26 Activities Aide Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Activities Aide interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. What is your greatest weakness?
How to Answer
This is probably one of the most dreaded questions in a job interview. Answering this question requires self evaluation and honesty. Remember, whatever weakness you decide to share, make sure it is not a key characteristic needed to perform your job.
Written by Darby Faubion
Entry Level
"One of my weaknesses is that I often get nervous around people I don't know. I know we all do that to a certain degree, but for me, it has become something that I am aware of. I now try to attend social activities where I know there are going to be opportunities to meet new people so that I can overcome social anxiety."
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"I think one of my biggest weaknesses is that I can get sidetracked easily. I recognize that in myself and have made a conscious effort to plan my day as much as possible and to stay on target."
Written by Darby Faubion
Experienced
"My biggest weakness has got to be that I take on too many projects at once. While being involved and participating in various things is fun and can be good for a person, I tend to take on several things and then leave some projects unfinished. I have begun to limit myself to only taking on a few projects at a time so that I can devote the necessary time to staying on task."
Written by Darby Faubion
2. What is one of your favorite memories as an activities aide?
How to Answer
Events that make an impression on you speak a lot about what you value. Share something with the interviewer that made you happy or someone who touched your life.
Written by Darby Faubion
Entry Level
"There was a lady that was a resident at a nursing home where I worked. She loved to paint and said that when she was younger she dreamed of being an artist. Every time we had an activity that involved painting, she was one of the first people to come in and get involved. She displayed all of her 'artwork' like she was being honored in a gallery. I will never forget her."
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"I will never forget a resident at the previous facility where I worked. Every time we had a dance scheduled, he would come to the activity director's office and ask me if I was going to save a dance for him. I can't dance and he pretty much couldn't either, but I always made time for one dance with him. He was always so happy because I took the time to make him feel special by dancing with him."
Written by Darby Faubion
3. What are some things that you do to help promote balance in your life?
How to Answer
No matter what profession a person chooses, everyone needs some time to unwind and relax. Psychologists today say that a healthy balance in life allows a person to recharge and refocus which can result in better productivity at work. The interviewer simply wants to know what you do for you. Maybe you have a favorite pass-time or hobby. This is yet another way for the interviewer to get to know you as a person.
Written by Darby Faubion
Entry Level
"I really enjoy working out at the gym and, I also take a kickboxing class twice weekly. After a good workout or class, I always feel like I can rest better and wake up energized and ready for the next day."
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"One of my favorite pass-times is writing. After a busy day at work, I like to journal or write articles for a blog that I author. Both of these forms of writing allow me to release any feelings of frustration I may experience, especially after a stressful day or a difficult situation at work. The writings in my journal are private and my way of 'letting it all out.' The blog articles, on the other hand, are my way of using creative writing to share stories with my followers."
Written by Darby Faubion
4. How would you deal with an angry patient, and why?
How to Answer
Knowing how you will handle a difficult situation will tell the interviewer if you have the the right attitude for this job. Being a clinical lab technician means you have to deal with people from very different backgrounds and with varying personalities. Give the interviewer an example of how you would handle an angry patient.
Written by Darby Faubion
Entry Level
"I think it is important to try and find out what has made the patient mad. If it is something such as not being called as quickly as he had expected, a simple explanation regarding what caused the delay may help calm him."
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"I believe acting calmly and speaking rationally is a great way to calm someone who is angry and I try to be the voice of reason without making someone feel that I am belittling them."
Written by Darby Faubion
Experienced
"There are a couple of different approaches and safety is, of course, the most important thing to consider. If I were to try and perform a venipuncture on someone who is angry, he could become combative which could result in injury to him, to me, or to both of us. I feel the best approach is to ask what has made the patient upset and try to resolve the underlying cause, if at all possible."
Written by Darby Faubion
5. Tell me about a time you were trusted with confidential information.
How to Answer
Working as an activities aide, you are trusted with sensitive information each day. Don't fall into this trap and answer this question with a story containing confidential information, people will view your answer negatively and view you as not being trustworthy. If you choose to tell about a situation be sure to be vague and not use names or too many details.
