The Top 10 Window Cleaner Interview Questions and How to Answer Them

Getting a job as a window cleaner can be competitive You’ll need to impress potential employers with your skills, experience and professionalism during the interview if you want to stand out from other applicants

Knowing some common window cleaner interview questions and how to best answer them can help you ace the interview and land the job Here are 10 of the most frequently asked questions for window cleaners and tips for responding

1. Why are you interested in working as a window cleaner?

When answering this question, focus on your passion for the profession and any relevant skills or experience you have For example

• “I enjoy detailed, meticulous work and take pride in leaving windows spotless. My previous experience as a car detailer required similar attention to detail. “.

• “I’m a very careful person who does well in jobs that need care and attention to detail.” Window cleaning aligns well with my personal strengths. “.

• “I appreciate the satisfaction of transforming dirty windows into clean, polished surfaces. I also enjoy the physicality of window cleaning and working outdoors. “.

2. What do you see as the biggest challenges of being a window cleaner?

Hiring managers want to see that you understand the realities of the job. Be honest about the difficulties, but also express your ability to handle them. You may say:

• “Working at heights on ladders or scaffolding can be challenging. However, I’m comfortable working high up and always prioritize safety by wearing proper gear and using appropriate harnesses and tie-offs.”

• “The job can be physically taxing at times. I’m prepared for that aspect and know how to work efficiently while also pacing myself.”

• “Weather unpredictability poses challenges. I’m accustomed to working outdoors in all conditions by dressing appropriately and taking necessary precautions.”

3. How do you ensure your own safety when cleaning exterior windows at height?

Window cleaning often involves working many stories above the ground. Hiring managers want reassurance that you are safety-focused. In your response, demonstrate knowledge of safety protocols. For instance:

• “I always inspect my equipment before use and wear appropriate gear like harnesses, gloves and sturdy shoes. I secure myself to anchor points when on ladders or scaffolding and work with a partner to spot me.”

• “I pay close attention to weather conditions and reschedule work if winds exceed safe limits. I also set up warning signs/cones on the ground below my work area to prevent dangers to pedestrians.”

• “I maintain three points of contact on ladders at all times. I never overextend my reach or attempt to clean windows I can’t safely access.”

4. How do you know when windows are clean enough?

This question tests your standards and attention to detail. In your answer, convey your meticulousness and quality standards. For example:

• “I clean windows until there are no visible streaks, spots or smudges. I use microfiber cloths and a high-quality squeegee to achieve crystal clear results. I also check my work both up close and from a distance.”

• “I clean the entire window surface thoroughly using overlapping circular motions until no dirt or debris remains. I make sure to get into the window tracks and edges. I know my work is complete when I see no haze and the glass sparkles.”

5. How do you prioritize cleaning windows when dealing with multiple buildings or large properties?

This question tests your organizational skills. Highlight your ability to develop an efficient system and workflow. For example:

• “I start by consulting with the client to understand which areas are higher priority. I then work out the order and a logical route to maximize efficiency. I may group windows by height or location to minimize equipment moves.”

• “I assess the windows to identify the dirtiest ones first. I tackle those early on when I have the most energy. I also try to work from top to bottom methodically around each building.”

• “I create a schedule and route map to keep myself organized and hitting cleaning benchmarks throughout the day. I continually reassess to adjust if needed.”

6. How do you handle dissatisfied or complaining customers when cleaning windows?

Hiring managers want to know your customer service skills. Share how you calmly and professionally address complaints. For example:

• “I listen closely to understand any concerns, without getting defensive. I then politely inspect their windows and offer to reclean any problem spots immediately. My goal is making sure customers are 100% satisfied.”

• “I apologize and ask clarifying questions to identify the cause of dissatisfaction. If it was my mistake, I take accountability and correct it. If not, I provide education on factors like weather that can impact results after I clean.”

• “I thank clients for their feedback and focus on turning the situation around. I offer complimentary touch-ups and make sure they’re pleased before I leave the site.”

7. What process do you follow to clean interior/exterior windows?

With this question, interviewers want to understand your process and technique. Walk through your standard cleaning method in detail. For example:

• “For exterior windows, I first use a long-reach pole to clear away any loose debris like leaves or dirt around the frames. I then apply cleaning solution and let it soak briefly before scrubbing with a brush using circular motions…”

• “On interior windows, I dry-dust the window and tracks with a microfiber cloth to remove surface dust. I fill a bucket with cleaning solution, soak my wash mitt and wash the glass methodically from side to side. After the wash, I dry the glass with a squeegee using overlapping strokes…”

• “I begin by taping around the edges of the window with painters tape to protect the frames. I use a blade scraper on exterior windows to remove any hardened debris. Next I spray cleaner and use a pole-mounted brush to wash the glass…”

8. How do you clean windows that are difficult to reach?

Since accessing windows high up is common in this profession, interviewers want to gauge your resourcefulness. Discuss specialty equipment and methods for hard-to-reach windows. For example:

• “For second story or higher windows, I use ladders or scaffolding safely secured to the building. I have telescoping poles that extend up to 18 feet for washing, as well as pole-mounted squeegees for drying top-floor windows.”

• “I have various ladders and window-cleaning belts to access awkward spots safely. I use articulating lift platforms to reach windows not accessible by ladders. I also have experience using controlled descent devices rappelling off rooftops when needed.”

• “For interior windows with limited access, I use smaller handheld squeegees and microfiber cloths attached to poles that extend 5-6 feet. I also have a toolkit of angled blades and specialty brushes to clean hard-to-reach window corners and edges.”

9. How do you handle emergency or dangerous situations that may arise when cleaning windows?

Window cleaners need to be able to deal with unexpected emergencies on the job. Share how you would respond safely and professionally. For example:

• “If my ladder or scaffolding became unstable for any reason, I would descend slowly and carefully to the ground immediately. I would then inspect the equipment to determine if it needs repair or replacement before resuming work.”

• “If I noticed a weather hazard like a severe storm approaching, I would stop work immediately and stow all my tools and equipment securely until it passed. Safety comes first for me.”

• “If I witnessed someone in danger on the ground below my work area, such as a child wandering into traffic, I would yell loudly to alert them while also seeking help from others on the ground. I would not leave my anchored safety position to intervene directly.”

10. Why should we hire you as a window cleaner?

Finally, be ready to explain why you’re an ideal candidate for the job. Share your strongest relevant skills and traits. For instance:

• “I have over 5 years of window cleaning experience using proper tools and techniques to deliver expert results safely and efficiently. I take great pride in my work and will represent your company well.”

• “You can rely on me to handle all cleaning tasks with the utmost safety, care and quality. I’m detail-oriented, conscientious about my work, and committed to fulfilling all client expectations.”

• “I’m physically fit, comfortable working at heights, and adept at maneuvering tight spaces to access windows. I’ll bring these strengths along with a stellar work ethic and positive attitude to this role every single day.”

Preparing responses and examples for questions like these will showcase your capabilities and readiness for a window cleaning position. With the right interview preparation, you can confidently answer these common questions and stand out from the competition when interviewing for window cleaner jobs.