Don’t just say that you like the … 3. Consider how old you are, and adjust your answer accordingly. I like the excitement of the job. I think it's really cool. " A firefighter must stay fit – firefighters exercise daily. (This is one of the basic entry-level firefighter … Be sure to try your clothes on at least 3-5 days prior to the interview so that you have time to get ill-fitting items tailored or replace clothing that is stained or outdated. Why should we hire you? Kaila Kea is a career coach and former contributor to the ZipRecruiter blog. However, we are both committed to working around my schedule and I am confident that we can find ways to make the most of my time off.". If some experience with firefighters or some article or story inspired you, relate it briefly. Also, firefighting is a people-oriented profession, so think about how you wish to impact the lives of others. Common interview questions and answers for firefighters 2. Wear minimal jewelry and avoid flashy prints or colors. 1:: Why do you want to work in firefighting department? Keep in mind that who YOU ARE is as important as whom we expect YOU to be. This is one of the toughest questions to answer without sounding like a Clone. This means that you could be answering questions posed by your potential colleagues and manager, so it is important to put your best foot forward. One of the most demanding, challenging, and fulfilling careers is that of a firefighter. Are you qualified? Do not be overly dramatic or emotional in your response, although a bit of excitement it in line. Top 6 Fire Service Application Turnoffs! Interviewers love this question! When did you decide on this career? I believe that when people feel safe in their communities, they are more inclined to be kind to one another – I am excited about the idea of being a part of that! *Indeed provides this information as a courtesy to users of this site. Ability to establish and maintain effective work relationships with co-workers and associates. While a firefighter may stay calm under the pressure of fighting a four-alarm fire, taking the oral interview to become fire captain can make anyone sweat. Let's break this down. State specific strategies you would use to take action. I think it is important to be active in the political process so lawmakers have the information they need to make decisions about how to fund fire services.". Irregular schedules can be taxing on a family and can make managing home life stressful. How often do you call out sick? From a candidate: I have thought long and hard about the answer to “why do you want to be a firefighter”. We have compiled tips that will help you ace your firefighter interview, including what to wear, what employers are seeking, and the types of questions you should be prepared to answer. What Are Analytical Skills and Why Are They Important in Your Job? That inspired me to explore the field further. A fire captain promotional examination typically consists of a written test and the oral interview. Related Topics: Job Search, Spotlight, Candidate, Interview. The good answer: I would promptly confront the colleague, referencing what we have learned in training about the dangers of drinking alcohol in the firehouse and/or the fireground. Wear a suit that fits well, avoid using strong perfumes or colognes, and make sure that your hair is neatly styled. I have always appreciated and admired those who put their lives on the line to protect our communities. … Common interview questions and answers for firefighters 1. If you have reached this stage of the selection process then the Fire Service are interested in employing you and they want to meet you face to face in order to see what you are like as a person, and also whether you really do have the skills required to become a firefighter. You find everything they do and 'could' do exciting, you're the type of person who 'loves' change and wants to be a part of a modern Service. We want to hire you, not some clone who just memorized the same answers … Where do you see yourself in 5, 10, 15 and 20 years? A good firefighter possesses many valuable traits, including dedication, cooperation, flexibility, physical fitness, integrity and problem-solving skills. The good answer: In my last role as a Public Safety Coordinator, I worked with 8 team members to design an interactive Safety Training Obstacle Course to illustrate safety strategies to visiting high school students. This question explores the candidate's interest in the future of the profession, and it gives insight into the job seeker's willingness to adapt as necessary. This question explores whether candidates are prepared to take direction immediately and without question in an emergency -- even if they don't understand the reasoning. Reply: This is … The good answer: I am a recent graduate who has always had a passion for public safety. I have always admired the firefighters and first responders who ran in to help the people who were trapped. Firefighters are often faced with tough decisions and a sturdy personal code of ethics will ensure that they make decisions based on the good of the community instead of their own personal interests. Think about the job requirements and what excites and motivates you about getting to do that every day. I am also thrilled about improving processes that impact people and working alongside this team of firefighters who are equally devoted to this. (Most people have this job for years, but there is an age limit, typically 30, or 35 years of age–depending on the country of your application. While it is best to keep it professional, it is also okay to let your personality … Answer: saving human life is the primary goal. I’m having a tough time putting it into words. you'll have to face an oral interview board as a firefighter. What to look for in an answer: "Before I completed my application, I discussed the irregular schedule with my spouse. Responding to emergency situations requires passion and a dedication. Ability to react calmly and quickly in emergency situations. This line of work also requires passion for the community and willingness to support fellow firefighters. I'm having a tough time putting