Tips for Carers when being interviewed by Employers
Prepare yourself appropriately with these Jobseeker interview tips. Your first meeting with a prospective employer is very important. You need to make a good impression so start out right.
- Get a good night’s rest. You do not want to attend the interview looking tired.
- Dress suitably. Anywhere between smart casual to conservative is appropriate. Be sure to be comfortable just in case you may need to interact briefly with the person/s you are caring for.
- Be punctual. This is often an indicator as to how punctual you would be if you are hired, so be sure to plan ahead for travel time.
- Make copies of all relevant documentation including identification, police check, resume, references and certificates, to pass on to the Employer.
- Anticipate the kinds of questions you are likely to be asked so you are confident in your answers.
Once you have arrived for the interview, be courteous and take an interest in your surroundings. Do not launch directly into interview mode but rather take your queues from the employer. Here are some questions you may be asked by the employer:
- Tell me about your previous positions and why they came to an end?
- How much experience do you have handling such a position?
- What would you do in the event of an emergency?
- Are you trained in first aid?
- How do you handle stressful situations?
- Do you have other responsibilities, for example your own children, and will it interfere with your work?
Be ready to give clear and concise answers. One of the most important Jobseeker interview tips is to remember to speak well about your previous employers; any negativity will reflect poorly on you not them.
As the newest addition to their business or family you will have to demonstrate a keen interest in the person/s you will care for and what role your employer expects you to play. Here are some sample questions and Jobseeker interview tips that will help you better understand the role you are applying for:
- Ask the name and age of the person/s you are to care for. Ask if you can meet them.
- Do they have special needs, illnesses like diabetes?
- What are their interests and hobbies?
- What is the protocol when it comes to care and, if required, discipline?
- Are there jobs they would require you to perform outside of caring, such as shopping and cleaning?
- What hours are you expected to work?
As you get into very specific details, it will be clear to the employer that you are coming in to assist them on their terms. The questions you ask matter a lot as the employer will be interested to know how much guidance you are willing to take from them and your level of interest, motivation and initiative in the position.
The last of the Jobseeker interview tips is to send an email or letter to the employer to thank them for the opportunity to talk to them about the position. Indicate your continued interest in the job and why you believe you would be the right choice.