35 Facility Manager Interview Questions & Answers
Table of Contents
- 1. Career Goals Questions
- 2. Communication Questions
- 3. Compatibility Questions
- 4. Competency Questions
- 5. Creative Thinking Questions
- 6. Customer Service Questions
- 7. Direct Questions
- 8. Diversity Questions
- 9. Experience Questions
- 10. Leadership Questions
- 11. Management Questions
- 12. Performance Based Questions
- 13. Problem Solving Questions
- 14. Scenario Based Questions
- 15. Stress Questions
- 16. Teamwork Questions
- 17. Trust Questions
Career Goals
1. Where do you see yourself five years from now?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know whether or not you have set any plans and, if so, what they are. Tell the interviewer about your career goals for the next five years. Be sure to include the company you are applying for in your goals to show the interviewer that you can be a long-term asset and that you are looking for stability. Some possible goals include a promotion to a management position within the company, pursuing education in facilities management, transitioning into other related areas, or improving your performance in the role you are interviewing for.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"Ideally, five years from now, I would love to see myself growing into a more prominent leadership role within your organization, such as a director-level position. My career interests align very nicely with your company's goals, so I believe I would be a great long-term fit for this company."
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"In five years from now, I would like to have grown within the same company I started with, having acquired skills enabling me to establish myself as an expert in my field."
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Communication
2. How would you rate your communication skills?
How to Answer
Both written and verbal communication skills are necessary to perform the duties of a Facilities Manager. The interviewer wants to know how well you communicate, whether that means emails, reports, or in person. Share your skill and confidence level in written and verbal communication. Also, if you have taken any courses in communication or writing, feel free to mention these to the interviewer. Talk to the interviewer about your skills and support your answer with a brief example or story.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I would describe my communication skills as very strong and would rate myself as a 9/10. I have always had a penchant for writing and have taken university courses related to communication, writing, and business administration. I speak to others with respect, professionalism, and kindness."
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"My written communication skills are powerful. I often utilize written communications as a follow-up to verbal communications. They provide a great resource for associates to go back to and reference, plus they might answer any questions that come up along the way."
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Community Answer
"8/10. I feel I have pretty strong communication skills. Also, I thank higher powers for spell and grammar checking almost every day."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Stephanie Cafaro Reviewed the Above Answer
An 8/10 for communication skills is pretty solid! Because communication skills can be both written and verbal, I suggest specifically naming both and providing an example of how you show strength in each area.
Compatibility
3. We have buildings in multiple locations throughout this district. Are you okay with travelling daily to and from various buildings?
How to Answer
This role may require some travel. The interviewer wants to know if you are willing to drive to different locations daily. Provide your response, and don't be afraid to mention any concerns you may have, such as distance, mileage, parking, etc.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I don't mind driving. Would gas and tolls be reimbursed for this travel?"
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I am very familiar with the area so driving will not be an issue for me."
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Community Answer
"I travel quite a bit for my current job, they reimburse gas and tolls, which is nice."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Stephanie Cafaro Reviewed the Above Answer
While it's great to hear that your current job has given you experience and comfort with traveling to multiple sites, I suggest adding a sentence that directly answers the question you've been asked, such as "If offered this role, I would be very comfortable with traveling daily to and from various buildings."
Compatibility
4. What personal traits do you look for in people you are hiring?
How to Answer
Everyone has a 'type,' even in the workplace. Talk to the interviewer about the characteristics and personality types of the people that you tend to hire and why you lean that way.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Competency
5. How do you stay up to date on the latest trends for facility management?
How to Answer
Staying on top of the latest trends is important in any role, including that of a facility manager. This can mean being aware of new software, rules and regulations, and even changing hiring trends. The interviewer wants to know how you stay up to date. Discuss how you receive your news. Some examples might include industry-related newsletters, conferences, websites, blogs, social media, or email subscriptions.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Competency
6. What would you consider to be a facility manager's most important responsibility?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to hear that you know the responsibilities of this role and your opinion about what is a priority. There is no right or wrong answer, so share your thoughts in a way that shows you are knowledgeable and can do the job.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Creative Thinking
7. When have you negotiated with a contractor?
How to Answer
As a Facility Manager, you will work extensively with contractors. The interviewer wants to know if you have experience negotiating with them. This can be for services or products, so share any related experience you may have.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Customer Service
8. How would you describe your relationship with your customers?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know how you value your client and customer relationships. Share how you nurture them to ensure that they are happy and continue to come back. Talk to the interviewer about your strategy for building strong customer and client relationships.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Direct
9. Why should we hire you?
How to Answer
This question is often a challenge for individuals who are unsure or can't articulate how they can benefit the company. If you can't think of ways that you are unique, ask a few coworkers what sets you apart from others. Their observations may help you understand how you are perceived. It is also a good idea to think about the highlights of previous job performance reviews. If a supervisor praised you in a particular area, or you received recognition for making a significant impact on a project, feel free to mention this in your response if it relates to the job you are interviewing for.
