As recruiters at JustinBradley, we spend a lot of time each day interviewing business, finance, and accounting professionals. We know that most people are nervous and excited about the process. One way to lower those nervous feelings during an interview is to be prepared. We encourage all our candidates to practice answering common interview questions (ideally out loud).
When you go on an interview for a contract job, here are six common questions you should think about and be ready for:
The person interviewing you wants to know if you are qualified for the job and if it fits with your life goals. Your answer will help reassure them that, despite being a contract worker, you are committed to the project.
**Don’t forget to tell the interviewer that you’re interested in the job when the interview is over. Say things such as “I’m very interested in this opportunity. I hope we can talk further. ” Or “From what you’ve told me, I’d like this job. ” Be sure to ask what the next step is. This draws the interview to a close and ensures everyone is on the same page moving forward.
Here at JustinBradley, we love behavioral interview questions, and you can definitely expect something similar to the above. How quickly you can jump in and start contributing will depend on how you answer this question.
If you’re a contract worker, it’s still important to get along with other workers so that the team stays motivated and gets work done. In case you get the job, prepare to talk about times when you worked well with a variety of people.
Now is your chance to shine! Get ready to talk about your achievements, and make sure you have a lot of them. If you want to get hired as a contractor, your skills and your ability to use them right away in an effective and efficient way will be your best selling point.
Be prepared to answer a range of specific technical questions related to your area of expertise. Share what you’ve achieved – processes improved, errors eliminated, savings identified. Use technical terms and numbers to be as specific as possible and show the interviewer how knowledgeable you are.
Lastly, it’s your turn to ask the questions. Prior to your interview, prepare a list of questions you might have for the hiring manager. This will not only show that you’re interested in the job, but it will also help you learn more about it and decide if it’s right for you. Questions we like are:
“What did you see in my background that made you think I would be a good fit for this job?” This will help you understand what skills or experience are important to them and improve your chances of getting the job.
Are you starting a building project and need to find the right general contractor to make it happen? Picking the right person is very important for a smooth and successful experience. To help you get through the interview process, we’ve put together a full list of the best general contractor interview questions, along with expert advice on how to look at their answers.
Get ready to find the perfect partner to build your dream project!
Hard Skills: Assessing Technical Knowledge and Abilities
- Are you licensed to work in this location?
Why this matters: Licensing ensures that the contractor adheres to local regulations and standards, minimizing risks and ensuring project quality.
What to listen for: proof that the license is still valid and in good standing; knowledge of the rules and laws in the area
- Have you worked on a project comparable to ours? What were the biggest challenges?
Why this matters Experience is key! A contractor who has tackled similar projects will bring valuable knowledge and skills to the table
What to listen for: specific examples of similar projects, the ability to solve problems, and an honest assessment of the difficulties your project will face.
- Do you have general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance (or the regional equivalent)? Do you offer a warranty?
Why this matters: Insurance protects you from financial losses in case of accidents or damages. A warranty demonstrates the contractor’s confidence in their work.
What to listen for Detailed warranty in writing, proof of active insurance policies, and coverage amounts.
Behavioral Intelligence: Uncovering Past Actions and Insights
- How do you approach safety while on the job?
Why this matters: Safety is paramount on any construction site. A strong safety culture minimizes accidents and ensures a healthy work environment.
What to listen for Understanding of safety precautions, respect for safety protocols, and examples of how they implement safety measures.
- What’s an example of a mistake you’ve made on a project? How did you make it right?
Why this matters: Mistakes happen, but how a contractor handles them reveals their integrity and problem-solving skills.
What to listen for Specific examples emphasis on client satisfaction after rectifying mistakes, and the ability to admit to mistakes without deflection.
- What’s your collaboration style? How do you work with others?
Why this matters: Construction projects involve teamwork. A collaborative contractor who can effectively manage and communicate with different professionals is essential.
What to listen for: Recommendations from other professionals, a friendly and positive attitude towards teamwork, and examples of successful collaboration.
Soft Skills: Evaluating Personal Traits and Cognitive Abilities
- How do you prioritize your tasks when you have multiple deadlines to meet?
Why this matters: Effective time management ensures project completion within deadlines and budget.
What to listen for: Strong organizational skills, a balanced approach to managing multiple projects, and a clear explanation of their prioritization process.
- How do you reach out and communicate with clients? What methods of communication do you use?
Why this matters: Clear and consistent communication is vital for a smooth client experience.
What to listen for: Preferred communication methods (phone, email, etc.), specific times of availability, and a proactive approach to client communication, even when delivering challenging news.
- How do you stay up to date with new trends or innovations in the industry?
Why this matters: The construction industry is constantly evolving. A contractor who embraces new technologies and trends ensures your project benefits from the latest advancements.
What to listen for: Awareness of current trends and new technologies, a willingness to adopt proven innovations, and a commitment to continuous learning.
By asking these insightful questions and carefully analyzing the answers, you’ll gain valuable insights into a general contractor’s qualifications, experience, and approach. This will empower you to make an informed decision and choose the right partner to build your dream project with confidence.
Remember, the right general contractor can make all the difference!
Construction Interview Questions with Answer Examples
What questions do interviewers ask a contractor?
An interviewer may ask you questions about your experience as a contractor to understand what responsibilities you’ve had in previous contracting projects. This may include questions about licensing, leadership experience and other skills or qualifications you may bring to a project to ensure success.
What questions do you ask during a construction job interview?
– **What construction equipment do you have experience with?** Gauge familiarity with common tools and machinery used in construction . – **Which parts of your previous job did you enjoy
What questions do construction laborers ask?
Construction laborers are professionals who perform physical labor on construction sites. When interviewing for a construction laborer position, interviewers may ask questions to confirm that you have the qualifications necessary for the job. These questions can focus on experience, workplace mindset and relevant responsibilities and skills.
What should you include in a construction interview?
As most construction jobs involve working with specialized equipment and procedures, you might showcase your experiences that can inform your work in construction during your interview. You can also use an interview to showcase your personality and offer insights about why you think you can succeed in the position you’re applying for.
