What questions should you ask during your interview for a construction role?

Knowing what questions you should ask during your interview for a construction role is key.

The interview process can be stressful for everyone. Knowing what questions you should ask during your interview for a construction role is key. 

If you are applying for several jobs, and most people do, be sure to curate your questions to suit each role and company. However, there are some more generic questions that you can use as building blocks to create your interview question deck. 

If you are wondering what questions construction companies will ask you, read more in our recent blog. 

Keep reading to see what questions you should ask during your interview for a construction job role.

What would your working schedule look like?

All companies work differently and it is important to know what your working schedule would look like. Knowing what your working schedule would be will help you make an informed decision as to whether or not the role works for your own personal circumstances. 

In an ever-changing world, working behaviours and patterns have shifted. More and more workers favour a flexible schedule and it’s important to know if this is possible for you.

Ask about current and upcoming projects

Ask the recruiter or hiring manager about any current projects they are working on or upcoming projects. This will give you an idea of what type of client the company has as well as shows your interest in the company. 

What additional training and support is offered?

Knowing what additional training and support is available to you is essential in any role. Particularly within construction companies. There are many new tools and techniques that are introduced within the construction industry, it is important to keep up to date with the training. 

It is important to make sure the company you are working for offers you training and support as this helps your career progression and grows your skills. 

Is there any career progression

Ask about the potential career progression you could expect when you take on a role within a construction company. This shows you are interested in moving forwards with your career and helping grow the company in general. 

Additionally, you can ask what the career progression of current employees has been. If team members are staying within the company and progressing further it’s all green flags. 

Why is the position open?

If you’re feeling bold why not ask them why they are recruiting for the position you have applied for? It could be risky but in the current jobs market taking a chance and seeing why companies are recruiting could provide you with insight into the business. 

Of course, there is always a right way to ask these questions, make sure you build up to the question and be tactful. No potential employer wants an interviewee to imply people don’t want to work at the company. 

It’s no secret that the construction industry is a fast-paced environment, knowing what to expect of the company you are interviewing with is essential in making the right decision for you. 

At FBR we work with many candidates from preparing to apply for jobs and interview preparation. If you are looking for a new role within the construction industry visit our jobs board today or contact our team of construction recruitment experts.



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Questions you will be asked during an interview for a construction role

there are many different types of questions you will be asked during an interview

There are only so many ways to prepare for an interview. Knowing what questions you will be asked during an interview for a construction role is one of them. While we can’t predict what a potential employer will ask you, we do have a few common questions that you can prepare for.

At the end of the day, make sure you answer the questions as best you can and just be yourself. The right company is out there and everyone can find the best job to suit them. Let’s look at the different types of questions you will be asked during your interview for a construction role. 

Opening questions in an interview for a construction role

Like all interviews, there will be a few basic questions that a potential employer will ask you. It’s always best to prepare for as many different types of questions as possible, however, each interview is different and some interviewers may throw out a curve ball. 

Tell me about yourself

The one question that everyone dreads but is probably the most common question employers will ask. For whatever reason this question is always asked during an interview so it’s best to prepare for it. 

What experience do you have

If a potential employer has read your CV then they should already know, however, a CV has been carefully curated. So asking directly what experience you have provides the interviewer with details you may have missed out or you can expand upon your CV. 

What specific qualifications do you have

Again, while these may be listed on your CV it can give you the chance to expand in your qualifications. Think of ways you can include additional qualifications and how those provide transferable skills. Always look for ways to improve and expand on your CV, show them your personality while you do this.

Further questions you will be asked during a construction role interview

Interviews aren’t always so prescriptive. You will be asked many questions in particular about past projects you have worked on. If you have yet to gain experience in the construction industry, don’t worry about it too much. Look for projects you have done that can provide the interviewer with an insight into your work ethic and any crossover skills you have. 

Tell us about a favourite project

Prepare the details of your most favourite project to have worked on. Think about why it was your favourite, perhaps it was a prestigious project or the results had a positive impact for the customer. Whatever your reasoning, think about projects you’ve worked on and your involvement in them. 

What has been a difficult project you’ve worked on? 

