Securing a new job in the highly competitive fields of construction, engineering, or architecture requires more than just technical expertise. It’s also about preparation, mindset, and how you present yourself. The recruitment team at Grada shares their top technical interview tips to help you stand out and take the next step in your career.
Meet the Experts
Lucy Lyttelton
Principal consultant in the Engineering team with 11 years of experience in civil, structural, environmental, and geotechnical recruitment.
Ash Gray
Principal consultant in civil construction recruitment, known for his expertise in connecting top talent with high-performing teams.
Georgia Barr
Associate Director specialising in architecture, with extensive experience helping candidates secure roles in leading firms.
Acing the Technical Interview – Our Tips
Technical interviews often combine behavioural questions with problem-solving and project-based discussion. Employers are looking for well-rounded candidates who can not only do the job but also contribute positively to their team.
Be Ready to Talk Through Real Projects
Common interview questions for construction, engineering, and architecture jobs often combine behavioural and skill-based topics. Employers want to assess your qualifications and how you approach challenges.
Lucy advises:
“Be prepared to discuss real examples of your work. Employers will often ask about specific projects you’ve been involved in, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them.”
Structure Your Answers Using the STAR Method
Having clear, structured answers is key to showcasing your problem-solving abilities and adaptability. Using the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method helps frame your responses clearly and shows the impact you made.
Show Off Your Soft Skills
Employers also value non-technical traits such as adaptability, teamwork, and problem-solving. These are often what set candidates apart.
Ash shares:
“It’s a two-way street. Candidates should be prepared to ask thoughtful questions about company culture and career progression.”
Do Your Research – and Ask the Right Questions
Researching the company beforehand and preparing insightful questions shows genuine interest and demonstrates how you could fit into the team. It’s also your chance to figure out if the company aligns with your own goals and values.
This is an important opportunity to ask questions that matter most to you.
Be Honest, Listen Well, and Take Your Time
Listening is just as important as talking.
Georgia recommends:
“Don’t feel like you need to fill every silence. If you’re unsure about a question, ask for clarification rather than guessing. Honesty and authenticity go a long way.”
Taking a moment to consider your answer before responding shows confidence and professionalism. It reinforces your credibility. And don’t worry if you need to ask the question again – the interviewer will understand and appreciate that.
Technical Interview Red Flags to Avoid
Flexibility Matters
Lucy says:
“If you’re seeking a new role, it’s important to be flexible to interview within business hours. Clients also have work/life balance and home lives. This flexibility shows you’re committed to finding the right role and respectful of their time.”
Rigid availability can make you appear disinterested or difficult to work with. A bit of flexibility goes a long way.
First Impressions Count
Ash warns:
“Lateness and scruffiness are major red flags. First impressions matter.”
Turn up on time, dress appropriately for the role, and be polite and engaged.
Be Upfront About Salary, But Talk to Your Recruiter
Georgia explains:
“When it comes to salary, be transparent with your recruiter. We’re here to advocate for you and negotiate a package that reflects your value – but we can only do that effectively if we’re all on the same page.”
Letting your recruiter handle salary discussions with the client helps keep things smooth and avoids unnecessary back-and-forth.
Set Yourself Up for Virtual Interview Success
If you’re doing a virtual interview, don’t take it in your car or somewhere noisy. Choose a quiet, well-lit space with a plain background. Test your tech beforehand and ensure you have a reliable connection.
Nerves are Normal
Feeling nervous is completely normal before an interview. Here are a few tips to help channel those nerves in the right way:
- Breathe: Slow, steady breathing helps calm your mind and steady your voice.
- Good posture: Sit tall and avoid fidgeting, confident body language can make a big impact.
- Pause before responding: Take a moment to think. It shows you’re thoughtful and in control.
- Eye contact: Whether in person or via video, maintaining eye contact builds connection.
- Smile and be personable: Positivity and authenticity leave a lasting impression.
- Own your nerves: Don’t try to hide them, use them as fuel to show how much you care.
Why Choose Grada Recruitment
Beyond interview prep, Grada Recruitment helps candidates secure roles that align with their goals and strengths.
Lucy shares:
“As industry insiders, we gain an in-depth understanding of our clients and the specific qualities employers in construction, engineering, and architecture are looking for. We work closely with candidates to refine their CVs, prepare them for interviews, and ultimately help them secure the best job opportunities.”
Ash adds:
“We’re not just placing CVs – we’re advocating for you and ensuring you put your best foot forward.”
Georgia says:
“We take the time to get to know each candidate, their goals, and aspirations. That allows us to provide tailored advice and connect them with roles that are truly the right fit.”
Put Your Best Foot Forward with Grada Recruitment
Landing a role in construction, engineering, or architecture takes more than ticking technical boxes. Employers are looking for candidates who are prepared, professional, and aligned with their values.
When you partner with Grada Recruitment, you gain access to expert advice, insider industry knowledge, and exclusive opportunities that help you get ahead. Ready to take the next step?
Contact the team at Grada – we’re with you every step of the way.
