Online – Construction Pathway Course
Step Six: Interview Preparation
So you’ve reached out to a company that you really want to work for and they’ve invited you in for an interview – CONGRATULATIONS!!
Now, the below information goes far beyond the average construction job interview situation, so please do not worry. Many small companies will just invite you to site for a quick chat or trial day.
However, if you apply to medium to large size company and are asked to attend their head office; then we have you covered…
1: Research the company
Nothing says ‘I don’t really want this job more’ than when the employer asks you ‘do you know what we do?’ and you answer ‘no’.
2: Be clear about why you want the job
Be prepared to tell the interviewer why you want that job – If an interviewer doesn’t think you’re really, really interested in the job, he or she won’t give you an offer – no matter how good you are!
Possible replies:
A: I’ve seen your company’s projects on social media and I would love to be part of your team.
B: I want to build a career with a respected company, I really want to be a great (roofer) and I believe (Pendragon Roofing) can teach me how.
3: Think about your employer’s doubts
If the interviewer asks about your lack of experience you could reply:
A: I know that you may be worried about my lack of experience but I can assure you that I am committed to a career in (roofing) and supporting a company like yours.
4: Prepare for common interview questions
Always take a copy of your C.V. to help you with questions, it will give you confidence, show that you’re prepared and how important this interview is to you.
Q: ‘How much do you know about (electrical installation)?
Q: ‘Why do you want a career in (construction)?
Q: ‘Construction is very different from your past role, how do you think you’ll manage on-site?’
5: Line up your questions for the interviewer
You will almost always be asked if you have any questions, there’s nothing wrong with saying ‘No thank you, I feel we’ve covered everything’, but you could respond with:
A: ‘Can you tell me more about the day-to-day responsibilities of this job’
B: ‘With regard to people you’ve hired before, where did you feel that they did not excel, so that I could try and avoid making the same mistakes should you hire me?’
C: ‘Should you take me on as a (labourer), I would be hoping to stay with you for a number of years, are their opportunities within your company to progress?
TOP TIP: Take a note pad with you with questions written down, it shows that what you talk about in the meeting is important to you.
6: Practice, practice, practice – talking about yourself
It’s ok to be nervous, we can all get a bit tongue-tied at times. The first time you try it you might struggle a little, no matter how clear your thoughts are in your own mind! Do it another 10 times, and you’ll sound a lot smoother!
7: Score a success in the first five minutes.
Always start off with a positive comment:
A: ‘Thank you for this opportunity, it means a lot to me’.
B: ‘I have seen the work you do on social media and I would love to be involved with your projects’.
C: ‘I really like the work you do, thank you for meeting with me today’.
8: Glow with positivity
Firstly, know that the employer wants you to win – they want you to be the right person for the job. Try not to dwell on the bad points, if you’re asked ‘What did you like least about that previous job?’, rather than a negative you could reply with:
A: ‘There was nothing I really disliked about my work, I just know that I want to build a career in construction’.
B: ‘Although I enjoyed my work at (Splash Pool), I felt like I wanted to do something more hands-on’.
9: Make the most of the ‘Tell me about yourself’ question.
Many interviewers begin with this question. So how should you reply?
A: I’m Thomas, age 32, from Helston, huge Chelsea fan, I enjoy surfing and projects that involve fixing things. I’ve previously worked in customer service roles but my dream career is in (construction).
B: I’m a dab hand with DIY and anything involving an eye for detail. Around a year ago I realised that I wanted to build a career in construction. Since then I have gained some health and safety qualifications and carried out a number of days work experience within the industry. And it was through this work experience I realised that I wanted to pursue a career in (roofing).
10: Don’t give up!
Not heard back after the interview? Don’t give up! Write a note, send an email, or call. They may be having a tough time choosing between you and another person and you getting in touch shows them that you’re keen and committed.
If they do hire someone else, it’s important not to beat yourself up about it. You’ll never know the reason why someone else was picked, but what you do know is that they missed out on all that you could’ve brought to that role.
So pick yourself up, brush yourself down and instead of wasting energy overthinking, use it to ready yourself for the next interview.
Follow these steps and it won’t be long until you’re hired, on-site and building the career of your dreams!