Don’t be worried about being asked about difficult projects. A difficult project doesn’t have to be one that went wrong from start to finish, but could be a project that provided many barriers you had to overcome. This is a great question for you to showcase your critical thinking skills as you explain the barriers and difficulties and the decisions you made to complete the project. 

Explain how you have overcome problems during a project or task

This question isn’t supposed to trap you or trick you into thinking you aren’t equipped for the job. Knowing how you have overcome problems and how you deal with them is key for many industries. After all, nothing ever goes as planned and knowing you are capable of problem solving is a desired skill for many employers. 

Ultimately there are many different types of questions you will be asked during an interview. Each company will tailor their interview questions to suit the specific job role they are recruiting for. The key is to know your own skills and prepare yourself. That is the key to successful interviews. 

If you are looking for your next job in construction speak to our expert recruitment agents now. FBR has worked with construction companies across the UK and placed amazing talent in the right job roles. View our jobs board now or contact us for more information. 



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What’s your best advice for first-time construction workers?

we have many pieces of advice for first time construction workers

Here at FBR, we have many pieces of advice for first time construction workers that we want to share. The construction industry is one of the oldest industries around. Since the beginning of time, there has always been a need for construction workers. While the construction landscape may look different it is still vital and important as ever to our society. 

For first time construction workers it can be daunting to begin working in this ever changing industry. Here at FBR, we have some important advice to pass on to those who are just starting out in their construction careers. 

Say yes to every opportunity given 

It is important to learn as much as possible in your first role. This is why any opportunity you are given in your first construction job role is key. Say yes and enjoy the new opportunities and experiences you are given

Qualifications and training days 

When working in any industry it is important to always consider your own personal qualifications and certifications. Asking for training opportunities and qualifications not only helps put you on the right track for your desired career, but it also shows your willingness to learn new skills. This is great for employers as they want their employees to be eager to learn and use those skills to their advantage within the business. Qualifications and training opportunities benefit you as well as your employer. 

Find a mentor 

Working in construction is hard work. That is why finding a mentor you can learn from is beneficial. When you find someone you connect with you can learn from their own skills and experiences as well as ask them any questions you may have. A mentor will be invaluable as you grow within your construction role.

Do your research 

There are many roles within the construction industry. It is important to understand which roles are available to you and where you would like to be working within the next five years. Having an understanding of the industry and what roles you can do as well as where you want your career to go will help you in the long run. Do your research and know what roles and responsibilities are required for each position you are interested in. 

Stay hydrated 

This may seem like a no-brainer, but it is so important to remember that construction work is physically demanding. That means you need to make sure you look after your body and stay hydrated and make sure you eat! Construction sites will have facilities available to you but being prepared is always the best option. 

Safety is key

Construction sites are busy places. Whether you are working on a residential project or other types of construction work, there will always be machinery and equipment around. Accidents can happen which is why you need to make sure to wear all necessary PPE and follow the site safety rules set out at the beginning of the project. 

If you have any concerns regarding site safety, report these to the site supervisor or manager to have them resolved. 

Ultimately the construction industry is a fast paced environment with masses of opportunities to grow and learn. Hard work is always rewarded, as well as following best practices and safety procedures. 

Are you looking for a career in construction? Here at FBR, our recruitment agents have a wide range of experience recruiting for construction roles. Contact our team today to see what opportunities we have available for you or view our jobs board. 



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White-collar construction jobs boom set to continue

Construction jobs continue to grow

Construction jobs continue to grow
The world of recruitment constantly changes, in particular white-collar construction jobs. As the construction industry continues to evolve the job landscape will move with it. Here at FBR, we have seen how the construction industry changes and how technology is moving white-collar construction jobs with it.

The construction industry makes up a large proportion of the UK jobs market. Spanning across many different roles, the construction industry is vital to the evolution of the UK. White-collar construction is no different, focusing on a different aspect of construction; white-collar construction roles are continuing to grow in demand.

One of the major changes we have seen in the construction industry is the move towards sustainable construction. This is having a big impact on the types of jobs available. Sustainability is now one of the key changes we are seeing in the industry. Noticing these changes has allowed a number of white-collar construction jobs to come into the industry and the growth of this is showing no signs of slowing down.

What are white-collar construction jobs?