it into words. Learn more: ZipRecruiter, Inc. © All Rights Reserved Worldwide, Email & Phishing Scams | How to Detect and Avoid Them, Chat & Video Messaging Interview Scams | How to Detect and Avoid Them, Identity Theft | How to Protect Yourself and Avoid Scams, Shipping & Money Laundering Scams | How to Detect and Avoid Them, Work From Home Scams | How to Detect and Avoid Them. I became certified in emergency management through our local community college and I went on to work as an EMT for two years. Use this question to learn how the candidate became interested in a career in firefighting. Give your honest reasons. It's extremely effective, but not enough people know about it. I would also remind them about how it could impair the safety of our fellow firefighters and community members. We explained the problem to the students to demonstrate that sometimes things do not go as planned, so having an alternative is important – just like on the real fireground. I had dreams of becoming an actor. Tell me about yourself. I completed field work in my last role without incident and am prepared to do the same in this role. From your initial training to your first experience on the job, you will be tested every step of the way. What inspired you to become a firefighter? However, situations can crop up from time to time where following orders is not necessarily appropriate. I went to drama school and made friends from all sorts of backgrounds and of all ages. Be sure to answer each part of the question and, if you get confused, do not hesitate to ask for the question to be repeated. I wasn't driving, but my friend (let’s call him Andrew) was. This might be an opportunity to find new and safer ways to fight fires.". We planned to have each of the students complete the Safety Training Obstacle Course, but the plan backfired! How to answer: Why do you want to be a firefighter? Call (877) 252-1062 (6am - 6pm PST) or Contact Us. I enjoy being actively involved in the community. Firefighting can be an emotionally and physically demanding career, but an extremely rewarding one for the right candidate. What to look for in an answer: "I think technology is going to have a big impact on firefighting in the next five years, especially since there are developments in artificial intelligence. What would you consider your greatest failure? What is the job of a firefighter? I loved that job, but I wanted to be more involved. Fire Captain Interview Tips. She is based in Hampton, Virginia. What to look for in an answer: "A firefighter provided CPR and first-aid certification training to students during my senior year in high school. Comfort is key! This would be the … 1. It may not be as straight forward as this, but this will be information the panel will want to know. The good answer: Firefighting is about people, processes, and safety – I greatly enjoy working with all of these. Why Do you Want to be a firefighter? Any well-thought-out response shows an interest in the field and an understanding of the challenges that firefighters face. Why do you want to be a firefighter? Why do you want to work for this department/district? My biggest desire to be a firefighter is because I love the way the department functions first as a family, then as a job. Every industry is being impacted by the political landscape, the economy and advances in technology. Use this question to learn how the candidate became interested in a career in firefighting. However, fostering safety throughout the community and employing strategies to prevent incidents is quite rewarding. While fire prevention and public education are critical components of the role. For example, speak about your desire to help others and keep the community safe. Job Interview Tips for High School Students, Why Hiring Managers Aren’t Responding to You After Job Interviews. Why do you want to work in this industry? However, I am looking for a new challenge and am excited about using what I have learned in my current role to become an asset to your team of firefighters. That means we have to do more with less, which could impact the service that we provide. Any personal story for why you care about a topic or are fascinated by a topic will make a good answer for why you chose this job you’re interviewing for. I’ve had way too many jobs that were just corporate ladder climbers and backstabbers. When responding to the interview question, why do you want to be a firefighter, make sure you reference the PQAs and how you are able to match them. You made a difference in my life. Firefighting can be an emotionally and physically demanding career, but an extremely rewarding one for the right candidate. Interviewers are also looking for a strong moral compass. Some are specifically geared towards firefighting, while others are more general. I have spent the past 3 years completing my degree and working for the Department of Health, where I excelled in teaching local community members about public safety strategies and developing training materials for local firehouses. What education or training have you had that makes you fit for this profession? This question demonstrates that the job seeker has reflected on all of a firefighter's responsibilities and plans to make a positive contribution to these areas. What to look for in an answer: "From what I have seen in the news, budgets for fire services keep getting cut. Many of the questions you are asked during a firefighter interview will be situational. Here are 5 questions that you may be asked during your interview and (good) answers for each one. What to look for in an answer: "When we are in the middle of battling a fire, I understand that my safety depends on following orders, and the team captain is in charge of the situation. If you want to become a firefighter, or are already a firefighter but are ready for promotion, you are in exactly the right place! This question is intended to confirm that the job seeker has given some thought to managing a non-traditional work schedule and has the support of friends and family. Why do you want to become a firefighter? Your response lays the foundation for the rest of the interview, so be sure to provide an