Care Benefits for Veterans and Surviving Spouses
Ample preparation for your caregiver interview can ease the stress of the process for you as well as for the client and their family. These seven tips can help you remain poised during your interview and distinguish you as a strong candidate.
1. Prepare a list of questions
Be prepared to ask the client and their family questions about the position as well as about the client. Questions about their specific situation can help determine if you can provide the necessary services while also building a relationship with the client. The answers to these questions can also help you be prepared if you are hired, as you will already have an understanding of the care needs and the client’s individuality.
2. Choose appropriate attire
Don’t walk into your interview looking like you just rolled out of bed, but don’t walk in ridiculously overdressed either. While it’s better to be overdressed than underdressed, being too overdressed can make the family feel uncomfortable and they may wonder about your willingness to provide certain services. If you’re unsure of your outfit choice, get a second opinion from someone who understands the circumstances.
Go light on makeup and scents as these can be turnoffs. It is best to avoid scented products as some individuals may be sensitive to certain scents. In order to refrain from becoming a distraction, makeup should be kept minimal and natural looking.
3. Be prepared to answer questions
The client and their family will likely have a number of questions about your experience and abilities as a caregiver. If this is their first care experience, you may be the first caregiver they have interviewed. It is important that you are able to answer any and all questions they may have. Brainstorming ahead of time about the type of questions they may ask can help you prepare to answer them.
4. Know your services
Go into your interview knowing what services you are willing and able to provide for the client. Make sure you inform the family of any services you are not willing or able to provide, especially if they mention requiring a type of care you cannot provide due to certification requirements.
5. Prepare a reference sheet
Prepare a reference sheet including contact information for previous employers or managers, especially those of similar jobs. Make sure all references listed are willing to speak on your behalf. Contacting your references can give the client and their family a better understanding of how you regularly function in the workplace. This will reinforce the accuracy of your claims and reassure the family that they can place their trust in you.
6. Know your availability
Go into the interview knowing when you are available to provide care. If you know you will be unable to visit during times the client requires care, inform the family right away. This will help the family determine if your availability matches their needs and decrease tension in the scheduling process down the road.
7. Prepare a resume
Preparing a resume can show the client and their family your experience in the field and how it relates to their situation. It can also keep you fresh in their minds as a candidate as they can refer to your resume long after the interview. If you don’t have much experience as a caregiver, prepare a resume with your experience in other fields, highlighting the aspects that relate to the duties of a caregiver.
Preparation for your interview as a caregiver can have a big impact on the hiring decision. Following these tips can help you put your best foot forward and stand out from other candidates.
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