White-collar construction jobs are those that require a higher level of education and training than traditional construction jobs. They are often skilled jobs such as project manager, quantity surveyor or engineer. Each role is essential to the construction project for many different reasons. Each white-collar role has specific qualifications and skills needed, if you are unsure whether you have what it takes speak to our recruitment team. Our experts are on hand to help guide you through the process and match you with your dream role.

How do you get a white-collar construction job?

The best way to find a white-collar construction job is to search online. In the past, finding a white-collar construction job was a very different process. It would usually involve approaching a company or recruitment agency and going through a lengthy process of interviews and assessment days. However, thanks to the internet, this is no longer the case.

There are now a number of websites and online portals that allow you to search for white-collar construction jobs. This means that you can easily find a job that suits your skills and experience. Another way to find a role is to use a trusted recruitment agency. Here at FBR, we have worked within the recruitment industry, particularly construction recruitment for over 20+ years. Our understanding and expertise in this industry allows us to place the right people in the right roles.

How is the construction industry changing?

The construction industry is going through a period of change. We are seeing a move towards sustainable construction, as well as the use of more technology on construction sites. This is having an impact on the types of jobs available and the skills that are needed.

As the UK jobs market continually evolves, working with a recruitment agency who understands your industry and needs is essential. Here at FBR, we have direct experience recruiting in the construction industry. If you are looking for a white-collar construction job, then search online or speak to our specialist recruitment agents. Here at FBR, we can help you find the perfect role for your skills and experience, while also making sure it’s the perfect fit. Reach your goals with FBR. Contact us now.

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Career switch – transferable skills in construction roles

No matter what age you are there may be times when you wish to switch careers

No matter what age you are there may be times when you wish to switch careers. Many recruiters will tell you that after certain ages this is no longer a possibility. However, we think differently. If you are looking to swap careers there is a way around it which makes it easier to land those interviews. 

Transferable skills are the skills that overlap in many different job roles and industries. Many companies also prefer candidates who have a wide range of skills that can be transferred to their new positions.

Having experience in other industries and job roles is extremely beneficial. You as a potential candidate have knowledge of various industries and how things are done. This brings a whole new perspective to the construction industry and can help construction businesses also improve their service offerings and processes. 

So we all understand the benefits of transferable skills and why a career switch can be done at any age; let’s look at the skills that are highly coveted and transferable when looking for a role in construction.

Communication skills

Working in construction requires high levels of communication skills. Whether you are communicating with fellow team members on how a task is going to be completed; or you are updating a client on the status of a project. 

In all roles, communication skills are essential, if you can highlight the ways you have improved and used communication skills in previous projects and roles on your CV then do it.

Project management skills

When looking at swapping careers in the construction industry look at any projects you have been a part of. It’s no surprise that construction companies are heavily project based and as such, showing that you have experience managing projects and executing them according to the brief is extremely beneficial. 

Highlight the intricacies of the project that you were a part of and make sure to leave no detail out. Projects come in all shapes and sizes and for construction projects, this is no different. 

People skills

Another important transferable skill for the construction industry is people skills. No matter your role, you will be working with people across the board from different backgrounds. Whether that is on the ground as a labourer executing the work, or as a project manager delegating and managing key aspects of the project.

Determination and mental strength

Working in construction means you will potentially be exposed to the wide range of elements the UK has to offer. While if weather makes it unsafe to carry out work you won’t be expected to soldier on. However, come wind, rain, or shine, that construction project has to be completed. 

Construction workers need to be determined to carry on working safely no matter the conditions. As well as the mental strength required to keep going to ensure a project is completed on time. If you have situations where you can provide evidence of these combined skills it can go a long way.

When looking to change careers there are many things you can do to help move the process along. Work with a dedicated team who specialises in the construction industry to help guide you to the best role suitable for you.

Our team at FBR are experienced in working with construction companies and understands the requirements for each industry role. Our recruiters are on hand to help you find your dream job and help position you in front of the best companies to provide just that. Contact us today. 



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How do I start a career in Construction Project Management

Learn how to start a career in Construction Project Management with FBR Recruitment

Learn how to start a career in Construction Project Management with FBR Recruitment
Starting a career in construction project management can be daunting for anyone. Like with all careers, there isn’t one route that works for everyone. The way people find their career path varies.