Written by Darby Faubion
Entry Level
"I am expected to keep all information confidential every day, so there is not just one instance that I can refer to. I believe in practicing within legal and ethical bounds and keeping patient's confidence is one way I do that."
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"I'm trusted with confidential information every day. I make a point to leave my work at work and not discuss patients outside of the facili. By not discussing confidential information about the patients I'm ensuring that I'm not breaking any rules and giving information to those that are not on a need to know basis."
Written by Darby Faubion
Experienced
"Every day I work is an example of me being trusted with confidential information. HIPAA regulations were set in place with good reason and I appreciate the idea behind them. I strive to stay well within the bounds of legality with regard to patient privacy."
Written by Darby Faubion
6. Do you feel you are capable of being a good team player?
How to Answer
Unless you work in a job where you have no human contact or interaction, being able to work well within a team is a crucial skill. Describe what makes you feel like you are a good team player to the interviewer.
Written by Darby Faubion
Entry Level
"I definitely feel like I am capable of being a good team player. I am easy to get along with and am eager to learn from those with more experience."
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"Yes, I do feel like I am capable of being a good team player. I enjoy working with others and want to always do my part to make the teamwork work."
Written by Darby Faubion
Experienced
"I really value being a part of a team that works well with together. I believe I always put forth an effort to be a strong part of any team I am working with. I think one main key is to remember that none of us knows everything there is to know and that if we are respectful of another's knowledge or experience it can make the team, as a whole, stronger."
Written by Darby Faubion
7. Have you ever considered going back to school to get certified as an Activity Director?
How to Answer
Interviewers often ask this question. An answer of 'yes' is not as disqualifier, as many people may think. An interest in pursuing a higher education, especially within the same field, tells the interviewer that you are committed to your job. However, being happy with your education level is just as important.
Written by Darby Faubion
Entry Level
"I really haven't thought about going back to school. I enjoy being an activities aide and having the opportunity to be involved with people and be an active part of their lives. One day, if the opportunity presents itself, I may consider it, but for now I am happy with where I am."
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"At one time, I considered becoming a dental hygienist. However, when I began working as an activities aide, I knew this is what I wanted to do from now on. I enjoy being able to spend my days working with people and interacting with them. Many of those we care for do not have family or friends who visit with them. My job allows me to fill a void in their lives and I love it."
Written by Darby Faubion
8. Do you anticipate any changes in your life within the next 12-24 months that may cause you to have to relocate or leave this job?
How to Answer
Knowing what goals you have and any changes you anticipate in your life will give the interviewer an opportunity to evaluate two things: 1. what positions are available that won't disrupt your plans and, 2. are you interested in having a long-term relationship within the company? Either way, being upfront and honest is always appreciated.
Written by Darby Faubion
Entry Level
"My hope is to find a position that will allow me to work long term. I do not anticipate any significant changes that would affect that."
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"I recently became engaged. Although we have not set a date yet, we have agreed to wait twelve months before the marriage. Presently, our plans are to stay where we are and build a career, not just work a job. Also, we do not plan on having children for at least two years after our marriage. We both feel that being able to become established in our jobs and save for our future would be the responsible thing to do before starting a family."
Written by Darby Faubion
Experienced
"I have no plans of relocating and all of my family live close by. I have traveled before and have come to a place in my life where I want to find a stationary position and grow with a company. Being an activities aide gives me the chance to give my time to others and gives me a feeling of fulfillment."
Written by Darby Faubion
9. What makes you think you will be successful at our organization?
How to Answer
Rather than just sharing how you have gone above and beyond expectations in the past, focus on how your qualities will help you meet and exceed expectations with their organization. Discuss the reasons why will you be great at this job. Talk about your qualifications and skills that will help you to do this job well. If you can, match your strengths to the requirements outlined in the job description.
Written by Darby Faubion
Entry Level
"I feel I have the education and skills necessary to become an asset to your organization and I believe, given the opportunity, I can prove that."
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"I know I will be successful in this role because I have been working in this industry for five years with great training and mentorship. I have a solid understanding of X, Y, and Z (skills listed in the job description). Also, I have all of my updated certifications as outlined in your job description. I am well-prepared for this next step in my career."
