Sample Interview Questions in Interior Design

Interview questions for interior design positions vary tremendously. Potential employers may ask you to name your favorite style is, or interior designer. Reading design magazines and texts will help you become informed. You may have been reading House Beautiful for years and already have a clear notion of whose style you most relate to. Keep in mind, though, the designer interviewing you most likely has a distinct style of their own and will be more inclined to hire those whose design aesthetic aligns with theirs. Designers are not looking for new talent to supersede their own. They want an individual who understands and relates to their taste. Do some homework so you're able to comment on some of their key projects and the aspects of their work you like. Not only will you stroke their ego, but at the same time prove that you keep abreast of industry publications.

Questions from a residential interior design firm

Q. Tell me about your education, experience and background.

A. Be brief but interesting. If you don't have formal interior design schooling to your credit, assure them with reasons why you are right for the job in other ways, such as the studio art classes you took that gave you an understanding of color and how it interacts with light. Tell the interviewer aspects of your background or work experience that will set you apart and make them remember you.

Q. What are your strengths and weaknesses?

A. Good skills to highlight are anything that will add value to the firm. Drafting and artistic talent, good people and communication skills, and working well on a team are all important in the field of design. Be honest about your flaws, everyone has them. Admit what you are most challenged by, within reason. Don't let on you are a terrible procrastinator, but do say you can get nervous in presentations.

Q. What are your expectations of this position?

A. Increasing knowledge and honing skills are always good answers. Don't talk about rising through the ranks and becoming the head designer. Stay focused on the job opening at hand. Also, never talk about compensation.

Q. How would you describe your personal interior design style?

A. Be honest, but also remember that they are not looking for candidates with wildly different taste than that for which the company is known. If you are interviewing at a firm that specializes in home restorations and the use of antiques, you can mention that you appreciate modern styling, but definitely emphasize that you are attracted to the same sensibility the company espouses.After your inquisition, the interviewer will likely ask if you have any questions of him or her. Have at least one question prepared so it looks like you are engaged in the dialogue.