Speak to anyone in any industry and they will have their own story. There are however, some consistencies across multiple industries and routes into work. They begin with entry level roles, and move deeper into other avenues of education and on the job training.

Entry level construction project management roles

As with all industries, there are entry level roles that can help you get started in your career in construction project management.

The first entry level construction project management role would be a trainee position. This would require you to have some experience within the construction industry. However you will not be solely responsible for all the tasks of a construction project manager. You will learn from the people above you as you train.

Another entry level position is a project assistant. This role would require you to assist the project manager in their tasks and help with the overall workload.

How to start a career in construction project management

There are two identifiable routes to starting your career in construction project management. No matter how many people you speak with; they will have taken one or a combination of the two routes into their careers.

Route one – Academic

The first route you can take into construction project management is the academic route. This is where you tailor your education after GCSEs to build towards your career in construction project management. From specific A levels such as Maths, IT and Business courses into undergraduate degrees and postgraduate degrees at University.

You may then also wish to take on various other degrees and accreditations within the industry to further bolster your academic records.

This route isn’t for everyone as it requires the time spent in education where coursework and exams are part of the process.

Route two – Work your way up

An alternative route is through experience and working within the construction industry directly. Here you will look at more vocational ways of training. That would be through on the job training with additional courses to supplement your qualifications. Or alternatively, some construction firms may offer apprenticeship level courses.

Working your way up through the ranks holds a lot of merit as you have direct experience working in each aspect of the projects you would be managing in the future.

The vocational way of getting into construction project management may take more or less time depending on the industry at the time. When there is an increase in demand for construction project managers you may find yourself thrust into the position.

Going the vocational route doesn’t mean you won’t have access to additional courses which you can take to supplement your experience. These courses can be done in your own time and are less pressured than traditional academic routes.

No matter how you want to get into construction project management, finding the right recruitment agency to help you in your career is essential. Here at FBR, we work with you to find the right role with the right company.

View our Jobs Board now to see what roles we have on offer. Already found something you like? Contact us now.

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What is the role of project manager in construction projects?

Read about the role of a Construction Project Manager

Read about the role of a Construction Project Manager
A construction project manager is an important role in all construction projects. Having someone who understands each phase of the project and is actively involved in ensuring it is on budget and completed within the deadline is a necessity.

Construction project management requires a few key skills, knowledge of construction sites. This will ensure that the project is run safely. Leadership skills, to help keep the team on track with the necessary tasks. Attention to detail and excellent communication skills.

This role is suited to those with a can-do attitude and high amounts of persistence and determination. Here at FBR, we believe that when you understand what is required of you in a job, only then can you shine and make the right decisions. For more details on a Construction Project Manager Job Description and Salary read our blog.

Why do construction projects need a project manager?

Construction projects are huge projects that require various phases. Each phase is essential to getting construction projects completed on time and within budget. A project manager is key to ensuring that construction projects are kept on schedule and run with all the health and safety requirements in mind.

There are lots of people who work on a construction project. A construction project manager is the one who understands each part of the project and roles the team has to play.

What are the differences between a project manager and construction project manager?

There are a few differences between a project manager and a construction project manager. The main difference is that a project manager doesn’t always work on a construction site. A construction project manager almost always works on the construction site and managers the project as it’s being built. There may be days where a construction project manager isn’t on site, but they may be few and far between.

The skills that a project manager needs are all the same regardless of area. However, a construction project manager also requires in depth knowledge of health and safety regulations that need to be met on site. This is to ensure that the team is kept safe in their working environment as well as ensuring that the project meets the regulatory standards necessary.

Day to day tasks of a project manager in construction

The day to day tasks of a project manager in construction can vary. However, each day it is essential that a construction project manager checks in with any deliveries or budget requests. This helps keep the project running smoothly as well as on budget.

A construction project manager will also delegate tasks to other team members and ensure that the tasks are completed. If there are any issues within the project it will be the responsibility of the construction project manager to use initiative and leadership skills to help solve the problem.

Understanding the details of a role is essential to making the right career decisions. Here at FBR, we believe that there is the right role for everyone. When you find the right job you can continue to grow and evolve in your career. For more information on all our roles visit our Jobs Board.

Found a role that’s right for you? Contact our construction recruitment experts.

