1.

Working in a trades environment, you will have exposure to a broad range of people, cultures, lifestyles, and backgrounds. The interviewer would like to know that you are accustomed to working with a broad range of people. Assure the interviewer that you can handle an environment that offers diversity.





Rachelle's Answer #1

"I would say that pretty much every company I have worked for has valued diversity. Working with people from all walks of life help shed different perspectives and identify potential problems faster."



Rachelle's Answer #2

"In trades and construction, diversity is everywhere, and I love it! I have always worked in diverse environments, and I am thankful for that."

2.

The interviewer would like to know if you have a preference when it comes to the type of jobs you will be taking on, as an electrician apprentice. Whether you work residential or commercial jobs, there will be pros and cons to each. For instance, an industrial or commercial electrician will run three-wire systems to help with more massive needs related to commercial builds. Residential electricians may require more finesse in their work, as the wires are cleanly put away and hidden. Discuss your preference.





Rachelle's Answer #1

"I am leaning towards working in a residential environment, as I prefer the type of detailed work that would be required when working in someone's home, or helping with a new build. With that said, I am happy to learn all sides of the electrical trade."



Rachelle's Answer #2

"Commercial or industrial work is of bigger interest to me at this time as I have a keen interest in instrumentation and control circuitry, and the complexity of those topics."

3.

The interviewer wants to know more about the specific systems in which you have practice. Answer this by briefly describing the electrical systems with which you have worked. You can also add your level of comfortability in each type of system. If the interviewer would like more detail on a specific project, they will ask.





Rachelle's Answer #1

"Since beginning my education and apprenticeship I have spent the most time working on reading and interpreting electrical, mechanical and architectural drawings. I have spent the most time learning industrial electrical work; however, I am comfortable with residential aspects as well. Would you like some specifics examples of where I've used these electrical systems?"



Rachelle's Answer #2

"In my current role, I work on minor residential related electrical issues such as the install, altering, repair, and maintenance of electrical systems."

Anonymous Answer
"As my daily job, I work on minor projects of residential electric. Once I had the chance to manage a few projects on an electric grid in my home town. My participation was on the project management side."

Rachelle's Answer
I have reworded for clarity. Please see the revised answer below.
"In my current role, I work on minor residential related electrical issues. I have also spent some time working on electrical grids."
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4.

The interviewer would like to know more than just your safety knowledge. They also want to know what kind of importance you place on job safety. If possible, tell a personal story while answering this question, relating to the consequences of unsafe work.





Rachelle's Answer #1

"When I first began as an apprentice, I was witness to an accident on the job. My colleague was in a rush and did not take the required steps to ensure his safety. He was injured quite severely, and it was an eye-opening experience. Since then, I always ensure that I have taken all of the appropriate steps and that my tools are proper insulated tools."



Rachelle's Answer #2

"Safety always comes first. I believe we can eliminate 99% of accidents and damages if everyone abided by safety standards. From the minor accidents I have witnessed on the job, the majority of them stem from reckless decisions."

Anonymous Answer
"Safety is first. Safety standards and tools prevent 99 percent of any potential damage and loss."

Rachelle's Answer
I have reworded your answer slightly to help with clarity.
"Safety always comes first. I believe we can eliminate 99% of accidents and damages if everyone abided by safety standards."
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5.

The interviewer wants to know that you can confidently relay the differences between common electrical equipment and solutions. Your response should be factual and to the point. You can create your favorite way of explaining the difference between a fuse and a circuit breaker. Be sure to memorize your answer so that you are clear, and do not stumble through it.





Rachelle's Answer #1

"The fuse works on the electrical and thermal properties of the conducting material, while a circuit breaker works on the electromechanical principles."



Rachelle's Answer #2

"Both fuses and breakers are protective devices. Fuses are quicker to interrupt power flow but are one-time use and need replacement. Circuit breakers simply need a reset."

Anonymous Answer
"Both are protective devices. A fuse is used one time, whereas a breaker is used multiple times."

Rachelle's Answer
Good! I have reworded your answer slightly to help with clarity.
"Both fuses and breakers are protective devices. Fuses are quicker to interrupt power flow but are one-time use and need replacement. Breakers simply need a reset."
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6.

The interviewer would like to know that you have a specific interest in the types of jobs their company takes on. When answering this question, it is best that you keep in mind what field the hiring company specializes in. Once you know, be sure to tie these specialties into your answer.





Rachelle's Answer #1

"I have always been most interested in commercial electrical work. My biggest interest is to work on construction sites, in commercial buildings, and on mechanical, electrical systems. I was prompted to apply to your company after seeing that you complete around 60% of the commercial builds in this city."



