7 Steps to Nailing Your Next Construction Management Job Interview

Job interviews can be scary, even for people with exceptional and extensive construction careers.

You are under a microscope being asked questions about who you are and what you’ve got to offer, so there’s nothing worse than not knowing the answers (or saying something you don’t actually mean).

We’ve outlined what to do to smash your next job interview (if it’s still the one you want after your research!).

Before the Interview

Preparation is vital

Don’t leave your preparation to the last minute or the night before.

Start your research as soon as you’ve locked in an interview date & time. Review your research in the days leading up to the interview so you can answer questions thoughtfully and thoroughly.

You should already have figured out your own needs, wants, salary and deal-breakers, but if not, do this first.

Research the company & key staff

Gather as much information on the company and key staff as possible.

Check out the company’s profile on Conecta or LinkedIn and explore the company’s own website.

This will give you an indication of the company’s average project values and sector, company background and leadership team. Conecta also provides details on employee benefits and company values so you get a real feel for the business upfront.

Google backlog publications/newspaper articles for project highlights or recent project wins is another way to find relevant information that may not have gone onto the employer’s website. Publications to search in Australia are Conecta, the Australian Financial Review, The Urban Developer & Inside Construction.

Talk to other professionals in the industry, especially current and past employees. It’s a great way to familiarise yourself with the firm. In our opinion, employees are your best source of information.*

Sharing key pieces of company & leadership information throughout the interview builds real rapport and confirms your expertise and fit for the role.

Have your own questions prepared

Most interviews are a one-way street; make sure yours is not.

Be armed with questions to make your interview a two-way conversation. You can’t build a relationship with the interviewer when only one of you is speaking.

Some key questions to consider:

• Why is the position available?
• What does a normal day look like in this role?
• What progression opportunities are available?
• How would your team describe the organisational culture?
• What is the next step in the interview process?

During the interview

Dress for the company you’re interviewing at

There are not many suits & ties worn in construction, with firms moving to company-supplied professional merchandise like chinos, polo shirts and puffers.

Check the standard dress of employees on the company’s website and mirror it. Most likely it will be more informal.

Be prepared for standard questions and to show evidence of competency

Although we find most construction companies conduct less formal interviews than other industries, it is imperative you have identified your strengths and have project examples to call upon if asked.

Why are you a good fit for the role? Have experiences that are relevant to the job and the company.

You may face competency-based questions and will need evidence-based specific examples.

The interviewer will definitely know people and projects from your current or past employers so ensure you refresh your memory with details of your work history.

Ask your questions!

Don’t forget to ask the questions you worked hard preparing for.

Post Interview

Follow up

Providing you’ve asked the employer ‘what happens from here’ during the interview (see key questions above), simply do as advised.

Conclusion

Simply follow the list of steps and you’ll already be way ahead of your competition.

• Prepare in advance
• Research, research, research
• Prepare your own questions
• Dress appropriately
• Be ready to answer standard interview questions
• Ask your own questions
• Follow up as advised

*NB. Be mindful that everyone has a different opinion based on their own values & perspectives. You will likely receive an array of feedback, but don’t form your opinion based on what you hear. Instead, utilise this information to assist in your interview and then make your own informed decision once you’ve met the current leadership team.