33 Construction Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Construction interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. At Company ABC we have a variety of career opportunities. Do you prefer to work on-site or in an office environment?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know more about your flexibility when it comes to your work environment. The best answer you can give will reflect your willingness to do what it takes on any given day. Of course, you are allowed to express a preference. Just be sure to avoid closing a door one way or the other.
1st Answer Example
"The majority of my experience has been more hands on and working on-site. With that said, I am happy to work in any capacity required of me. I do bring office related experience as well and am comfortable in either work environment."
2nd Answer Example
"I am much more comfortable in an office environment; however, I am open to learning more about on-site work. I am up for any challenge that comes my way, and I love to learn new skills. Where do you see the best fit for me at Company ABC?"
2. At Company ABC we employ a large variety of personalities in trade and office based roles. Do you have experience managing a variety of personalities?
How to Answer
In the construction industry you will come across a large range of personalities. Assure the interviewer that you are able to be comfortable in any type of work related exchange with a variety of communication styles.
1st Answer Example
"The majority of my experience comes from managing more blue-collar individuals from the trades. I do have experience communicating with white-collar office based individuals such as engineers and architectural planners. My personality allows for me to communicate well with most individuals, no matter their role or personality."
2nd Answer Example
"I have worked as a manager for salaried, hourly, and even union employees. My experience is diverse and I enjoy working with a multitude of personality types. Everyone is unique and that is part of what makes life so interesting!"
3. Our construction projects at Company ABC vary greatly in terms of size and budget. Tell me about the range of projects you have worked on.
How to Answer
Take a few minutes to walk the interviewer through your variety of experience. If you have a large range of projects in your portfolio, it is probably easiest to speak briefly about the largest project and smallest project you have worked on recently. Try to use examples from your most recent employer.
1st Answer Example
"I have experience working on a large variety of projects. This year my smallest project has been a $450K single family home and the largest, a $20MM multi-residential condo development. I am comfortable working on either large or small budget projects. Each project, no matter the budget, brings their own challenges."
2nd Answer Example
"As I am newer to project management, I have not had the opportunity to work on many large-scale projects. At this point in my career the projects I've worked on range from $50K to $600K. Regardless of the project or budget size, I believe in caring for each client the same. Every project deserves impeccable attention to detail."
4. We have a few strong competitors at Company ABC. In your opinion, what makes us stand out from the others?
How to Answer
Before your interview it is very important that you research Company ABC as well as their competitive landscape. Perhaps they stand out by providing a different level of quality, great customer service, or strong vendor relationships. Briefly discuss the ways that you feel Company ABC stands above the rest.
1st Answer Example
"I have done a lot of research on Company ABC as well as your competitive landscape and found that you stand out from the crowd in a variety of ways. Your customer and employee reviews are the highest in the local construction industry and it appears that Company ABC puts a great deal of focus on quality over speed. I would be honored to work for a company with such strong expectations and values."
2nd Answer Example
"I believe that Company ABC holds a longer tradition of quality work than any of its competitors. You have a great reputation for delivering above-average work."
5. At Company ABC we strive to be the best in our industry. In your opinion, what could we be doing better?
How to Answer
If you are going to give the interviewer feedback on what Company ABC could be doing better, it's best that you choose a topic a bit on the lighter side rather than a critical business component. The heavier types of opinions should be reserved for those who have worked with Company ABC for a significant amount of time.
1st Answer Example
"My experience with Company ABC has been very positive so far. If I could suggest any area for improvement, I would mention that the online application process through your website could be more mobile friendly. With so many people working from their smart phones today, it's always a great idea to simplify your mobile user interface."
2nd Answer Example
"That is a tough question for sure! If I had to think of a suggestion on the spot, I would suggest a stronger social media presence. A lot of construction and project management companies post on Instagram, showcasing their unique designs and attracting new customers."
6. We offer many opportunities for growth with Company ABC. How would you like to see your career grow with us?
How to Answer
It's a great idea to visit Company ABC website before your interview and review all the opportunities available with them. Are there opportunities open for corporate level roles? International positions? Leadership roles? Talk to the interviewer about your findings and express your desires for growth within their organization.