Perhaps you already know what sets you apart! Your answer could include any industry accolades, exceptional achievements, additional industry-related training, a second language, or your involvement in the community. Don't be afraid to brag about yourself a bit. In an interview, you are your most influential advocate.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Direct
10. What do you know about our organization?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know that you've taken some time to learn about the company. This not only shows your interest level but can also determine whether or not you are a good fit for the organization. When interviewing for a position, it is important to ensure the organization is a good fit for you.
Before your interview, read the company's website, social media, customer reviews, and client feedback. Based on what you find, determine if the values, services, and company culture align with what you are seeking. Share what you learned during the interview, and use this time to ask any questions you may have.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Diversity
11. Do you have experience working with diverse groups of people?
How to Answer
Working with a diverse group of individuals is very beneficial to the organizations that employ a diverse workforce. As a Facility Manager, not only will you work in a diverse organization, but you will also work with a diverse customer base. The interviewer wants to know what experience you have working with diverse groups of people. Assure the interviewer that you can handle an environment that embraces diversity.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Experience
12. What type of facilities management systems are you familiar with?
How to Answer
As a Facility Manager, there are several systems you might use to perform your duties. Discuss with the interviewer the systems you are familiar with or use regularly. You can also ask which systems are used by this company. Some examples include:
-Enterprise Asset Management (EAM)
-Computer-Aided Facilities Management (CAFM)
-Integrated Workplace Management Systems (IWMS)
-Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS)
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Experience
13. What experiences do you have operating a building of this size and capacity?
How to Answer
When it comes to operating a facility, size can play a significant role in managing functions, meeting standards, services provided, and more. The interviewer wants to know if you've operated a building the same size and capacity as the one you'd be responsible for if hired. Describe your experience operating buildings of the same size or similar. Ensure the interviewer that you are well equipped.
If you don't have experience operating a facility of this size, describe any closely related experience that will allow you to perform this role successfully.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Experience
14. What are your strengths?
How to Answer
Demonstrate your self-awareness by sharing a strength you possess that is related to the facility manager role. Provide an example that supports your response.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Experience
15. Describe your experience with legal and financial documents.
How to Answer
Facility managers must know how to read financial statements and legal documents when working with contracts and managing budgets. Discuss your experience with these types of documents with the interviewer. If you don't have significant experience, you can also share any education you've had in this area.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Experience
16. In your previous roles, what steps have you taken to meet environmental standards and regulations?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know that you are familiar with the standards and regulations for facilities. Share your knowledge and experience with compliance.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Experience
17. Describe your experience handling emergencies or crises.
How to Answer
In this particular career field, this question could focus on several areas, from financial problems to issues with the building. The interviewer wants to know how you've handled crises in previous roles. Assure them you are well equipped to respond quickly, calmly, and appropriately to whatever the issue might be.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Experience
18. Tell me about your experience working with HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and other building necessities?
How to Answer
As a Facility Manager, a large part of your responsibilities will be focused on the HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems of the building. The interviewer wants to know your expertise level performing this type of work. Share your experience and any certifications you have attained pertaining to these specialties.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Leadership
19. What is the most difficult aspect of leading employees for you?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to learn more about who you are as a leader. Every leader has something that is challenging for them. Candidly discuss the aspect of leadership that is most challenging for you, and share why it is a challenge. It may be something that pushes you emotionally. It may be an area that is not your strength. Feel free to openly share what you struggle with. Odds are, the interviewer will take this feedback to heart and ensure that you receive assistance in this area if you are hired.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Leadership
20. What leadership qualities do you possess?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to hear about your leadership qualities. Below are examples of qualities that leaders possess. Discuss the qualities you possess and share why you feel you have these qualities.
