​If you’re stepping into an interview for a contract IT Project Management role, chances are the client has tried to fill the position themselves and come up short. That’s where you come in, and working closely with a recruiter like me can help.

Every time a PM is heading into an interview, I provide a consistent list of hints and tips and it’s all about shifting your mindset. Here’s how to approach it…

1.) Get clear on expectations.

Ask what success looks like.

“What do you want to have achieved by the end of this contract? Both as a team and from me personally?”

This shows you’re thinking about outcomes, not just tasks or what the day-to-day looks like, you’re asking about impact. It also gives you a clear benchmark to aim for and get clarity on what they need – which means you can tailor your answers accordingly

2.) Stage of current the projects.

What’s been done, what’s going well and what needs improved.

“What stage is the project currently at, and where do you see me adding value?”

Are you picking up something in flight, rescuing a project that’s in red status, or starting something from scratch?

This helps you show that you’re a safe pair of hands who is prepared to hit the ground running. This also gives you a chance to talk about similar experiences. If they’re mid-migration and you're excellent at managing vendors during the project, tell them. The more specific you are, the easier it is for them to picture you in the role.

3.)  Get ahead of the challenges.

No project runs perfectly. Ask what the project risks and issues are? Sometimes the blockers are technical, sometimes it’s people, sometimes it’s legacy systems held together with duct tape and a bit of hope.

“What challenges do you expect I’ll face in this role?”

This gives an opportunity to talk through similar challenges you’ve tackled before and how you’ve handled them. You’re not only showing awareness – you’re opening the door to talk about how you’ve tackled similar hurdles. It also shows resilience, a key trait for any good contract PM.

4.) If needed, use the STAR method

If you’re hit with competency-based questions, lean on the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) – it’s the tried-and-tested way to answer competency questions but remember to keep it conversational. Explain what you did and unpack why you did it. That’s what sets a strong PM apart.

If they ask about leading a tricky stakeholder group, don’t just say “I set up weekly meetings” – explain how that helped reduce confusion, built trust, and ultimately sped up delivery.

For more advice on using the star method, click here.

5.) Bring notes (and don’t be shy about using them)

Pre-prepare questions and key points – and write them down. There’s no shame in referring to your notes during an interview. It shows you’re organised and serious about the role. No one expects you to memorise everything.

It also gives you a chance to pause, collect your thoughts, and avoid walking out thinking, “Ah, I forgot to ask that.”

6.) Be clear about your interest

If you’re keen, say so.

Near the end of the interview, let them know you appreciate their time and that – based on what you’ve heard – you’d seriously consider taking the role if offered. It might sound simple, but it goes a long way in helping clients see who’s genuinely invested.

Just something simple like:
“Thanks for your time today – I really like the sound of the role and I’d be happy to support if it all works out.”

7.) Leave the rate talk to your recruiter

If you’re asked about rate, politely defer and say you’re happy for them to speak with your recruiter about that.

“I’d be happy for you to discuss the rate directly with my recruiter – they’re across everything and can make sure it all lines up properly.”

It keeps things straightforward and avoids awkward chat about numbers or underselling yourself. Let us do the heavy lifting.

8.)  And finally – call your recruiter

As soon as you’re out of the interview (or once you've had a minute to gather your thoughts), give us a call. The feedback you give helps us chase things up, manage the process better, and – if needed – line you up for other roles that might be a better fit.

Even if it wasn’t a perfect match, your thoughts help us match you more accurately going forward. That feedback helps us help you.

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At the end of the day, interviewing for contract roles is a different beast than permanent jobs.

Approach these interviews like you would a client meeting: be clear, be prepared, and show them how you solve problems. Clients are often moving fast and need someone who can get results quickly. They’re looking for someone who’ll get things moving. Show them that’s you.

Go in prepared, be direct, and show how you can be the solutions to their problem.

Want to know more about contract roles we’re working on or need a bit of coaching before your next interview? Give me a shout – I’m always happy to help.

You can reach me via email at ross.stevenson@vanrath.com or call (028) 9033 0250