There is no doubt finding and securing your ideal job can be a stressful experience. As a candidate, you want to ask the right questions, put your best foot forward and get the information you need to make the best decision for your future.
As leaders in project management resourcing, we work with a wide range of candidates every day who are trying to do just that. Here we’ve compiled a list of the seven most common questions job seekers in mining, energy and infrastructure ask during the resourcing process, and the answers to each.
1. How do I match my experience with the position description?
This is one of the most common questions job seekers ask, and it should be because it’s one of the most important. Project Management roles in mining, energy and infrastructure typically attract a high volume of applicants.
Taking the time to match your experience to the specifics listed in the position description can really set your resume apart. Always be specific. If a role asks for ‘problem solving skills’ for example, provide details of how you managed a challenging situation around external stakeholders, an at-risk project, or economic conditions to display your skills and experience in this area. Simply stating you have strong problem solving skills is not enough.
Don’t make the common mistake of applying for multiple roles using the same version of your CV. Success can be as simple as tweaking a few sentences to show your skills and experience on a practical level.
2. Do Resource Consultants use LinkedIn to find candidates?
This question is also at the top of the list when it comes to things job seekers ask Resource Consultants. Do we use LinkedIn to find candidates when filling a role? The answer is a resounding yes. Most Resourcing specialists regard LinkedIn as a valuable source to identify high quality talent.
What does this mean for you? It means you should treat your LinkedIn profile as an online version of your resume. One that is available to be viewed 24/7. My biggest tip here is to ensure there is always synchronicity between the dates and job titles on both your resume and LinkedIn profile. Discrepancies raise red flags.
3. Can you describe the company culture and approach of the hiring manager?
Job seekers are not just concerned about making a strong impression with their resume. Cultural fit with their new company is also a primary concern and attraction for many. Those Resourcing Consultants who have a strong relationship with their client will be able to provide a good insight into both the company culture and management style of the hiring manager.
4. What is your relationship with the client?
This is another great question to ask your Resourcing Consultant. Again, look for their answer to reveal how well they understand the company, its culture and the role on offer. Ideally, you want to be engaged with someone who has a strong relationship with the company and who displays a deep knowledge of the organisational structure and what the employer is really looking for in terms of personality and skillset. The more they understand the more likely that are to know instinctively if you are the right fit for the role.
5. Is there a benefit to taking a regional or FIFO role?
With a large number of mining, energy and infrastructure roles based in rural and regional areas, questions around the value of a permanent move or choosing a FIFO roster are common. Higher salaries and faster career progression are just two of the advantages that can be gained from relocating.
Many companies will either relocate you or pay a remote location allowance for roles based in regional Australia. There are also typically less applicants for these roles, meaning you have a greater chance of securing a more senior role with greater responsibility and autonomy than in metropolitan areas.
Take a look at our recent blog dedicated to this topic if you are interested in a regional or rural move. Click here.
6. What are the current trends shaping this market?
This is an interesting question and one where the answer depends on timing and economic conditions. In many cases, candidates are really asking if the role and sector they are considering comes with good job security. It’s important to feel confident that your Resourcing Consultant understands the market and has a good grasp of the trends that are shaping the sector. Don’t be afraid to ask for their view on this issue.
7. Can I contact you with any future questions?
The answer here should always be “Yes, of course.” There are always questions that come to mind after hanging up the phone or walking out of an interview. You should feel comfortable contacting your Resourcing Consultant to uncover the answer. And if they don’t know, the good ones will hunt down an answer for you.
As Resourcing Consultants, our job is to create great matches between clients and candidates. The more questions we can answer and information we can provide you as a candidate about a role, the better informed you will be to decide if the role is the right fit for you.
13 Mar 2025