Learning Blog
Interview Tips for Cleaning Job Positions
Written by Lizzie Learn
On 11th Feb 2015
Generic Questions You May Face at an Interview for a Cleaning Job
It's a good idea to have an understanding of the generic questions you may face. Although they seem simple before the interview, going in unprepared can actually leave you stuttering. Always remember, if you find yourself struggling to grasp the right words when a question is asked, ask the interviewer to repeat it so you can buy yourself a little time.
Here are some of the generic questions you may be asked, and how you might want to consider answering them:
- What made you want to become a cleaner?: This is probably the worst question you're going to face, so if you nail it, you've won half the interviewing battle. Work through it by talking about how you have a keen eye for detail, you enjoy working in an environment that requires you to be meticulous, and you thrive on following instructions.
- Why are you better than the other candidates we'll see?: Okay, so this is fairly awkward too. However, you can work through it without sounding too arrogant. State that you can't speak for the other candidates' dedication, but you know that yours is strong and you are keen to bring that to your prospective employer's working environment.
- What are your strengths and what are your weaknesses?: Again, this is one of those seriously awkward questions. The urge to state that you don't have any weaknesses, or to say something cheesy like "My weakness is that I work to hard" will probably kick in. However, neither of these options will impress your future employer, so ditch them immediately. Instead, play up those strengths and inject a light-hearted weakness. For example, "My old boss told me that I am probably a bit too chatty" or "I take criticism a little badly, but then I guess we all do!"
- Why do you want to leave your current job?: This one is pretty close to the dreaded "What did you least like about your last job". Just be honest, but avoid the temptation to blame your own misgivings on your former boss or colleagues. It looks sloppy.
Interview Questions that are Relevant to Working as a Cleaner
Of course, there are some interview questions that directly pertain to being a cleaner. When answering them, there are some key details you should bear in mind. However, resist the temptation to speak generically, as no interviewer wants to see a candidate who blatantly copies answers from websites and trots them out:- Are you trustworthy enough to work around other peoples' property? Here, you quite clearly need to highlight that you are. Talk about a client's right to privacy, and try to use an example of how you've been trustworthy with the property of others in the past.
- What are the three most important cleaning duties you can think of? If you have experience as a cleaner, you should already know this. Otherwise, focus on hygiene, reducing the risk of accidents for yourself and those around you, and always exceeding a client's expectations in terms of cleanliness. Try to focus on customer service throughout.
- How would you approach task 'x'? A prospective employer may present you with one task more often than others. For example, if you're working in an office, you might be asked how you would clean an elevator, or how you would clean around computer equipment. There are dozens of scenarios available here, so think ahead and consider the company interviewing you and the possible situations they could present you with.
- How would you deal with a colleague falling ill during a shift? The chances are, this is going to happen. When faced with this question, discuss how you're prepared to work as a team member who supports others when they're unable to fulfill their duties due to illness and personal circumstances beyond their control.
Presenting Yourself for a Cleaning Interview
If there is any interview you don't want to turn up to looking unclean, it is a cleaning interview. After all, your job is all about presentation. Make sure you put your best foot forward. Try to wear a suit jacket, and other smart items. When it comes to make-up and hair, keep it simple and tidy. Don't go overboard with aftershave or perfume, and definitely do not smoke just before the interview. You may also want to consider arriving a little early. Why? Because doing this shows that you are punctual, and that you are keen to snag the position. With a little investment in preparation, your cleaning interview should lead to employment success.Learn with confidence...
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