LEADERSHIP & SUPERVISION
How do you delegate tasks to your team?
I assess each worker’s strengths and assign tasks accordingly. I make sure assignments are clear, prioritize safety and efficiency, and always follow up to ensure quality.
What is your process for deep cleaning a classroom during break periods?
Remove all movable furniture, strip and wax floors if needed, sanitize all surfaces, clean vents and light fixtures, and reset the room.
How do you build an efficient shift schedule for your team?
I align tasks with peak facility usage times, factor in breaks, and cross-train staff to fill in when others are absent.
What safety protocols must be followed when handling chemicals?
Always read SDS sheets, wear required PPE, ensure proper ventilation, and store chemicals in labeled containers.
How do you train staff on equipment use?
I demonstrate usage, review manuals, have them operate under supervision, and check competency before unsupervised use.
Describe a time you resolved a conflict between two team members.
I addressed the issue privately with each individual, then facilitated a conversation to find common ground. I emphasized professionalism and reminded them of our shared responsibilities.
How do you prevent cross-contamination when cleaning bathrooms and classrooms?
Use color-coded cloths, separate mops/buckets, and always clean high-risk areas last to avoid transfer of bacteria.
What do you do if multiple workers call in sick?
I reassign tasks based on priorities, pull in floaters if available, and may step in to complete critical work myself.
How do you respond to a slip-and-fall incident?
Secure the area, assist the individual, report it immediately, and complete an incident form per university policy.
What is the maintenance routine for an auto-scrubber?
Empty and rinse tanks after each use, check squeegees and brushes, inspect battery levels, and report any malfunctions.
How do you ensure your team stays motivated during routine work?
I acknowledge hard work, rotate tasks to reduce monotony, and provide regular feedback. Recognition goes a long way in keeping morale high.
What’s the proper way to strip and refinish a VCT floor?
Sweep, apply stripper, agitate with a scrubber, remove residue, rinse thoroughly, and apply 3–4 coats of finish.
How do you track and ensure timely completion of tasks?
I use daily logs and visual walkthroughs to verify work. I also check off items in a shared task tracker.
What PPE is necessary for restroom cleaning?
Gloves, goggles, and sometimes aprons, depending on the product being used and exposure risk.
What do you do if a vacuum stops working during a shift?
Troubleshoot basic issues first—check for clogs or filter problems—then tag and report it for repair, using a backup if available.
What steps do you take to train a new BSW employee?
I provide hands-on demonstrations, explain procedures, ensure they understand EIU’s standards, and check in frequently during the onboarding period.
What are key steps for maintaining carpeted areas?
Daily vacuuming, prompt spot cleaning, periodic extraction, and keeping walk-off mats clean.
How do you balance urgent requests with routine responsibilities?
I assess urgency, temporarily reassign staff, and communicate delays in non-critical areas if needed.
How do you ensure your team follows safety protocols?
I provide ongoing training, monitor behavior during walkthroughs, and correct any unsafe practices immediately.
How do you handle equipment that’s consistently unreliable?
Document issues, report them to maintenance, and advocate for replacement if it's impacting productivity.
How do you handle underperformance in your crew?
I identify the cause—whether it's lack of training, motivation, or personal issues. Then I coach towards that.
How do you ensure your team maintains consistent quality in cleaning?
Perform random inspections, provide feedback, and retrain when needed. I use checklists and follow EIU’s quality standards.
How do you adjust team workflow during campus events?
I meet with event organizers in advance, allocate floaters for on-call coverage, and schedule pre- and post-event cleaning shifts.
What’s your procedure for reporting a chemical spill?
Evacuate if needed, contain the spill if safe, notify appropriate environmental health & safety personnel, and complete a report.
How do you schedule preventive maintenance?
I maintain a calendar, track usage hours, and coordinate with maintenance staff for regular servicing.