1st Answer Example
"I noticed that you have many opportunities for leadership within a variety of departments. My primary goal is to gain a management role with Company ABC in the future. I would be thrilled to grow my career with this company."
2nd Answer Example
"Growing with Company ABC is exactly the type of opportunity that I am looking for. If I could carve a career as a skilled project manager, that would be an ideal situation for me. I am willing to do what it takes to get there; including continued education and training."
7. We always have multiple projects on the go at Company ABC. Are you accustomed to working on multiple projects at one time?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to be assured that you are capable of multi-tasking. Talk about your most recent experience when it comes to working on different projects at one time. If you do not have experience working on multiple projects at a time then you can draw on other multi-tasking experiences. Perhaps this comes from your post-secondary experience or your personal life.
1st Answer Example
"Multi-tasking is my middle name! I work on up to 6 construction projects at a time in my current role. I am accustomed to balancing a great deal of tasks with multiple clients."
2nd Answer Example
"In my current position I am required to focus on one large project at a time. With that said, I do work with multiple departments and decision makers on each project. This experience has helped me to develop great multi-tasking skills."
8. At Company ABC we work on a range of projects. When it comes to the construction industry, do you prefer working on commercial or residential projects?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know more about your flexibility when it comes to the type of projects that you work on. The best answer you can give will reflect your willingness to do what it takes on any given day. Of course, you are allowed to express a preference. Just be sure to avoid closing a door one way or the other.
1st Answer Example
"The majority of my experience has been on commercial related construction projects. With that said, I am happy to work on any project given to me. I do bring residential related experience as well and am comfortable in either work environment."
2nd Answer Example
"For the most part, I have worked on residential construction projects. I have a small amount of exposure to commercial projects and have really enjoyed those as well. I look forward to the variety with Company ABC."
9. At Company ABC we seek to hire those with a wide range of skills and talents. What are your top 3 strengths.
How to Answer
It may be tough to brag about yourself but this is the perfect time to do just that! Think of work related compliments you have received in the past. Do you receive consistent positive feedback on particular skills? Draw on those strengths when you discuss the ways you will make a big impact on Company ABC, if hired.
1st Answer Example
"From the feedback that I have received in the past I believe that my biggest strengths include my strong communication skills, my ability to receive constructive feedback, and the flexibility I offer in my schedule. These 3 skills make me a competitive candidate for Company ABC because I can adapt well in most situations and make the best of every challenge given to me."
2nd Answer Example
Here are some soft skills that employers look for:
- Confidence
- Willingness to adapt
- Ability to work in a team
- Willingness to accept feedback
- Integrity / Honesty
For hard skills:
- Technically Savvy
- Relevant Software Experience
- Exposure to the correct tools and machinery used on the job
- Clean driving record
10. Safety comes first at Company ABC. Tell me about your safety related training and your safety record in your current position.
How to Answer
It is important to Company ABC that they hire people who are as safety conscious as they are. Whether you have formal safety related education or on-the-job training you should be prepared to talk to the interviewer about your safety record. If you have particular tickets or certifications it's a great idea to bring those with you to the interview.
1st Answer Example
"I have a lot of on-the-job safety training from the past 5 years in the construction industry. I have current certifications in Fall Arrest, Heights Safety, Electrical Safety and Fire Protection in the Workplace. If you would like a copy of these certifications I did bring them with me. I am very open to additional training opportunities. Are there any other safety related courses you would like for me to have?"
2nd Answer Example
"Because I am new to this industry, I have not received any formal safety training. I am happy to get a head start on these if you care to share with me the certifications and training required before I start with Company ABC."
11. Construction can be stressful. How do you deal with stressful situations in the workplace?
How to Answer
Ah, the challenge of stress management! Your ability to manage stress will directly influence your ability to do your job successfully. Before answering this question, think of some ways you have learned to deal with stress at work. You can't always take a break when you need it, so what will you do?
Some workplace stress management strategies are:
- Track your primary stress factors and make a plan for overcoming those
- Establish boundaries with distracting coworkers
- Breathing exercises, or meditation
- Be sure to recharge your emotional batteries throughout the day
- Express your stress to your manager/supervisor
- Ask for help
1st Answer Example
"I've learned some helpful breathing techniques that I can do while I'm at work. Even when I'm feeling rushed or overwhelmed by a situation, I am able to slow down my breathing and remain calm. Once I understood that it was okay for me to take a minute for myself, I learned to handle workplace stressors in a whole new way."
