Question: Why do you want to become a personal support worker?

Chances are you chose this professional because you like to help people and view this career as a way of making a difference. However, you can impress an interviewer if you include in your answer:

– I find it personally rewarding to help people overcome health challenges and continue to live with dignity and independence
– It is a career in which I can take great pride
– I view this role as an excellent way to learn about the health care system and how to work with clients one-to-one
– Based on my training (and volunteering, if you have done this) thus far, I feel that is a profession I would truly love
– As seniors will always need assistance, there is excellent career stability
– There are a number of populations I can work with in different locations (e.g., hospitals, private care homes, seniors still living at home, retirement living)
– The flexibility in scheduling that is frequently available is appealing to me and suits my own lifestyle
– My training for this role means that I am not restricted to working in just one part of Canada

Question: How would you handle an aggressive client?

Your answers may vary depending upon the person’s state (e.g., do they have dementia?), but some basics would be:

– Remain calm at all times
– Let the client vent their anger or frustration but do not fuel their outbursts by losing your own temper
– Found out what the problem is and try to offer a solution
–  Call for assistance, if my safety or the safety of others is at risk
–  Do not take personal attacks seriously by considering the circumstances and the person’s current state

Question: Let’s discuss the Ontario bill of rights for people who live in long-term care homes. Which rights do you feel are the most important?

This answer is very much a judgment call on your part. If you are not sure, go through the list of rights and think about the ones that really speak to you. If you were a senior, which would you care about the most? This approach allows you to speak with passion and depth, thus providing the most satisfying answer.

Question: Do you feel that you are a good communicator?

This is very important for a personal support worker. You need clear communication with your clients so that they understand what you can and cannot do for them. PSWs also need to possess an appropriate degree of patience as they will often deal with elderly people with hearing problems or communication issues resulting from strokes.

In your answer, emphasize that you are a good listener and take the time to make sure you fully understand. Also, tell how you will ensure the client fully comprehends what you are telling them. If possible, provide a relevant example from your past that demonstrates this and how it was important to your development.

There are a number of other questions that could come up, so be sure to do your research and preparation. It is also very helpful to participate in a mock interview where someone asks you possible questions. This allows you to practice how you would answer them and answer any other related questions that come up. Good luck!