Rachelle's Answer #2

"I read the Google and Yelp reviews on your company's residential work, and everything sounded very positive. I have an interest in working on new residential construction projects, and know that is where your specialty is."

7.

In many states, it is now illegal for hiring authorities to ask about your current earnings. A question like this will give the interviewer a solid idea of what you are hoping to earn. The best way to discuss your salary expectations is to use your current earnings as an example if you are comfortable doing so. If this makes you uncomfortable, do give as many indicators as you can. Be open, and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary based questions arise. If you are newer to your career, or the area, and are unsure of what a fair ask may be, there are many reliable salary calculators available online.





Rachelle's Answer #1

"Currently, I earn a wage of $16 per hour, and I would like to earn slightly higher in my next position, as I have additional electrical certifications since my last wage negotiation took place."



Rachelle's Answer #2

"I would like to earn slightly above where I am now. Currently, I earn $15/hour plus overtime."

8.

The interviewer would like to know how you handle things when you need to call in sick. Do you email, text, or completely ghost on your employer? Be brief in your answer and reassure the interviewer that you are not the type to call in sick frequently. You can also ask them what their preferred method of communication is, should you fall ill.





Rachelle's Answer #1

"I have called in sick just a couple of days in the last year or so. My current employer prefers that I remain out of the office if contagious! Could you share with me your sick policy and preferences?"



Rachelle's Answer #2

"We run a pretty tight ship in my current job when it comes to scheduling. I know that a sick day can throw a lot of things off balance, for much of my team. I do not like calling in sick. Even if under the weather I will still go in and make it through as much of the day as possible."

9.

The interviewer would like to know how you react when it comes to setbacks on the job site. Everyone handles the stress and disappointment of setbacks differently. Discuss with the interviewer how you typically cope with project delays or unexpected issues.





Rachelle's Answer #1

"Experiencing a setback is always disappointing, and can be a bit disheartening, but I understand that it happens from time to time. If I experience a major setback, I will take a few moments to debrief with my site manager and discuss what I could have done differently. Then, I move on!"



Rachelle's Answer #2

"Setbacks can be trying, but I find that you have to learn how to lose before you learn how to win. While I never enjoy a setback, I use them as a stepping off point to something even better."

10.

The interviewer would like to know that you are well aware of the dangers associated with a career as an electrician. These work hazards are real, and it is essential that you address them, ensuring the interviewer that you treat the safety of yourself, and others, as a priority. Discuss what you know about the most significant safety concerns for electricians.





Rachelle's Answer #1

"From what I have learned through education and on the job training, the most significant risks to an electrician include fatal electrical shock, electrical burns, and fire. I plan to be fully trained in these matters, avoiding any accidents on the job."



Rachelle's Answer #2

"For myself, working in confined spaces, electrical shock, and fire hazards are the most concerning. I am a full supporter of the use of proper tools and PPE gear to avoid any serious incidences."

11.

It's always a great idea to have questions ready for the interviewer. Review the company website and other online resources to ensure the queries you have are not mundane, or redundant. The last thing an interviewer wants to hear is a list of items you could have found the answers for from merely reading their job description!

Here are some sample questions:

- When would you like to have this position filled?
- What is your favorite part about working here?
- Is there anything from my background and experience that I can clarify for you?
- What do you see as the most significant change in this industry over the past three years?
- Is there any reason why you would not hire me?





Rachelle's Answer #1

"Thank you for asking - I do have a few questions. What is top of mind when it comes to filling this role? Also, what types of career growth opportunities would follow this position?"



Rachelle's Answer #2

"I would like to ask if there is anything in my background on which you need clarification? Also, after discussing everything today, is there any particular reason why I would not be the best fit for this apprenticeship role?"

12.

The interviewer is looking for a solid example of your ability to handle criticism and implement the feedback appropriately. This question offers an excellent opportunity to showcase your ability to take constructive criticism and use it for professional growth.





Rachelle's Answer #1

"When I first began my apprenticeship, I was given feedback on my job site habits. My supervisor asked me to be more aware of where I was leaving my tools. I was newer to the career and would sometimes be so focused on the task at hand that I would become forgetful. The criticism he offered helped me to realize that I was a bit messy on the job site. I made sure to clean up after myself consistently after that."



Rachelle's Answer #2

"I handle criticism well and am sure to implement the feedback quickly. By doing this, I can ensure that I do not learn any bad habits, making me a better electrician."

Anonymous Answer
"I personally consider any criticism or opinion given to me; it can be taken and implemented into improving my skills and creating good habits as an electrician. I don't react negatively to criticism of my work; I would rather channel it into improving upon myself."

