Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Flat Sawn • Grain Filler • Inlay

Tongue and Groove

Term from Furniture Making industry explained for recruiters

Tongue and Groove is a traditional woodworking method where one piece of wood has a projecting ridge (the tongue) that fits perfectly into a matching groove in another piece of wood. This technique is commonly used in furniture making, flooring, and cabinetry to join pieces of wood together seamlessly. Think of it like puzzle pieces that fit together perfectly. When furniture makers mention this on their resume, it shows they know how to create strong, professional-looking joints without visible screws or nails.

Examples in Resumes

Created custom cabinets using Tongue and Groove construction methods

Designed and built hardwood flooring with Tongue and Groove joints

Specialized in T&G furniture assembly techniques

Manufactured paneling using Tongue & Groove joining methods

Typical job title: "Furniture Makers"

Also try searching for:

Cabinet Maker Woodworker Carpenter Custom Furniture Maker Joiner Wood Craftsman Furniture Builder

Where to Find Furniture Makers

Professional Organizations

Online Communities

Job Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you decide when to use tongue and groove versus other joinery methods?

Expected Answer: An experienced furniture maker should explain how they consider factors like wood type, furniture use, moisture exposure, and structural requirements. They should mention alternatives like dovetails or mortise and tenon joints, and explain the pros and cons of each.

Q: How do you handle large-scale tongue and groove projects efficiently?

Expected Answer: Should discuss project planning, proper tool setup, batch processing techniques, quality control methods, and how they organize workflow to maintain consistency across many pieces.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are common problems with tongue and groove joints and how do you prevent them?

Expected Answer: Should mention issues like improper fit, wood expansion, tool maintenance, and describe preventive measures like proper measuring, wood acclimation, and regular tool calibration.

Q: Explain your process for creating tongue and groove joints from start to finish.

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe wood preparation, measuring, cutting sequence, tool setup, and quality checking steps in a clear, organized way.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What safety precautions do you take when making tongue and groove joints?

Expected Answer: Should discuss basic tool safety, proper use of push blocks, dust collection, eye protection, and maintaining a clean work area.

Q: What tools are used for creating tongue and groove joints?

Expected Answer: Should be able to list basic tools like router tables, table saws, specialized bit sets, measuring tools, and explain their basic use.