answer that is concise and specific. What to look for in an answer: "The events of September 11 made a big impression on me as a child. Latest Articles. Visit our Help Center for answers to common questions or contact us directly. So, why do you want to be a firefighter? Understanding whether the job seeker has invested time and effort in any of these programs demonstrates the candidate's level of commitment to this career path. We realize that there will be times that I am going to miss family events. Therefore, … Employers want to be certain that they are hiring someone who will make ethical choices, even when it is difficult to do so. You want to draw more attention to your words than your outfit or accessories. Firefighting involves work that can be dangerous and laborious, so employers want to be sure that they are hiring a candidate who truly wants to get the job done. Highlight the opportunities you are excited about having by taking on a new role. Aim for clothing and footwear that are both professional and comfortable. A firefighter candidate should be well-groomed for the interview. The reasons why I want to become a firefighter are: I really like to help people- I work now as an EMT and I really enjoy somebody holding my hand and looking me in the eye and saying thank you. No one wants to die. Your privacy is our priority. Specifically, this question looks at whether candidates will speak up against illegal or unethical practices. Why do you want to pursue your career in firefighting? Do you think if I push the “family” aspect will I get max points for that question? In preparation for your next interview consider this — you should already know most of the questions you'll be asked. What are some of your personal goals? Example: "I believe that a firefighter's most important quality is dedication. My interest really piqued in firefighting however after I witnessed a post-crash rescue. Those who plan a long-term career as a firefighter must be prepared to adapt. I have made it my personal goal to be of service to my community, and being a firefighter is the best way to meet that goal.". Bad answer: "I like firefighting. Posted by Deputy Chief Steve Prziborowski on February 5th, 2011 That is a question that is commonly asked during an oral interview, and even during fire station visits or discussions with others when they find out your career aspirations. I would then give the colleague an opportunity to tell the fire chief about the incident, warning him or her that if they do not consult the chief, I will be obligated to do so myself to prevent an incident and ensure the safety of all involved. Be mindful of the forecast on the day of your interview and bring items, such as a raincoat or light sweater, to help you adjust to a change in weather. We in the Armed Forces want you to live and work for the country. The good answer: During the past 3 years, I have learned a lot in my current job. Employers want to know that you prioritize these qualities. That's when I decided to pursue a career as a firefighter.". When you decided that you wanted to be a company officer, you announced that you were capable of providing safe guidance for the firefighters entrusted to your company. Tell us about yourself. According to Firehouse, passion is a leading characteristic that interviewers seek in a firefighter candidate. Please don’t give those pseudo patriotic answers like, “I want to die for the country”. 2. What the hiring manager really wants to know is why you’re the right person for this job and why they should choose you over someone else. Now that you have seen a few reasons you can begin the exercise of self-evaluation to determine if you have what it takes. This is a question I can almost guarantee you will get in some form. Please note that we are not your career or legal advisor, and none of the information provided herein guarantees a job offer. However, if a person in authority directed me to do something illegal, I wouldn't obey that order.". This means a lot to me. In the field, following orders can mean the difference between life and death. My biggest desire to be a firefighter is because I love the way the department functions first as a family, then as a job. For example, one of the firefighter PQAs is Being open to change within the Fire Service. What to look for in an answer: "One of our community outreach programs offers free smoke detectors. Why do you want to be a firefighter? The 3 interview mistakes you will make every time. ABOUT THE FIREFIGHTER INTERVIEW. Ability to work with a team, follow orders without fail, bravery, quick thinking and acting, calmness in emergency are all essential qualities. Again, companies want to hire people who are passionate about the job, so you should have a great answer about why you want the position. If it involves telling a story you need to rework your answer! Remember, hit all the 'basic' points..but the interviewers are looking for the next generation of potential leaders..so don't be afraid to stand out and be different. You probably should apply elsewhere.) To resolve this problem, we worked together to devise an alternate plan, which included a Q&A period and a fireground simulation. (And if you don't? Whatever you choose, try to end your answer by showing you’re still interested in this career and the work that you do. `` Before I completed field work in firefighting that were just corporate ladder climbers and backstabbers free! Well, avoid using this as an opportunity to find new and ways. Incidents is quite rewarding in line Being open to change within the fire service question... You like the … Tell me about yourself career or legal advisor, and is! I greatly enjoy working with all of these means we have to navigate managing home life.! Search, Spotlight, candidate, interview hiring Managers Aren ’ t just say you! Are 5 questions that contain several parts can be tricky, but not enough people know it...: this is … why do you want to work in firefighting department oral interview questions that several. The right candidate question looks at whether candidates will speak up against illegal unethical! 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