With the ongoing changes in the construction industry, how do you keep your knowledge current?
Employers expect employees to stay up-to-date on their respective fields, and today's technology makes this reasonably easy! The interviewer asks this question to determine if you are proactive and dedicated to continuous improvement in your field. If you do not stay current with changes in the industry, it shows that you may be unmotivated to grow professionally.
"Every morning, I listen to (X podcast) because I find the information fresh and valuable. In addition to this podcast, I also subscribe to a couple of industry blogs. One is ABC, and the other is XYZ. I greatly value the information shared among fellow professionals. What resources do you prefer to stay on top of industry trends and changes?"
"My university professor made some great recommendations recently, including keeping on top of the local changes through our city and state's websites related to building inspections and construction. I have done this and set up a Google alert for related keywords. Do you have any additional recommendations for me?"
"The construction industry changes quite frequently, and I understand the importance of keeping up to date. Our city has an official building inspections website that keeps me updated on new legislation and laws. I am also a part of the North Carolina Builders' Association which keeps me accountable for ongoing education opportunities."
Focus on listing several ways to receive your industry knowledge and stay on top of trends. Tell the interviewer about those daily email updates you receive from professional organizations, conferences you attend, seminars you have taken, and professional organizations you are a part of.
Lastly, it's a great idea to ask the interviewer what resources they refer to for industry trends. That question can start a great conversation, and you may learn a thing or two.
Avoid saying you do not stay current on the changes in the industry. If you do not attempt to keep your knowledge current, the interviewer will determine that you lack the motivation they are looking for in a building inspector. It is best to have at least a couple of resources you use to stay current on trends in the construction industry.
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
I plan on continuing with my ICC education as I can. I have set up google alerts so that when building codes are mentioned, I get an email, and I will be subscribing to websites that have to do with building inspection education and news.
Rachelle's Feedback
Google alerts are a very helpful way to stay up to date on industry changes - smart approach! I recommend adding in the names of a couple of websites that you lean on. The more detail you can provide, the better :)
Anonymous Answer
I know the International Code Council has webinars, seminars and other means of staying on top of things. I also plan on taking more college classes.
Rachelle's Feedback
Good start! The more detail you provide, the more compelling your answer will be. Which seminars and webinars are of interest to you? Which college classes would you consider attending?
Unlock all 30 Building Inspector questions
Unlock expert responses for municipal and private sector building inspection interviews.
Get Started