- Can you tell us a bit about yourself and the experience you have within this department of aged care? …
- What characteristics do you think are needed for those who work in elderly care? …
- What are your strengths and weaknesses?
The key to a successful caregiver job interview is preparation. Well-prepared candidates have greater confidence and can answer caregiver interview questions more accurately.
Knowing elderly care home interview questions before you go to an interview is beneficial in your preparation. It will help you focus on what’s important and get you thinking in the right direction.
There are also two significant types of interview questions. Do you know the difference and how to answer them appropriately?
At Stowell Associates, each caregiver applicant undergoes a thorough interview process. We ask each person a series of behavior- and situation-based questions to see if they possess the qualities of a professional caregiver. We put together a few of the top questions we ask potential caregivers when they come for an interview.
Keep reading to gain insight into the types of interview questions and the most common interview questions for in-home caregivers.
CAREGIVER Interview Questions & ANSWERS! (How to PASS a CAREGIVER Interview!)
Wear comfortable but smart clothing, arrive on time, be polite and look the interviewer in the eye.
3. What would you do if you were with a resident and they had a fall?
Teamwork is a very important aspect of working in aged care. Think of a specific example where you have been able to work collaboratively and have been able to communicate effectively with colleagues. Being able to demonstrate that you are comfortable talking to a wide range of people could also be an advantage here.
5. Can you give an example of a time you have successfully worked in a team?
Last year, the Australian aged care sector adopted a new set of quality and safety standards that were developed around the concept of ‘person-centered care’. Explain that person-centered care is respectful of and responsive to the preferences, needs and values of the person you are caring for. This document provides more information.
Tell me about your ability to work under pressure?
Answer tips:
Here’s where the ability to perform under fire comes into play. And, if possible, give an example that is relatable to the type of position that you are applying for.
The ideal way to respond to this question is to provide examples and situations of how you have handled stress in your previous jobs. In this way, the interviewer can establish a clear picture of how well you are likely to react when the going gets tough.
Pro tip: make sure you are not referencing a time when your lack of organization or communication put you in a “self induced” stressful scenario. This is to say, don’t share a story about how your procrastiation created a situation where you had to finish a project quickly.
Answer samples
Two Types of Interview Questions
During an interview, you’ll encounter two types of questions: behavioral and traditional. You should prepare for both questions, paying special attention to past work experiences that will help you answer behavioral questions. Behavioral interviewing tends to increase the chances an employer will hire a competent, responsible employee.
Here’s a quick look at the differences between traditional and behavioral interview questions.
Traditional Interview Questions
Traditional interview questions focus on what you did in a previous role and your current qualifications. These types of questions will be more generic and are usually straight forward.
Here are the top traditional interview questions we ask caregivers:
One of the top questions to ask when interviewing a caregiver for an elderly in-home care position is about your enjoyment as a caregiver. If you enjoy being a caregiver, your answer will come easily. If you dislike your work and see caregiving as a paycheck instead of a worthwhile vocation, your answer won’t be sincere (and home care employers will pick up on that sentiment).
When answering the question above, an employer is looking for more than “I like helping the elderly” or “I like the salary.” Dig deep into the personal motivation that drives you as a caregiver. Think of an impactful personal story or share a first-hand experience about why your love being a caregiver.
To answer this question, you need to be self-aware and confident about your unique strengths.
Are you punctual? Are you eager to improve in areas of weakness, always seeking out learning opportunities? Do you learn from mistakes and strive to improve when similar situations arise? Can you build trust quickly with clients? Are you a team player who’s willing to step in (e.g., filling gaps in the schedule)?
This traditional question allows you to put your best foot forward and make a positive impression on the interviewer.
FAQ
How do you prepare for an aged care interview?
- The job application process is an exciting part of the journey to achieve your career goals. …
- Keep it professional. …
- Customise your resume. …
- Highlight how great you are. …
- References. …
- Know exactly what you’re applying for. …
- Understand your prospective employer. …
- Plan the day.
What are your strengths in aged care?
- What Are Your Weaknesses? …
- Why Should We Hire You? …
- Why Do You Want to Work Here? …
- What Are Your Goals? …
- Why Did You Leave (or Why Are You Leaving) Your Job? …
- When Were You Most Satisfied in Your Job? …
- What Can You Do for Us That Other Candidates Can’t?
How do you introduce yourself in aged care interview?
- You need to have good communication and listening skills. …
- You need to be an adept multi-tasker. …
- You need to be responsive and flexible. …
- You need to be physically fit. …
- You need to be respectful and professional. …
- Most of all, you need to be supportive and caring.
