Before the Interview

Research the Company

Before any interview, you should know:

• What type of care they provide (domiciliary, live-in, specialist)
• Their values and mission (check their website's About page)
• Their CQC rating (look them up on the CQC website)
• Recent news or developments (Google the company name)

Why it matters: When you can speak knowledgeably about the company, it shows genuine interest and professionalism.

Understand the Role

Re-read the job description carefully and be ready to discuss:

• Each requirement and how you meet it
• The hours and flexibility needed
• Any specialist skills mentioned
• Travel requirements

Prepare Your Examples

Care interviews use competency-based questions – they want real examples of how you've demonstrated certain qualities. Prepare stories using the STAR method:

• Situation – Set the scene
• Task – What needed to be achieved
• Action – What YOU specifically did
• Result – The positive outcome

Prepare examples for:

• Giving excellent care
• Handling a difficult situation
• Working as part of a team
• Going above and beyond
• Dealing with conflict

Common Interview Questions

About Your Experience

"Tell me about your care experience."

Even if you're new to care, discuss relevant experience:

• Looking after relatives
• Volunteering
• Transferable skills from other roles

"Why do you want to work in care?"

Be genuine. Share your motivation – perhaps personal experience, desire to help others, or finding an unfulfilling previous career.

Scenario Questions

"How would you handle a client refusing medication?"

Show you understand:

• The importance of person-centred care
• That you can't force anyone
• Trying different approaches (timing, explanation)
• When to escalate concerns

"What would you do if you saw a colleague mistreating a client?"

This tests safeguarding knowledge:

• Express that this is unacceptable
• Explain you would report it immediately
• Mention whistleblowing procedures
• Emphasise client welfare comes first

Personal Qualities

"What makes you a good carer?"

Combine personal qualities with evidence:

• "I'm naturally patient – for example, when..."
• "I'm very reliable – in my previous role, I..."
• "I have strong communication skills – I always..."

What to Bring

Essential Documents

• Photo ID (passport or driving licence)
• Proof of right to work in the UK
• DBS certificate (if you have one)
• Qualifications and certificates
• References (written if possible)
• Proof of address

Helpful Extras

• Notepad and pen
• Printed copy of your CV
• Questions to ask the interviewer
• Directions and parking information

On the Day

Practical Tips

• Arrive 10-15 minutes early – but not earlier
• Dress appropriately – clean, neat, and professional
• Turn off your phone – completely
• Bring a positive attitude – smile and be friendly

Body Language

• Maintain good eye contact
• Sit up straight
• Avoid crossing arms
• Use hand gestures naturally
• Mirror the interviewer's energy

Questions to Ask

Asking thoughtful questions shows genuine interest:

• "What does a typical day look like for carers here?"
• "What training and development opportunities do you offer?"
• "How do you match carers with clients?"
• "What do you think makes someone successful in this role?"
• "What are the next steps in the recruitment process?"

After the Interview

Follow Up

Send a brief thank-you email within 24 hours:

"Thank you for taking the time to interview me for the Care Worker position. I enjoyed learning more about [company name] and am very excited about the opportunity to join your team. Please don't hesitate to contact me if you need any additional information."

Reflect

Whether or not you get the job, think about:

• What went well?
• What could you improve?
• Were there questions you struggled with?

Use this to prepare even better for your next interview.

Special Interview Types

Telephone Interviews

• Find a quiet space
• Have your CV and notes in front of you
• Speak clearly and slightly slower than normal
• Smile – it affects your voice tone!

Video Interviews

• Test your technology beforehand
• Choose a tidy, well-lit background
• Look at the camera, not the screen
• Dress professionally (fully – you never know!)

Group Interviews or Assessment Days

• Be collaborative, not competitive
• Show leadership without dominating
• Listen actively to others
• Be yourself throughout

Good Luck!

Remember, the interview is also your chance to assess whether this employer is right for you. A good care company will make you feel valued and welcomed from the very first interaction.

Ready to find your perfect care role? Search jobs on Hello Carer and put these interview tips into practice!