Phone interviews are a common first step for civil engineers looking to land their first role. While it might feel less intimidating than a face-to-face meeting, it’s still important to be well-prepared. Here are some practical tips to help you succeed.
1. Prep Your Space and Tech
Before your interview, make sure you’re in a quiet spot where you won’t be interrupted. Test your phone’s reception and battery life, and if you’re using earphones or a headset, ensure everything is working smoothly. You don’t want to be the person who cuts out mid-sentence.
2. Research the Role and Company
Interviewers expect you to know a bit about the company you’re applying to, so spend some time understanding their projects and values. For civil engineers, this means knowing whether they focus on infrastructure, environmental work, or urban development. Show that you’re aware of their recent work or flagship projects by bringing it up in the conversation—it’ll show you’ve done your homework.
3. Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
Civil engineering phone interviews often include questions to assess your technical skills. You may be asked about engineering principles, specific design tools (like AutoCAD or Revit), or even problem-solving scenarios. You don’t need to recite textbooks, but make sure you can talk confidently about the core principles and any technical skills that match the job description.
For example, you might be asked:
- “Can you walk me through a time you solved a challenging design problem?”
- “How would you approach planning a small-scale infrastructure project?”
When answering, keep things clear and concise, avoiding too much technical jargon unless you know the interviewer is from an engineering background.
4. Prepare for Competency-Based Questions
Expect to be asked about your experiences and how they demonstrate key skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and time management. These questions often start with “Tell me about a time when…” For example:
- “Tell me about a time you worked on a project with tight deadlines.”
- “How have you handled setbacks during a project?”
Use the STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses. For example, if they ask about a time you managed conflicting deadlines, briefly describe the project, explain your role, the actions you took to manage the situation, and the positive outcome.
5. Highlight Soft Skills
While technical skills are crucial, soft skills like communication and teamwork are just as important in civil engineering. You’ll likely work with clients, architects, and other engineers, so be ready to talk about your ability to collaborate effectively. If you’ve worked on group projects at university or in internships, mention these experiences to show how you’ve successfully navigated team dynamics.
6. Clarify Any Gaps or Changes
If there are any gaps in your CV or a career change on the horizon, be prepared to explain them. Be honest, but spin them in a positive light. For example, if you took time off after university to travel or pursue other interests, explain how it has helped you develop skills relevant to the job, like time management or adaptability.
7. Ask Your Own Questions
Phone interviews are a two-way street, and asking thoughtful questions shows you’re serious about the role. Focus on topics that matter to you, such as:
- “What does the progression path look like for a new engineer here?”
- “Can you tell me more about the team I would be working with?”
Avoid asking about salary or benefits at this stage unless the interviewer brings it up—it’s better to save those questions for later in the process.
8. Keep It Professional, But Relaxed
Even though it’s a phone interview, treat it with the same professionalism as an in-person meeting. Speak clearly, listen carefully, and don’t rush your answers. But also remember that the interviewer is trying to get to know you as a person, not just as a CV. Smile while you speak—it helps convey enthusiasm and positivity, even over the phone.
9. Follow Up
After the interview, it’s always a good idea to send a brief thank-you email. Mention something specific from the conversation to personalise it, like, “Thank you for explaining more about your recent infrastructure project—I’m excited about the chance to contribute to work like that.”
In summary, being prepared and staying professional are key to impressing in a phone interview. It’s about showcasing both your technical knowledge and your ability to fit into the company’s culture. With the right preparation, you’ll be well on your way to securing that first civil engineering role. Good luck!