Personal Support Workers (PSWs) require a unique combination of skills, training, and compassion. A strong hiring process helps you find candidates who can deliver exceptional care while also representing your agency professionally. Below are the top interview questions, what great answers look like, and screening questions that eliminate unqualified applicants early.
Best Interview Questions for PSWs
1. “What types of clients or conditions do you have experience with?”
Strong answers:
- Dementia
- Mobility challenges
- Post-operative care
- Hospice
- Mental health
Red flags:
- Very limited experience
- Inability to articulate what they’ve done.
2. “How do you maintain dignity and independence for clients?”
Look for:
- Person-centered care
- Respect for autonomy
- Patience
- Proper communication
3. “How would you handle a situation where a client refuses care?”
Strong answers:
- Understand the reason
- Re-approach with empathy
- Adjust care if appropriate
- Contact supervisor when needed
Red flags:
- Forcing or arguing with the client.
4. “Tell me about a time you noticed a health change in a client.”
Look for:
- Clinical observation skills
- Timely reporting
- Following protocols
5. “How do you work with families who may be stressed or demanding?”
Ideal answers:
- Clear communication
- Professional boundaries
- Empathy
- Reporting concerns to the office
Screening Questions for PSWs
- Do you hold a valid PSW certificate?
- Do you have recent experience supporting seniors?
- Are you physically able to lift 25–50 lbs?
- Are you comfortable with dementia care?
- Do you have CPR/First Aid certification?
Don’t know how to implement pre-screening into your hiring process? Check out our Pre-Screening Implementation Guide for sample questions, the implementation process, and best practices. Access the free pre-screening guide >
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