2nd Answer Example
"I do well under pressure or stress. I do need to balance myself and keep my workload sustainable. I know myself and my triggers pretty well, so when I am feeling like there's too much on my plate, I am okay with delegating or asking for help."
12. Company ABC is looking for a team member with flexible work hours. Are you able and willing to work overtime as needed?
How to Answer
Before answering scheduling questions, it's important to be clear on the interviewer's expectations. If you haven't had a chance to clarify their scheduling needs, now would be the perfect time to ask!
Consider asking, 'What are the scheduling expectations for this position?' If they expect you to work 12 hour days, it would be important for you to know that before you respond with, 'Absolutely! No problem!' You want to be sure that you can meet their expectations.
If it turns out their schedule expectations won't work for you, think about what you CAN offer and see if you can meet in the middle. It's much better to discuss these things in an interview than for you to commit to a schedule that won't work for you.
1st Answer Example
"I am available for full time work which is preferably 8-5 Monday to Friday. I am happy to be a team player and work some overtime, as required. Will these hours meet your expectations?"
2nd Answer Example
If you have limitations to your schedule: "My ideal work hours are Monday through Friday, 9AM to 5PM however, I am available to work additional hours with some notice."
13. What role do you generally like to take in team projects?
How to Answer
The interviewer truly wants to understand the role that you naturally take on, when put into a team based environment. If you tend to take the lead, let the interviewer know this, but avoid sounding overbearing. If you usually like to generate new ideas and allow someone else to execute them, share your creative side but express that you prefer for others to take the lead.
1st Answer Example
"I am usually the 'ideas person' in team projects. In my current position, I am not the strongest sales person, but I am highly creative. This means that, in most projects, I am great at creating a plan of action but am most comfortable passing the final client-facing tasks to our more extroverted personnel."
2nd Answer Example
"When it comes to team projects I do not mind taking a backseat and, rather than being the leader, being more of an administrator. I like to organize data and analyze progress rather than lead others."
14. Are you applying for any other jobs?
How to Answer
It always puts a little bit of fire under the hiring manager if they are aware that you are actively looking for a new position. Tell the interviewer about your search so far but be aware of not disclosing too much information. T
1st Answer Example
"I am keeping an eye out for viable positions. Although I am not in final stages with any other company, I am actively seeking a new position."
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I am applying for other related roles; however, will be choosy when it comes to my final decision. I want my next opportunity to be a long term fit."
15. What decisions did you routinely make in your last position?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know more about the types of decisions you are accustomed to making in the workplace. The way you answer this questions will give them a good idea of your level of experience, seniority, and ability to handle the decision making requirements in this potential position.
If the job you are interviewing for requires you to be decisive and quick on your feet, you will need to be able to provide examples of how you have done these things in the past. If you worked in tech support, you were faced with problems that you needed to find solutions for on a regular basis. If you worked as a sales rep, you may have needed to know how to negotiate and make decisions on prices and benefits you can give your customers.
You may have been faced with decisions that became so routine you didn't think twice! Refer to these types of decisions and be sure to highlight how these types of decisions have prepared you for a role like this one.
1st Answer Example
"In my previous position I was quite often required to make decisions on staff scheduling as well as hiring and terminating. I feel that role prepared me quite well for a position like this one. I have well-honed decision making skills and my intuition, when it comes to hiring, has been elevated."
2nd Answer Example
"I regularly made decisions regarding pricing and discounts for customers. I had a standard set of criteria that I created, and I let that guide me for consistency."
16. What is your current salary?
How to Answer
A potential employer will often base their offer on your current salary. You should be transparent about your most recent earnings and be prepared to back up any salary requests.
1st Answer Example
"I am currently earning a base salary of $78,000 plus a car allowance of $900/month and health benefits. I am looking for a competitive salary in my next position."
2nd Answer Example
"I am currently making $100,000 per year with two bonus opportunities. I am looking for compensation that is aligned with the role and provides opportunity for growth."
