5 Interview Questions You Need for a Construction Job

For those seeking a new construction job, finding one that pays well isn’t the difficult part. Finding a company that represents a fantastic long-term fit is altogether different. Never in U.S. history has there ever been more demand for experienced construction professionals.

Construction jobs are easy to find. Construction Companies that represent a long-term fit are not.

One of the biggest issues plaguing the construction industry today is the amount of job turnover. While job applicants tend to be attracted to companies with competitive compensation and relevant project types, most don’t dig deep enough. While executive search firms often advise these candidates on interview tips and tricks, very few take the time to coach their candidates on how to vet the opportunities to ensure they translate to a fulfilling construction career.

Candidates need to interview prospective construction employers.

Construction professionals who don’t take time to figure out they want to get out of a new construction job end up losing in the long run. With a few simple questions in their arsenal, however, these same candidates can uncover in-depth information that will help to reveal if the company they are speaking with will be able to provide the professional fulfillment they seek.

5 Key Interview Questions

Question 1: What would be your expectations of me in this role? Don’t assume that a construction job comes with the same expectations your previous employer had. This question will help to reveal where you will spend your time, what their overall expectations are and if they align with your own goals.

Question 2: What defines a “Top Performer” at your company? You may think that a safety-focused Superintendent who shows up at 6am each day is a top performer. Your prospective employer may feel differently and expect you to work every weekend, leave safety up to the directors and stay hands-off with project management. These types of disconnects can lead to long-term confusion and disengagement for both employer and employee down the road.

Question 3: What obstacles do you anticipate for your company? This question may catch an employer off guard but the information you can gain is valuable. This question should reveal a great deal about the competitive landscape, economic hurdles and potential pitfalls that you should be aware of before you accept a new position.

Question 4: How would you see me dividing my time? Did you think you would be out in the field most of the time, actively presenting to owners and clients? Don’t assume a thing. Your new employer may want you in a behind-the-scenes role processing paperwork. Again, take time to dig into the details so there are no unhappy surprises down the road.

Question 5: What skills and characteristics do you value in an employee outside of work? This question will reveal a great deal about the company’s work culture. Whether they seek a worker willing to be on call 24-7 or those pursuing hobbies outside of work, these values define the overall company culture.