If you’re working toward a future in welding, one of the first steps for an entry-level position is a welding job interview. For some people, interviews cause nervousness or anxiety. But they don’t have to—especially if you’re prepared ahead of time. Preparation leads to confidence, and confidence is one of the most important elements to a positive interview!
To help you prepare and learn how to get a welding job, we’ve compiled some first interview tips, including sample welding job interview questions you may be asked, what to wear to a welding job interview, and more.
In many industries, such as business, accounting or marketing, individuals who interview for job openings wear professional, tailored clothing and dress shoes. However, this attire isn’t always the right choice in the welding trade. If you’re interviewing for an entry-level welding position, you’ll likely be asked to perform a welding test as part of the interview process.
With this welding test in mind, consider wearing good quality work boots, a long-sleeve shirt and jeans to the interview. If you know a welding test isn’t involved in your first interview, consider wearing tailored clothing—such as slacks and a button-down shirt—to appear professional and polished.
Regardless of your clothing type, make sure your clothes fit well and are clean. An interview is a professional meeting, so cleanliness and polite manners go a long way toward a good first impression.
Related: Types of Welding Protective Gear
Another first interview tip: ask the hiring manager if you’ll be required to perform a welding test at your interview. If the interviewer requires you to demonstrate your welding skills during the interview, you’ll want to bring several items with you so that you’re prepared with everything you need to succeed. Bring the following items:
It’s also recommended to bring a copy of your resume, which shows past welding experience, training and credentials you’ve earned. Bring a list of references, if possible. References are individuals who are willing and able to speak to your welding abilities, skills and personal character. They might be former employers, school instructors or community members who know you well. Lastly, bring a confident, positive mindset to your welding job interview.
If you’re wondering how to get a welding job, the answer might be simpler than you think. Demonstrate your skills! In other words, as you’re preparing for your welding job interview, practice your welding approach. Practice increases your confidence and keeps your skills and knowledge fresh.
Many hiring managers will mention in the job posting the type of welding you’ll be required to do at the interview. MIG welding is often used for small-to-medium sized projects, while stick welding is commonly used for large structures and pipelines.
If you’re unsure of the type of welding required for the job, it’s a good idea to ask the hiring manager when they call to set up the interview. Asking for this detail gives you the opportunity to practice your skills and knowledge before it’s time to head to the interview.
In addition to a welding test, your interviewer will likely ask you to answer several questions about yourself, the role you’re applying for and the nature of the work you’ll be doing. Here are some common questions you can anticipate hearing in your welding interview. Practice composing your answers to these and other questions, so you’ll be prepared to answer with confidence during your interview.
At the end of the interview, you may be asked if you have any questions. It’s always a good idea to come prepared with two or three questions. This demonstrates your commitment and interest in the job position. You can ask questions about the position and the company or what the interviewer likes about working there—the answer may give you valuable insight into the company’s culture. With the right amount of preparation and practice, you can set yourself up for success.
Are you an Apex student who is interested in job placement assistance, such as help with your resume? Our job placement team is here to help! Reach out to us today—we’re happy to support you.
*Apex Technical School and its instructors are licensed by the State of New York, New York State Education Department.
Disclaimer: Apex Technical School provides training for entry-level jobs. Not everything you may read about the industry is covered in our training programs.
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