How to get into construction: Interviews
So you've got an interview coming up?
Before you put on a clean shirt and feel your knees go wobbly, there's plenty you can do to give yourself best possible chance of success.
Bricking It's Dr Phil gives us the insider's view:
You probably already know a bit about the company you are visiting from their website or brochure. But try to learn a bit about the person who will be interviewing you too. Take the time to get to know who may be your future employer.
Practice
Practice makes perfect. Have a dummy interview with a friend or relative.
This is a good chance for you to rehearse your answers. Most interviewers ask pretty much the same questions. The most predictable include:
It's pretty certain you'll be asked questions like these so have answers ready.
The interviewer won't expect you to know a great deal about the industry, but if you can demonstrate that you've done some research, thought about why you want to do the job, and have been doing everything you can to get it, your chances will be improved.
Be original
What makes your answers different? Saying "I've always been good with my hands," and "I've always been creative" says nothing about you or your enthusiasm.
Try thinking about why you really want to do the job. And why they should give it to you over other applicants.
Dress the part
How you present yourself is very important. First impressions do count.
A smart appearance will suggest to an employer that you have a good attitude, and that your work will be neat and accurate.
You might feel cool in a sweat top and a trainers but informal clothes and a chilled out attitude suggest to an employer that your performance on the job will be sloppy.
Be on time
Get to the interview in good time. The construction industry depends on punctuality.
Treat them keen
Make eye contact, and sit up straight. Be positive and eager to hear what the interviewer is saying. If you look keen the employer is more likely to take your application seriously.
How not to do it
I once sent a young lad for an interview at a joinery firm, and I spoke to the interviewer afterwards.
Firstly, the he arrived late, then during the interview he slid down his chair. He was wearing trainers and a cap. They were probably his best trainers and his best cap, but the interviewer wasn't impressed. He called me afterwards and said, "You'd think he'd make an effort".
