Extraordinary Lives.
Outstanding People.

Application hints & tips

Looking to start a career at Caring Homes? Here are 10 tips from our recruitment teams:

1. Start by researching Caring Homes, the home itself and the role you're applying for. Understanding key information about the company you’re interviewing with can help you go into your interview with confidence. Using the Caring Homes website and social media posts will provide a solid understanding of the company’s goals and how your background makes you a great fit.

2. Practice your answers to common interview questions and be prepared to talk about yourself and why you want to work for the company. This will allow you to quickly communicate who you are and what value you will bring to the company and the role.

3. Read the job description. You may want to print it out and highlight anything you wish to discuss or anything you feel you at excel at. Think about examples from your past and current work that align with these requirements.

4. Be prepared with examples of your work. During the interview, you will likely be asked about specific work you’ve completed in relation to the position. After reviewing the job description, think of work you’ve done in past jobs, clubs or volunteer positions that show you have experience and success doing the work they require.

5. Practicing your answers out loud is an incredibly effective way to prepare. Say them to yourself or ask a friend to help run through questions and answers. You’ll find you gain confidence as you get used to saying the words.

6. Prepare smart questions for your interviewers. Interviews are a two-way street. Employers expect you to ask questions: they want to know that you’re thinking seriously about what it would be like to work there. Here are some questions you may want to consider asking your interviewers:

• Can you explain some of the day-to-day responsibilities this job entails?
• What are the hours of work?
• Can you tell me about the home?

7. Plan your interview attire the night before. If you’re speaking to a recruiter before the interview, you can ask them about the dress code in the workplace and choose your outfit accordingly. If you don’t have someone to ask, research the company to learn what’s appropriate.

8. Plan your journey so that you can arrive 10–15 minutes early. Map out your route to the interview location so you can be sure to arrive on time. Consider doing a practice run. If you’re taking public transport, identify a backup plan.

Tip: When you arrive early, use the extra minutes to observe workplace dynamics.

9. Make a great first impression. Don’t forget the little things—shine your shoes, make sure your nails are clean and tidy, and check your clothes for holes, stains, pet hair and loose threads. Display confident body language and a smile throughout.

10. Respond truthfully to the questions asked. While it can seem tempting to embellish on your skills and accomplishments, interviewers find honesty refreshing and respectable. Focus on your key strengths and why your background makes you uniquely qualified for the position. Keep your answers concise and focused. Your time with each interviewer is limited so be mindful of rambling. Practicing your answers beforehand can help keep you focused. Do not speak negatively about your previous employers. If you’re feeling discouraged about your current job, focus on talking about what you’ve gained from that experience and what you want to do next.

Good luck!