extensive experience in project management, which I hasve gained over the past five years. NI completed numerous successful projects were completed, anddeveloped my leadership skillswere developed through various challenging situations. It is believeI have consistently demonstrated thatmy strong communication abilities and a strategic mindsetwere demonstrated consistently, which contributed to the achievement of myteam's goals.

Text corrected by:
Jennifer, Detroit, Michigan USA

"I changed some of the passive voice constructions to the active voice. This should improve the flow of the text."

In my career portfolio, I highlighted my extensive experience in project management, which I have gained over the past five years. I completed numerous successful project and developed my leadership skills through various challenging situations. I believe I have consistently demonstrated my strong communication abilities and a strategic mindset, which contributed to the achievement of my team's goals.

In my career portfolio, it is highlighted that extensive experience in project management was gained over the past five years. Numerous successful projects were completed, and leadership skills were developed through various challenging situations. It is believed that strong communication abilities and a strategic mindset were demonstrated consistently, which contributed to the achievement of team goals.

Mistake Example #2

Misuse of articles ('I have car' instead of 'I have a car')

I am writing to include my experience in mycareer portfolio. I have worked asa software engineer for five years in Dubai. During this time, I have developed strong skills in programming and project management. I am confident that my experience and skills make me asuitable candidate forthe position you have advertised.

Text corrected by:
Miss E., Cyprus, Europe

"This is well-written overall. Remember to use articles in your sentences: "I have worked as software engineer for five years in Dubai." should be "I have worked as a software engineer for five years in Dubai." and "make me suitable candidate for position" should be "make me a suitable candidate for the position"."

I am writing to include my experience in my career portfolio. I have worked as a software engineer for five years in Dubai. During this time, I have developed strong skills in programming and project management. I am confident that my experience and skills make me a suitable candidate for the position you have advertised.

I am writing to include my experience in career portfolio. I have worked as software engineer for five years in Dubai. During this time, I have developed strong skills in programming and project management. I am confident that my experience and skills make me suitable candidate for position you have advertised.