Success Strategies - Care & Support Interviews

Starting a career in care is a rewarding experience with very attractive prospects. On top of making a positive impact in the community, you’ll have several opportunities for growth and development. It all starts with applying for a job and showcasing the very best you during the recruitment process.?

When you first walk into an interview, the employers will want to get to know you. They’ll be looking for signs that you have the qualities they’re looking for and whether your motivations align with the company goals.?

We’re going to look at how you can send the right signals and craft a strategy to make your next care interview a successful one.?

Making a Positive Impression?

The things you say in an interview are crucial to whether or not you succeed, but it’s not the only factor you need to consider. Your expressions, tone and body language all send a message too, and it all starts with how you present yourself.?

What to Wear

Smart clothing tends to be the safest option when choosing your outfit for an interview. You want to look presentable and smart, so don’t turn up in a tracksuit and trainers. Even if the environment is casual, it’s always better to be overdressed than underdressed. Your clothes should be clean and ironed and your hair should be neat and professional. Feeling both? clean and comfortable as you enter an interview can help boost your confidence, too.?

Sending the Right Signals?

One of the most important tips we can provide is don’t forget to smile. A smile can show that you’re open, warm and approachable, as well as showing you’re relaxed and happy to be there. This alone can leave the interviewer with a good impression.?

Other signals are sent via body language. During the interview, try not to fidget too much or get distracted by the things around you. You should sit still, upright and comfortable so that you can focus on the questions being asked. We’d advise you avoid crossing your arms or hunching over, as this could make it harder for the interviewer to connect with you.?

Another important aspect of positive body language is eye contact. If you are being interviewed by a single individual, it’s often okay to look away once in a while if the eye contact feels a little too intense. However, if there’s two interviewers, ensure that you look between the two of them, and address both people when you answer the questions.?

When you’re structuring answers, oftentimes it can tumble out too quickly. We advise you practice speaking slowly and with confidence, so that you can deliver the information you need precisely and professionally in a calm manner.?

Showing your Interest?

Before you sit down for an interview, it’s imperative that you research the company, the role and the service. You could mention something positive you’ve experienced whilst walking to the interview room, or congratulate them on a recent award or successful campaign. You should always look for opportunities to showcase how interested in the role and company you are. It’s always good practice to thank them for their time once the interview is over too, as this shows you’re serious about the position.?

Another top tip regarding showing interest is taking an opportunity at the end of the interview to ask your own questions. You could ask about the team structure, or the interviewer’s favourite thing about the company. You’ll gain useful insight into the company atmosphere and how they measure success, as well as showing your interest in the role.?

Demonstrating Skills and Experience

We all know that the main part of an interview involves you answering questions. You can find out more about the common questions often asked in care interviews here. For now though, we’re going to give you some tips that will help you best demonstrate your experience.?

Taking a Moment

Many of us have experienced a blank mind after being asked a question in an interview, especially a question you weren’t prepared for. Rehearsing potential answers ahead of time can help but it’s always important to give yourself a moment to think before you speak so that your answers are more structured. If the interviewer has provided you with a drink, you could take a sip to give yourself some time. Alternatively, if you’re really drawing a blank and you feel the silence has gone on for too long, calmly and politely ask the interviewer if you can return to the question later.?

Structuring your Answers

One way to boost your confidence when answering interview questions is to stick to a structure for each answer. We recommend using a method known as STAR - situation, task, action and result.?

A tip to show that you’ve been listening is to use the same keywords in your answer. If they ask you to talk about a time where you responded to an emergency situation, use the words respond and emergency within the first sentence.?

The second sentence should explain the situation. If it was a situation you experienced at a previous role, mention the company and the position you were in at the time. You should then follow this up by explaining what happened (the task) and what you did to help resolve the problem (the action).?

Throughout your explanation, you should include key skills and attributes that you used; for example, quick thinking, staying calm and following procedures. Finish your answer by outlining the positive outcome for those involved, and what you learned from this experience (the result).

Points to Focus On?

It’s imperative to have the care and support role’s job description in the back of your mind throughout the interview process so that you can focus on what the recruiter is looking for specifically. While making a good impression and showing off your skills is important, framing your answers with the role in mind can really help.?

When it’s your turn to ask questions, don’t be shy. Focus on what you can do for them, and how they can help and support you achieve your goals. Let your enthusiasm shine through and they’ll know you’re serious about the role.?

If you’re offered an opportunity to look around the home or service, we advise you take it. You can use the opportunity to demonstrate how you can positively interact with colleagues and residents while you do so, and this will leave an incredible impression with the interviewer.?

Good Luck!

If you utilize these tips, you’re sure to make a lasting, positive impression at your next care and support role interview. If you’re nervous, remember that this meeting is an opportunity to find out if the company is a right fit for you, too.???

Are you ready to embark on a fulfilling journey as a care and support worker??

The SKA Group Ltd is your gateway to meaningful opportunities within the support field. Join our dedicated team and become a part of a community committed to making a positive impact on people’s lives. Get in touch today to put our interview tips to the test and start making a difference.