Interview Flashcards
What sets you apart from other candidates?
I find so much happiness through helping others. I want to be there for others and support those in need. It’s a part of who I am. Others may have more experience or education however having compassion and a genuine passion for helping those in need alongside the skills i’ve learned through working with children and elderly could set me apart from other candidates.
Tell me about your previous experience and how it relates to this role.
My previous experience that would relate most to this job would be babysitting and my role at huron view as a resident care aide.
Caregiver situations
Kids with undiagnosed behavioural challenges
A child with sensory needs- particular cup, textures of food
Elderly residents with frontal lobe dementia, majority not mobile, MS, Alzheimers, amputees, down syndrome, PTSD
What motivated you to apply?
I was seeking a position where i could support those in need. I knew of respite care through a family friend(michelle hoggart) and it sparked interest however at the time I was worried i wasn’t qualified
Common challenges you faced while in a care position and how you handle them?
Disagreements- didn’t want to do something. I’d always be patient and try to ask why. If the reason isn’t very valid i encourage them to participate and give them the option to leave at anytime
Aggressive/resistent to care: remain calm, introduce myself, make small talk, ask permission, leave when asked but always check back
How do you ensure safety and well-being of clients
Maintain a healthy relationship with clients, have good communication, stay aware of surroundings at all times
Can you provide an example of a time you dealt with a difficult situation?
I had a sexually inappropriate and aggressive resident that i was doing a one-on-one with and there were times where this individual would touch me and grab me by the wrists hard. I maintained composure and said not to touch me and that It wasn’t okay for them to do that.
Maintain a safe distance
Leave them be in a safe space
What are your strengths?
I would say my greatest strength is that i’m always empathetic towards the people around me. For example, while working at huronview we’d often get a lot of new employees and i noticed often new employees would struggle transitioning into the team. Some of my coworkers would become frustrated because they aren’t aware of the teams dynamics and i remember how it felt to be in their position on my first day so i always make sure to introduce myself to anyone new and give them tips when needed and let them know they can come to me with questions.
What are your weaknesses?
I think my biggest weakness is struggling to say no. I often find myself taking on too much sometimes which leads to me feeling overwhelmed and drained. Last year, at huronview we had a lot of issues with people not showing up for shifts and nearly everyday we would be short staffed. I began picking up overtime to help however i took on too much and i was getting home from work at 11pm and starting again at 6:30am. Eventually i became overtired and i was highly emotional. I used that as an experience to learn from and now i’m aware of my limits and value the importance of sleep and self care.
What do you know about ASD?
Neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people interact, learn and behave. It’s viewed on a spectrum from low to moderate then high in terms of support needed. It’s very individualized and no two people are the same.
Why does this job interest you
I want to help those in need and being a direct support worker would give me the opportunity to help those in my community in need.
Have you ever worked with behavioural challenges
Yes both through babysitting and at huronview
Its definitely something you can always learn from. It’s challenging however when you are able to really dig deeper and understand why these behavioural challenges happen you can empathize with the individuals and you work through it
Why are you right for this job?
From a young age I was always so caring. I was always the first person to notice when someone wasn’t okay and i would be there for whoever was in need. I have a very big heart and compassion and empathy have always been traits i associated myself with. I developed a strong interest in mental health which lead to me going to university for psychology. From the knowledge ive received during my education, my background experience in caregiving position and my compassionate nature I feel as if this job is perfect for me.
How would you approach building a relationship with new clients?
I would make a little worksheet for the family to fill out discussing things their child may dislike, triggers, activities they would like to try or enjoy
To get a general idea of likes and dislikes
What are some things you’d do with children you’re caring for
A few factors come into play: age, cognitive ability, any physical limitations
Common knowledge of likes and dislikes
Age appropriate activities
Categories of artistic, physical activity, cognitive, purposeful, sensory
Play outside: baseball, soccer, basketball, frisbee, bowling, sandcastles
Emphasis on developing good coping skills for emotional regualtion. One thing i was never taught were good coping skills. Things like deep breathing, positive self talk
Company Research
Community Living-Central Huron is committed to assisting and supporting people to achieve their goals, vision, dreams and to participate in the community through the promotion of social inclusion. I believe that every person deserves to have equal opportunity to thrive and achieve their dreams, visions, and goals.