17. Tell me about a recurring problem that you run into in your current position, and how you handle it.
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to see that, despite this recurring problem, you take action to find a resolution. They want to make sure they aren't hiring a chronic complainer who is easily defeated!
Be careful to avoid complaining about your current (or most recent) position. A recurring problem could be a glitchy software system, an employee who is constantly late, or even an unpredictable work schedule. Whatever this recurring issue is, remain optimistic in your reply!
1st Answer Example
"A recurring problem that I have in my current position is the fact that our client management software is not user friendly. Any entry that I need to make is incredibly time consuming which poses a real problem when a deadline is present, or when we have clients waiting for an answer. I have found that the best workaround for this is to not allow my paperwork to build up. The more proactive I am, the better I can keep ahead of schedule."
2nd Answer Example
"The greatest issue in my current position is that we have so much employee turnover. It started to feel like I was constantly training new staff. I came up with an employee referral bonus program which greatly helped. For every successful referral, our employees get $400 plus another $400 after their referral stays for 3 months. I believe this has been successful because the quality of our employees has greatly increased."
18. Tell me one thing about yourself that you would like to improve upon.
How to Answer
Self-improvement is required by everyone, no matter what stage we are in, in life and career. Talk to the interviewer about something that you would improve about yourself and what you are planning to do to achieve that.
1st Answer Example
"I would like to improve upon my computer skills. I am currently at an intermediate level with Microsoft Office Suite but would like to advance. I have enrolled in a class this Fall which should help me to reach that goal."
2nd Answer Example
"For the past 6 months I have been working on improving my communication skills when it comes to providing my team with feedback. I found that I could be a little bit more brief and to the point. After taking a course in team communication, I feel that I have improved significantly but there are always more areas for improvement when it comes to communication."
19. What type of goals do you like to set for yourself and your team?
How to Answer
What types of goals are you most keen on setting for your employees? Talk to the interviewer about the types of goals that you find most important.
1st Answer Example
"I put my team's goals into three categories. Financial goals, client acquisition goals, and personal growth goals. Financial goals focus on their monetary sales targets for the quarter. Client acquisition goals are the amount of new client relationships that they bring in. And personal growth goals focus on their own professional development. This can include taking a course or reading a new career related book."
2nd Answer Example
"I tend to set high goals for myself and my team and then work hard/smart to achieve them. I look at the business needs and align the department goals to reach them. Then, I take into consideration the individual goals of our team members to account for them in our progressive work."
20. Do you believe you are a leader? When have you led a team?
How to Answer
Perhaps you have led a club at work, been a coach for a youth sports team, or were on the advisory board for a non-profit organization. You should always be prepared to show the interviewer that you have a natural ability to lead others. Whether you have led a group of 500, or a team of 2, you must display to the interviewer that you are capable of handling the responsibility that comes with being a leader and mentor.
Talk about your desire to be a leader. Share with the interviewer that you strive to be a role model for others. Explain that you jump at the opportunity to lead groups, encourage your counterparts, and be a face of the organization when challenges arise.
1st Answer Example
"In my current position, I am the president of the social committee. I love that I have the opportunity to encourage employee engagement while being a positive influence on the workplace culture. I am a natural leader because I start with leading by example. As a leader, I make myself available to others who need mentor-ship, a bit of assistance in adjusting to their role, or just a listening ear when they've had a tough day. I am confident in my leadership abilities and look forward to joining your team in a leadership role."
2nd Answer Example
"I definitely see myself as a leader. Not only have I managed a team in two prior roles, but also I believe that leadership does not always equate to management. I am sure to lead at all times by providing the best model of enthusiasm, and work-ethic."
21. What attracts you the most to this particular position?
How to Answer
The perfect fit needs to go both ways. Assure the interviewer that you see this role as a strong fit for you and discuss the reasons why. Be specific.
1st Answer Example
"What attracts me most to this position is the fact that your organization puts so much effort into professional development for your employees. It's really impressive to me."
2nd Answer Example
"The skills listed in your job description are the exact skills that I am looking to utilize in my next position. I am most excited about A, B, and C. These are my strongest points."
