Preparation for Interviews

Understanding the Role and Organisation

Examine the volunteering role description to fully comprehend what will be expected of you.
Familiarise yourself with the health and social care organisation, its mission, and its key services.
Understand the patient base or individuals you will be interacting with, keeping their unique needs and backgrounds in your mind.
Learn about the broader context of the role within the organisation and the community, so you can explain why it is important and how it supports overall objectives.

Preparing for Interview Questions

Prepare your responses to common interview questions such as ‘Why are you interested in this volunteer role?’, ‘Can you give examples of when you have worked in a team?’, ‘How would you handle a difficult situation?’ or ‘What skills can you bring to our organisation?’
Use concrete examples from your own experiences to substantiate your responses.
Ensure your answers align with the skill requirements and day-today tasks of the volunteering role.
Think about and formulate questions you can ask the interviewer about the role, the team you would be working with, and the organisation – this shows depth of interest and preparation.

Personal Presentation

Dress appropriately for an interview; it’s better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.
Practice good hygiene: clean clothes, brushed hair, and fresh breath can all help make a good impression.
Share your enthusiasm and passion for the cause and the role; be honest and sincere.
Maintain eye contact, and display confident body language such as a firm handshake, straight posture, and attentive listening.

The Importance of Self-Reflection

Reflect on your motivations for volunteering in health and social care – identify your interests and passions which make this a fitting choice for you.
Evaluate potential challenges you might face in the role, and think about how you might handle them.
Assess your current skills and areas for growth and how these align with the volunteering role.
Remember, an interview is your opportunity to find out if the role and the organisation are a good fit for you, as much as it is for them to assess you!