Skills Series: Preparing For Interviews

Researching the Company

One of the most important things you can do to prepare for a job interview in the construction industry is to research the company. By doing so, you can gain a better understanding of the company’s values, mission, and culture, as well as the specific projects and services they offer. Here are some tips for researching the company:

1. Review their website: The company’s website is a great place to start. Look for information about the company’s history, mission, and values. Review their portfolio of projects to gain a better understanding of the types of work they do.
2. Look for news articles: Search for news articles about the company to get a sense of their reputation and recent developments.
3. Check social media: Review the company’s social media accounts to see what they are posting about and how they engage with their audience.
4. Network: Reach out to people in your professional network who may have worked with the company before to get insights into their experience.

Anticipating Questions

During an interview, you can expect to be asked a range of questions about your experience, skills, and qualifications. Here are some tips for anticipating and preparing for these questions:

1. Review the job description: Review the job description to identify the key skills and qualifications the employer is looking for. Be prepared to provide specific examples of how you meet these requirements.
2. Review your resume: Review your resume and be prepared to provide more detail about your skills and experience. Think about specific examples that demonstrate your abilities.
3. Practice common interview questions: Practice answering common interview questions such as “What are your strengths?” and “What are your weaknesses?” to feel more confident during the interview.

Presenting Yourself Professionally

During the interview, it’s important to present yourself in a professional manner. Here are some tips for presenting yourself professionally:

1. Dress appropriately: Dress professionally for the interview. If you’re not sure what to wear, it’s better to err on the side of being overdressed.
2. Arrive early: Arrive at least 15 minutes early for the interview to give yourself time to check in and collect your thoughts.
3. Be courteous: Be polite and courteous to everyone you meet, from the receptionist to the interviewer.
4. Maintain eye contact: Make eye contact with the interviewer and speak clearly and confidently.
5. Follow up: After the interview, send a thank-you note or email to the interviewer to express your gratitude for the opportunity and reiterate your interest in the position.

Conclusion

Preparing for an interview in the construction industry requires research, preparation, and a professional demeanor. By researching the company, anticipating questions, and presenting yourself professionally, you can increase your chances of making a great impression and landing the job. Remember to dress appropriately, arrive early, be courteous, maintain eye contact, and follow up after the interview to demonstrate your enthusiasm for the position. With these tips and strategies, you can confidently prepare for your next job interview and take the next step in your career in the construction industry.

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering, and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing: www.webuildstaffing.com. To learn more about Michael, or to follow his blog, please visit www.michaeldesafey.com.