Rachelle's Answer
Very good! It's really important to a hiring authority that you can take feedback and implement it in a way that makes you better at your job.
"Any criticism or opinion given to me can be taken to improve my skills and create good habits as an electrician. I don't react negatively to criticism of my work. Rather, I channel it into self-improvement!"
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13.

The interviewer would like to know that you are aware of the safety requirements related to being an electrician apprentice. While answering this question, it is best to display that you are mindful of the importance of safety on the job, rather than merely reciting what you have learned in the classroom setting. If you do not have a personal example, you can use an example that you've heard recently from an industry colleague or even a news story.





Rachelle's Answer #1

"I believe that using equipment that's certified and well-built is one of the best ways to protect yourself on the job site. Having a supervisor and colleagues who are interested in the safety of others is also very important. I have heard about people on the job who lose their respect for the power of electricity which can be a very harmful attitude. Keeping that sense of respect is crucial."



Rachelle's Answer #2

"I protect myself by putting safety first. I use proper safety tools and protective gear as needed, to prevent accident, injury, and damages."

Anonymous Answer
"I think safety is first. I will accomplish that with the proper usage of safety tools and clothes to prevent any accidents and damages."

Rachelle's Answer
Good! I have reworded just slightly for impact.
"I protect myself by putting safety first. I use proper safety tools and protective gear as needed, to prevent accident, injury, and damages."
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Anonymous Answer
"It is important always to put safety first and refer to proper PPE and usage on tools equipment. I have heard many frightening stories from my grandfather, who was also an electrician that has taught me the importance of completing work with the safety of myself and others in mind."

Rachelle's Answer
Good answer! It's nice that you added in a bit about your grandfather, who seems to have taught you a lot about your trade! This addition will help the interviewer get to know you on a more personal level while still keeping the conversation work-related and on track."
"It is important to put safety first and refer to proper PPE and usage on tools and equipment. I have heard many frightening stories from my grandfather, who was also an electrician. He taught me the importance of completing work with the safety of myself and others in mind."
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14.

Show the interviewer that you have done your homework on their company. Comb through the company website, if they have one. Check Google reviews to see what makes the company successful and be sure to know the job description thoroughly. You can craft your answer based on that research.





Rachelle's Answer #1

"When I initially saw your job posting, I liked the tone of it. When I researched further, I saw that you have great client feedback and very positive reviews online. After reading the 'About Us' page on your website, I knew this was a company that I wanted to represent. You stand behind your work, take pride in what you do, and your customers are very loyal."



Rachelle's Answer #2

"I chose to apply here after surfing your website. Your company focuses on professional trades and customer respect. I look forward to becoming a part of your professional team."

Anonymous Answer
"I found your company by searching the internet and surfing your website. You always focus on professional trends and respect customers. I want to become a part of a pro team."

Rachelle's Answer
It's great that you showed your research. Nicely done!
"I chose to apply to {company} after surfing your website. Your company focuses on professional trends and respect of customers. I look forward to becoming a part of your professional team."
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15.

Interviewers want to hear about that one unique skill that sets you apart from the other candidates applying for this job. Think of your answer as your 'elevator pitch' or your qualifying statement. If you can't think of ways that you are unique, ask a few friends or family members what they feel sets you apart from other people. Their observations may help you understand how you are perceived.

Perhaps you already know what sets you apart! This skill could include any industry accolades, exceptional achievements, additional industry related training, a second language, or how involved you are in the community. Don't be afraid to brag about yourself a bit. In an interview, you are your most influential advocate.

Try completing your response with a question for the interviewer, regarding any objections they may have when it comes to hiring you. By asking this question, you can keep the conversation going and overcome any objections the interviewer may have before you leave the interview.





Rachelle's Answer #1

"I believe you should hire me because I bring the right blend of experience, I am familiar with the type of industrial projects that you work with, and I have top marks in my electrical courses. After meeting me and discussing my qualifications further, is there any particular reason why you would hesitate to hire me?"



Rachelle's Answer #2

"You should hire me because I'm qualified and passionate about this trade. I am excited about the idea of delivering value to your organization while learning more about electrical operational maintenance and repair. I will hustle for the opportunity to go above and beyond as an apprentice."

Anonymous Answer
"I am a reliable man. I am a good team player. Also, I want to be a member of a professional team."

Rachelle's Answer
It's great that you are reliable, and a good team player! If possible, pull from the job description or job posting and discuss the skills that you have, which match this role.
"You should hire me because I'm qualified and passionate about this trade. I am excited about the idea of delivering value to your organization while learning more about electrical operational maintenance and repair. I will hustle for the opportunity to go above and beyond as an apprentice."
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