22. Do you think honesty is always the best policy?
How to Answer
Is honesty always the best policy? Talk to the interviewer about your thoughts on honesty in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"Sometimes full disclosure can damage someone's self esteem, and reality isn't always best expressed in full and can be self-indulgent based on the person's intention. In those instances, honesty isn't always the best policy."
2nd Answer Example
"Honesty is always the best policy. Often times, it is just a matter of how you communicate and deliver your message so managing this with each situation is critical to building honest and trustworthy relationships."
23. Company ABC is asking for 8 years of industry experience and you have just 5. Why do you think you are qualified for this position?
How to Answer
To many employers, the number of years' experience is flexible - so long as you have the results to show for the years that you do have. Talk to the interviewer about your major career successes. This is the time to sell yourself. Make no apologies for your lack of years!
1st Answer Example
"Although I have 5 years' experience vs 8 years' experience I can absolutely do this job well. In my previous role, I was outperforming colleagues who had 12 years of experience. To me, it's all about drive and ability to be a quick study. I have all of these qualities and more."
2nd Answer Example
"Along with my 5 years working in this industry, I have worked near it my entire career, and I hope that my graduate degree gives me a little boost in experience over the required undergraduate degree."
24. We believe in goal setting, here at Company ABC. Tell me about one of your goals. How are you working towards it?
How to Answer
If the interviewer asks you any general questions about goals, try to focus your answer on something career-oriented. The job you're interviewing for could help you achieve your goal by teaching you new skills and giving you valuable experience. Demonstrate that you are proactive and willing to take action in order to reach your goals.
1st Answer Example
"I have a goal of soon completing my journeyman certification. The more experience I can get in the field, with a reputable company like Company ABC, the closer I am getting to achieving my goal."
2nd Answer Example
"My primary goal is to find a role with a company where I can grow into a leadership position. I'd like to do this by continuing my education and taking additional coursework in management and business leadership."
25. When have you had to be extra thorough in completing tasks?
How to Answer
Some tasks will require a keener eye and additional diligence. Discuss a time when you were extra thorough during a work-related task.
1st Answer Example
"I have to be extra thorough from time to time when I have clients that are especially detail oriented. Often this will mean spending additional time on calls with them to highlight project changes. I am absolutely okay with being extra thorough when needed."
2nd Answer Example
"I have to be extra thorough once every quarter when we complete our inventory counts. It takes a lot of concentration and attention to detail."
26. When have you taken an existing process and used your own creativity to make it better?
How to Answer
Are you given the creative freedom to improve existing processes? Talk to the interviewer about your ability to take an existing process and improve it in a creative way.
1st Answer Example
"Last month my supervisor asked me to take our existing sales training package and improve it. My goal was to make the system more engaging for new recruits. Once we implemented my ideas, we increased our new trainee retention rate by 16%. I was quite proud of what my creativity could do!"
2nd Answer Example
"I do not go into a position looking to make changes for the sake of change, but I do monitor processes and look for ways to improve efficiency and/or reduce costs."
27. What feedback did you receive at your last job?
How to Answer
Every manager has a different approach to giving feedback. Some prefer to save it for the performance review while others dish it out on the regular. Your response to feedback is much more important than the feedback itself. Even if it was negative, if you can take it as constructive criticism, you can improve yourself and your skills.
1st Answer Example
"My manager told me that I was spending too much time on the details of a project. I realized that I can be such a perfectionist that I lose track of time and hyper-focus on things that just aren't that important. I'm learning to prioritize the steps I need to take and the tasks that need to be completed when working on a bigger project."
2nd Answer Example
"My employee reviews were always very positive because I try my best to do my job well at all times. I am on top of processes and will work overtime to make my clients happy. I am thankful to have worked for a manager who openly acknowledged my efforts."
28. It seems that your resume is missing certain skills that are necessary for this position. How do you plan to compensate for these missing skills?
How to Answer
Most job descriptions will have a long list of requirements. Hiring managers are aware that, to find a candidate that checks ALL of the boxes, can sometimes be impossible. If you are missing some of the "nice to have" or even the "must have" skills listed on the job description, do not fret! Be open about your shortcomings and discuss with the interviewer how you plan to compensate for those.
1st Answer Example
"nice to have"
2nd Answer Example
"Could you share with me which skills you feel I am missing? Perhaps I could then elaborate on my experience or transferable skills."
