Do you have a construction interview lined up? Whether you’re new or an experienced professional in the construction field, you might want to take the time to refine your interviewing skills. After all, it never hurts to practice before the real deal, even if you are confident that your resume speaks for itself. These tips on interviewing well can help you shine and stand out from other applicants.

1. Do Your Research

To start, read the company’s website and look online for the names of important management and executive team members. Find out more about your interviewers; learn a key fact about them. For example, maybe they won a recent professional award or were recognized in a magazine or in the paper for their work.

You can refer to it during your interview by giving them a compliment about their award or project like “I see that the company expanded into this market last year by taking on this project.” Such enthusiasm shows that you have taken great interest in the company and are eager to be part of it.

2. Look Your Best

You may have one shot to make a positive impression during your interview so ensure you’re looking your best. It is a good idea to find out more about the company’s dress culture to get a sense of what employees wear every day by looking at their company website or LinkedIn page. Dark pants or skirt and a crisp shirt, groomed nails, clean face, natural makeup, and professional-looking shoes are good in most interview situations.

3. Rehearse your interview

Be prepared to answer such classic interview questions like “Why do you want to work for this company?” and “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”. Get familiar with other common construction interview questions. Also, take a look in the mirror and see if your posture shows you look confident and ready. For instance, if you keep your hands in your lap, it can signal your lack of self-confidence. It’s always good practice to stand up if a new person enters the room while you’re interviewing.

Practice in front of the mirror or record yourself answering the questions aloud. You can also ask a trusted friend or loved one to work on interviewing with you so you can get feedback on your body language and answers. This preparation will help you better understand your thoughts, be mindful of your body, and feel more self-assured during your interview.

4. Don’t be afraid to ask questions

Interviewing is a two-way street. Asking thoughtful questions is an opportunity to learn more about the company and to see if the company and its people are also a good fit for you. Ask a few questions about your interviewer’s experience with the company, address questions, or uncertainties that may have come up during your research, and immediate projects in need of completion by your position, among others. It’s best to keep a few important career questions in mind. Be aware to not take up too much of your interviewer’s time, but gaining clarity on the company and role are crucial. Keep these in mind and you’ll come out of the interview on a positive note.

5. Prepare for a phone interview

A phone interview is as important as an in-person interview and can get you to the next step. Even though you may not see the person, you need to prepare well for a phone interview. Make sure you confirm your interviewer’s name, date, and time of your interview. In case of a last-minute meeting with your boss, or if you have an emergency, get your interviewer’s phone number and/or email to reschedule your interview. Also ensure you’re in a quiet environment for your phone interview. If you have one, use a landline, as cellphones can be unreliable at times.

6. Get ready for a video interview

Nowadays, it is not uncommon to have a video interview as the first part of the interviewing process or with the manager. If you have an upcoming video interview, make sure the room is well-lit, professional looking, and free of distractions. Also, make sure the device you are using for your interview works well.

7. Last, Smile!

No matter the type of interview, the pressure can take its toll and may manifest itself through your body language. Be sure to flash a natural smile and relax your body. You’ll look and sound approachable and friendly! A smile also shows your interviewers that you’ll be a great teammate who can get along with the boss and make an impression on any client.

As always, send a thank you note after your interview, expressing your appreciation for the opportunity to interview. Practice makes perfect with construction interviewing. Remembering the basic tips will help you out in the long run. Be prepared, stay positive, and you’ll make it. Good luck with your interview!

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