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Construction Project Manager, Job Description & Salary

Insight into construction project managers job and salary

Insight into construction project managers job and salary
Learn all about a construction project manager job description and salary in FBR’s detailed job guide. Understanding a role is essential in finding the right job. From a detailed job description to salary information as well as qualifications and skills, you will find out all you need to know about construction project management.

Construction project manager job description

The main responsibilities of a construction project manager are to ensure a project is run smoothly, on time and within budget.

You will be in a leadership role which means that you will need to delegate tasks and help organise each phase of the project. This is an important aspect of the job as there are many different tasks and responsibilities.

Attention to detail is essential as well as communication. You will be required to speak with various people across the board to provide updates on how the project is going.

Being on site and ready to tackle the challenges of a construction site is necessary. There are various health and safety protocols which will need to be followed and can vary depending on the site and project. Understanding the intricacies of this is important as you will ultimately be responsible for your own safety and the team.

Construction project manager salary

A construction project manager salary will vary depending on a few factors, such as; experience, qualifications, and most importantly location.

Location plays a large role in any job’s salary. Is it important to note when looking at project management roles in construction that you take into consideration your own location, qualifications, and experience.

The average salary for a construction project manager in the UK is around: £61,769. This can vary depending on location and experience. The minimum salary for a construction project manager is £37,500, whereas the maximum salary for a construction project manager is reported at £89,700.

Project manager qualifications

As with many roles it is essential to have qualifications in order to perform a job. In particular, the construction industry requires a few key qualifications.

It is becoming increasingly common for construction companies to require each individual obtains a CSCS card. You can learn more about them here.

University construction project management courses

One of the more traditional routes of education is to obtain a construction project management degree from participating universities.

As a rule of thumb, you will need 2-3 A levels or equivalent in a relevant field or a first degree in a relevant subject. The A levels will provide you access to an undergraduate course, whereas a first degree will provide you with access to a postgraduate course.

Depending on the university you may find either: Construction Management, Project Management courses. Alternatively, Business and IT courses can cover similar subjects and provide a broader field of job opportunities should you change your mind further in the future.

College construction project management courses

For those who prefer a more hands on approach; college or training providers might be more suitable. These work on a NVQ qualification basis, which means that you obtain qualifications with more hands-on experience.

You will be able to begin an NVQ straight after secondary education. You will need 4-5 GCSEs graded between 4-9 (that is equivalent to C-A* in the old grading system). These qualifications will gain you entry into a level 3 NVQ course.

Alternatively, if you have studied A levels at college you will be able to move directly onto a level 4 or 5 NVQ course.

There are various NVQs you could do from Business Improvement Techniques, to Project management. Always speak to the training provider to ensure that you are entering the right course.

Soft Skills

There are many skills required to work in construction project management which are not always found through a course.

The soft skills refer to skills which are typically unable to be assessed on any qualification or proven otherwise.

Soft skills that are required for project management are;

  • Communication skills
  • Organisational skills
  • Logical and Critical thinking skills
  • People management

These skills are gained through experience and can always be worked upon.

Are you looking for your next role in construction project management? Contact FBR now or view our Jobs Board for more information.

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Day in the life – What is it like to work on a construction site

Day in the life on a construction site

Day in the life on a construction site
Knowing what a typical day looks like for any job is extremely important. Having the information on what can happen, and what to expect will enable people to align their own requirements with a specific role or industry.

A construction site is a busy and sometimes dangerous environment. Being prepared for what happens on site is essential for all of those who work within the construction industry.

Who works on a construction site?

There are many people who work on construction sites. Each person has their own role to play to ensure that the project is either completed, managed correctly, or carried out to the highest safety standards.

A project manager will be on hand to ensure that the project runs smoothly. They will be the connection between the client and the site manager. It will be the role of a site manager to ensure that each team who is working on the site has what they need to carry out their job. They will also ensure that the site is safe to work on and follow all compliance guidelines.

General construction crew will be responsible for doing the manual labour. There are different specialities within this sector, from brick laying, demolition, warehouse installation, and more.

There may also be electricians, plumbers, and even decorators on site at any point throughout a project.

Typical day on a construction site

There is no typical day on a construction site, depending on the phase of the project how the day is structured may vary. However, there are some consistencies when working on a construction site.