29. Tell me about an error or mistake you made because of a breakdown in communication from you or one of your team members.
How to Answer
On occasion, mistakes will happen and communication will be broken. Talk to the interviewer about a time that this occurred in the workplace. How did you resolve the situation?
1st Answer Example
"I recall one instance where I misread an email from one of my subordinates. The punctuation was incorrect and I read it in in a dire tone rather than in a positive one, as it was intended. After a tense conversation, the employee clarified her intention and it seems I was mistaken. She and I agreed to exercise verbal communication on a regular basis to avoid a similar situation from happening again."
2nd Answer Example
"We recently had a missing link in communications to one of our vendors, who we signed on to provide a large service. They were not aware of a change in the agreement which cost the company wasted time, resources and money. We were able to identify the breakdown in communication and change the process to ensure it does not happen again."
30. Why do you want this job with Company ABC?
How to Answer
Recruiters and hiring managers often receive hundreds of applications per job. If you are lucky enough to land an interview, make some effort and conduct research on the opportunity. Think about how this job will help you in your career. It's important for you to know not only what you have to offer them, but what they can do for you.
While your passion and excitement about the job are important, it's always good to have some hard facts to back it up. For instance, saying 'I have heard great things about your company and I know I would be a great fit for this job', is not very specific.
1st Answer Example
"I am excited about this opportunity because your values are very much in line with mine. I deeply care about giving back to the community. I also feel like this job will help me reach my goal of working in a management position, because of the leadership opportunities within this role."
2nd Answer Example
"I am beyond excited for this opportunity and to finally work for Company ABC. For some time now, I have looked at your company as the leading star in the construction industry. I know that this position will give me the extra education, training, and experience that I need in order to be successful in my career."
31. Where do you see yourself 5 years from now?
How to Answer
Interviewing and on-boarding is a costly and time consuming process for any company and hiring manager. Assure the interviewer that you are seeking a long term fit with your next employer.
Take a look at the career growth options with the company. If any of these stand out to you, it's a great idea to specifically mention them to the interviewer. Your expressed interest in those particular internal opportunities will solidify the fact that you are, indeed, seeking a long term fit with them.
1st Answer Example
"I am looking for a long-term fit in my next position. As you can see, I had strong progress and career growth in my previous company. I would love to see the same success with your company. I did notice on your website that you have global leadership opportunities. If I could work my way into a role like that, I would be thrilled."
2nd Answer Example
"Five years from now I want to be managing my own team. I feel that my progression within this industry is in line to obtain this goal."
32. Do you consider yourself a patient person? How do you increase your patience level in challenging situations?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if you consider yourself a patient individual. Impatience can cause a lot of stress and anxiety in coworkers so it is really important that you are able to showcase your ability to remain patient and professional in workplace situations.
Patience is certainly a virtue, but can be difficult to maintain when it seems that situations continue to push your buttons. Show the interviewer that you posses the ability to keep your cool in challenging situations.
1st Answer Example
"I do consider myself a patient person. I would rate myself an 8 /10 for patience because I certainly have room to grow but I do have a very long fuse. If I need a boost of patience in a challenging situation I will take a step away, count to 10 and then return to the situation. I recently read a book, 'The Power of Patience' by M.J. Ryan which also gave me some great new methods for coping under stress."
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I consider myself to be fairly patient with others. I tend to be impatient with myself if I am not finishing a project as fast as I think I should be. But, I am learning to be patient with myself as well. I find that breathing exercises, and closing my eyes for a few seconds can help me regroup."
33. Which parts of your current position bring you the most stress?
How to Answer
Stress can often be a regular part of the day to day work experience. Talk to the interviewer about which areas of your career are the most stressful. Ensure that your answer does not include a factor that would make you appear unfit for the position. (IE: a bus driver should not find driving to be the most stressful part of the job).
1st Answer Example
"The part of my career that brings me the most stress is when the schedule is running behind due to lack of hustle on my teams part. I really like to be on time with my schedule to ensure that my clients are assisted properly."
2nd Answer Example
"I probably bring myself the most stress because of my drive and desire to be/do the best I can be. I manage this by focusing my energy on productive activities that are good for my career."