PREDICTING INTERVIEW QUESTIONS:

There will often be a gentle, easy ‘warm-up’ question to help you settle in. Most employers will base at least some of their questions on the person specification document in their application pack.

Many employers will also set some questions that will help them to assess your character and alignment to their organisation’s culture.

1. Use the person specification to identify the key competencies for the role – questions are likely to be based around this

EXAMPLE:

1. Experienced in the use of person-centred approach as a planning tool for effective care delivery
2. Able to work independently, managing own workload with minimal supervision
3. Strong communication skills including some experience of managing difficult situation

CRITERIA:

Experienced in the use of person-centred approach as a planning tool

QUESTION:

“Can you give me an example of a time when you have used a person-centred approach to inform care planning for a demented service user?”

USE STAR TECHNIQUE

SITUATION – Set the context for the scenario

TASK – What is the job demand to address the situation

ACTION – What did you do

RESULT – What was the outcome as a result of the action you took

Using the STAR technique, answer ONE competency-based question from the following:

1. Give me an example of a time when you have used a social media channel to market a product or service
2. Give me an example of a time when you have worked unsupervised, managing your own workload with minimal supervision
3. Tell me about a time when you have demonstrated excellent communication skills and/or public speaking

MORE COMMON QUESTIONS:

“What is it about our organisation that made you want to apply for a job here?”

“What are your greatest strengths?”

“Where do you see yourself in your career in five years’ time?”

“Why did you apply for this job?”

“What are your weaknesses?”

Research the Employer

• Most companies will have a website that you can look at and read about them. Look out for interesting things about them that will demonstrate you’ve really done your homework

• Follow them on their socials. Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn are all brilliant for finding out all about an organisation, any exciting projects they’re currently working on and any news they are sharing

• Look out for information that will tell you more about their ethics. This will often be in the “ABOUT US” section of their website, as either a Mission Statement or Visions and Values.

Ask the Right Questions

Don’t fall for the temptation to say “you have said it all during our discussion” this doesn’t show creativity or interest in the role. But also remember to ask the right question, keep it simple and relevant.

1. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT WORKING HERE?

• WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMONE TRYING TO START THEIR CAREER IN HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE?

• IF I’M SUCCESSFUL, WHAT WILL BE THE MOST IMPORTANT THING FOR ME TO LEARN IN THE FIRST 3 MONTHS?

Leave them on a high!