At the start of the day there may be a meeting, this will either be a project brief or checking in with the team on where each task is currently at. After everyone is settled in and knows what they need to do and where the project is at, most will then begin their tasks.

Depending on your role within the project your tasks may vary. For construction crew, you will be expected to prepare the site for safe working conditions. As well as perform many of the manual labour tasks. This can be moving site equipment safely with the relevant machinery, or building aspects of the project.

If you are within the project management department you will need to ensure that the project is running on time and smoothly. You will be responsible for budgeting, as well as obtaining the relevant items and materials for the ground crew to perform their role.

It is important to take the relevant breaks based on your role. Legally everyone is entitled to a break, and there are certain requirements that must be met. Each site has different restrictions, from working with chemicals, site conditions and temperatures and more. Ensure that you take the legally required breaks, otherwise it could be detrimental to your health as well as land your employer in hot water.

As you continue to work through each phase of the project you may be asked to provide updates and reports to various stakeholders. This is key information that allows a project manager to keep track of the progress as well as highlighting any issues that you may face.

At the end of the day there may be a progress update. This will be with your site manager, again these reports allow the project manager and site manager to see how the project is progressing.

Before the end of the day, the site will need to be cleared and tidied. This is important for many health and safety reasons. Equipment needs to be maintained and looked after as well as securing any materials that aren’t in use.

Every day is different on a construction site, understanding the health and safety rules you must abide by as well as the details within your role will help you navigate this fast paced environment.

If you are looking for your next role in construction, contact FBR recruitment today. Our team are experts in construction recruitment, and will help you find the right role. View our jobs board now.

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What are the pros and cons of working in construction

Learn about the pros and cons of working in construction

Learn about the pros and cons of working in construction
Every job has pros and cons, it’s the natural balance of life. We aren’t one to sugar coat something. It is important for all candidates to understand the roles they will be getting into. Whether that is understanding the salary and industry insights or knowing what a typical day in the job looks like.

Knowing what to expect within a role enables you as a candidate to make the right decision. As well as us in recruitment placing the right candidates.

Construction can be a complex and fast paced industry, so there are bound to be both pros and cons of working in construction. Let’s look at some of the benefits and not so fun parts of construction.

What are the cons of working in construction?

In order to not end this blog on a downer, let’s first look at the cons of working in construction. Because, let’s be honest, no job is perfect all the time.

1: Hours

The hours can be seen as a benefit for some, but typically the days in construction start early. Again, this all depends on the role you are in but if you are one of the construction crew you will most likely start your work as soon as possible. For some, the early day is great but for those who enjoy a later start to the morning it isn’t too fun.

2: Hard labour

Not to say that no one else works hard, but there it takes a different type of person to do manual labour associated with many construction roles. The implementation of machinery and such is making many roles easier to manage; many construction roles require physical labour. Be prepared.

3: Location

Some projects may require you to travel. This can be anywhere from an hour’s drive or maybe they will require overnight stays. Depending on how the construction company works, you may be asked to travel further distances than anticipated. This for some can be difficult to manage. So it is important to be honest with the employer or recruiter and find out how much travelling you may need to do.

What are the pros of working in construction?

So now we’ve looked at some of the not so good things about construction, and even then some may not see those as issues. Let’s look at some of the pros of working in construction.

1: Variety

One of the benefits of construction is that no two projects are alike. Each project will have different problems to solve, different working conditions, and the client is different too. This makes it extremely engaging for many people.

2: Opportunity

Working in construction provides many opportunities for advancing your career. There are so many different roles within the construction industry that you can continue to grow and advance in any area you set your mind to. The wealth of opportunities available means that there is something for everyone.

3: Not tied to a desk

Being in construction means that you are out and about and active. This means that you are always moving and doing something, for those who can’t stand sitting at a desk for hours; a job in construction is perfect for you.

What is the best role in construction?

In our opinion, there is no best role in construction. What makes a role the best, is one that fits you and what you need from a job. Making sure that you are working in an industry that you enjoy, with the people that you get along with is what will take a job, to the best job.

Knowing what to expect from any role is important. If you are looking for a job in construction and have questions about the industry, speak to our expert recruitment agents. Our team at FBR is here to help you find the right role for you.

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