- Being someone who people naturally want to follow
- Exceptional interpersonal skills
- Strong relationship building skills
- Taking ownership for the team's errors and mistakes
- Excels at motivating others
- Providing kudos to your team
- Knowing how to select and hire the right people to join the team
- Having a vision for the future
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Leadership
21. Do you consider yourself a leader?
How to Answer
By definition, a leader can lead others, have authority, and encourage others to work together towards a common goal. The interviewer wants to know if you consider yourself a leader and if you have what it takes to lead people inside and outside of their organization. Whether or not you have officially held leadership roles, you may possess leadership qualities. Be honest in your response, and discuss whether or not you possess the following common qualities of a leader:
-Good communicator
-Has a vision for the future
-Empathetic
-Accountable
-Expresses gratitude
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Management
22. Do you have experience hiring and firing employees?
How to Answer
As a Facility Manager, you will be responsible for hiring new employees and firing those that do not meet performance requirements or act against the company's policy. Share your experience performing these functions with the interviewer.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Management
23. How do you evaluate success among your team members?
How to Answer
When you are leading a team, it is very important to be aware of the level of success that each team member is experiencing. One underperforming team player can drag down the entire group. Talk to the interviewer about how you stay aware of each team member's success.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Management
24. Describe your management style.
How to Answer
The purpose of this question is to determine if you have a management style that fits the team you'll be leading. Research has shown that employees are happier and more productive when they have a manager whose style matches their needs. Share the style that you think would be most effective in this role.
If you are uncertain, think about management styles used by your previous supervisors and how the employees responded to those methods. You can also consider the following management styles:
-Transformational
-Visionary
-Democratic
-Training
-Laissez-fare
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Management
25. How do you successfully motivate your team?
How to Answer
Motivated employees are productive employees. Talk to the interviewer about how you ensure that your team is motivated and as productive as possible.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Performance Based
26. What are your weaknesses?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know what your biggest challenge is in facilities management. You should be candid in your answer. Recognize that you aren't great at something and acknowledge your need to improve. However, pick weaknesses that are not core skills for this position. Be sure to have an action plan in place to improve this weakness.
Perhaps you are watching TED talks to gain skills in a particular area, reading the latest and greatest book on the subject, or taking skills workshops at a nearby community center. Identify your weakness and the action you've taken to improve.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Performance Based
27. How would you handle a contractor that was underperforming?
How to Answer
Contractors and employees are required to meet certain performance standards. The interviewer wants to know how you would handle someone that isn't meeting those standards.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Performance Based
28. What immediate changes do you hope to make if hired for this position?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know how you plan to make an initial impact on the organization. Share some ideas that you may have. However, your response shouldn't sound like you plan to do a complete overhaul. It also shouldn't sound like you won't make an impact at all.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Problem Solving
29. What was your biggest issue or challenge at your last position? How did you overcome that challenge?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to gauge your ability to face challenges in the workplace. Share an experience you've had and describe how you overcame the challenge.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Scenario Based
30. Tell me about a time when you were effective at handling multiple projects at once.
How to Answer
As a manager, you will be required to take care of multiple projects and deadlines. Assure the interviewer that you are capable of doing so.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Scenario Based
31. Tell me when you have delegated tasks effectively.
How to Answer
Interviewers want to hear that you trust your team and are not afraid to delegate. This shows the interviewer that you can effectively manage your time to ensure you are available to take on only the most important leadership tasks. Share an example of when you delegated effectively on the job. Perhaps there was a time your workload picked up and you chose to have others on your team assist you.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Scenario Based
32. If you caught one of your maintenance workers stealing or sleeping on the job, what would you do? What would you do even if they were your best maintenance worker?
How to Answer
Sleeping and stealing on the job is a violation of the company policy. The interviewer wants to know how you would handle an employee who was breaking the rules. Assure the interviewer that you understand the severity of the incident and that you would handle it according to the company policy, even if it was your best worker.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Stress
33. Tell me about your ability to work under pressure and handle stressful situations
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know if you are someone who can handle stress on the job. Explain how you manage stressful times and discuss your ability to control pressure in the workplace.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Teamwork
34. What type of goals do you like to set for yourself and your team?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know the types of goals you set for your employees. Talk to the interviewer about the types of goals that you find most important.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021
Trust
35. Do people see you as a trustworthy and honest individual?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know how others perceive you and whether or not you would be a good fit for the team. Employees that have integrity have long-standing careers and are more likely to be good representations of the company. Ask your coworkers or previous supervisor if they deem you trustworthy, or recall a previous performance review in which this subject was discussed. Share the feedback with the interviewer.
Written by Ronda Barnes on November 18th, 2021