Written by Darby Faubion
Experienced
"I believe my success with your organization will come from having all of the hard skills that you are looking for, whether learned in school or gained through work experience. I know all the key players in this region and stay informed of best practices."
Written by Darby Faubion
10. What are some things that need to be done in preparation for taking residents to an activity away from the facility?
How to Answer
any activities are scheduled within the facility. However, others, especially around the holidays, are often scheduled outside of the care facility. Not all residents/patients are able to go. As an activities aide, you will be responsible for assisting with transportation arrangements and determining who is able to be transported safely. The interviewer wants to know that you have an understanding of what is required during this time.
Written by Darby Faubion
Entry Level
"I always call the place where our activity is schedule to verify that no unforeseen issues have come up that would cause us to have to reschedule. Also, we always like to check the weather forecast to make sure the roads are going to be safe for travel."
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"One of the most important things is to verify with the nurses which patients are able to travel and which ones are not. Just because I know most of the residents doesn't mean that issues may not arise from day to day. So, the morning of a scheduled outing, I always go over the list of residents who are planning to attend and double check with the assigned nurse to make sure it is safe for them to travel with our group."
Written by Darby Faubion
11. Salary is often commensurate with experience. How do you feel about someone with more experience than you having a higher salary but doing the same job?
How to Answer
Most employers do offer higher salary incentives to get more seasoned employees. This is not meant to devalue a person's knowledge or experience, but rather paying for more experience. It is important to note that the interviewer is not saying you will definitely make less than someone with more experience. Many times this question is to see how you respond and how badly you want a position. If an employee is willing to put in the work and earn the pay increase, employers often see them as someone worth investing in. This is a good time to ask what the beginning salary is and discuss options that are negotiable such as benefits and paid time off.
Written by Darby Faubion
Entry Level
"I don't have a problem with someone who has more experience than me making a higher salary. I respect the experience that others have and know that I will have to prove myself."
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"I realize that salaries are often determined by the amount of experience an applicant has. I appreciate the fact that employers recognize experience as a factor in determining pay and am willing to show that I am worthy."
Written by Darby Faubion
Experienced
"I understand that years of experience are often rewarded with higher earning. I feel, given the chance to demonstrate my knowledge and skills, you will find that I am capable of doing the job as well as some of the more experienced employees. Having said that, I will not turn down an offer of employment because of a difference in pay based on my present lack of experience. With that in mind, what benefits are available for someone coming on board with your company with my resume?"
Written by Darby Faubion
12. If you were the person responsible for hiring new employees, what qualities would you look for in a candidate? Do you think you possess those qualities?
How to Answer
There is more than one reason for asking this question. First, the interviewer wants to know what qualities you think are important to perform this job. Second, and most importantly, your answer will tell the interviewer if you hold yourself to the same standard as you do others. If you want to see certain characteristics in your peers, you should be able to tell the interviewer with confidence that you possess those traits, as well. This question is one that interviewers often use to distinguish sincerity on the part of the candidate.
Written by Darby Faubion
Entry Level
"If I were hiring someone, I would look for someone who is passionate about the job and about patient care. I also feel that being approachable and willing to learn is very important."
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"I believe that honesty is important no matter what job title a person holds. I have found that being honest with people creates an atmosphere of mutual trust and respect. Those qualities, I feel, are essential when building rapport with patients and co-workers."
Written by Darby Faubion
Experienced
"We all possess different qualities and that is what makes a great team. If I were responsible for interviewing and hiring new employees,I would look for someone who has a genuine interest in the job and a desire to grow and learn. None of us knows everything there is to know about each disease or treatment. Being willing to learn and share what we've learned with one another makes us a better team and benefits our patients and those who will need care in the future."
Written by Darby Faubion
13. Have you ever had an issue arise with a patient that you had to report to a supervisor?
How to Answer
One of the most difficult things for those working in healthcare is handling situations that become uncomfortable and making the decision to report to a supervisor. However, for the safety of yourself and the safety of patients, it is sometimes necessary. The interviewer is looking for signs that you are able to handle a difficult situation with professionalism and compassion.
Written by Darby Faubion
Entry Level
"I have never had an issue that I felt was uncomfortable enough that I needed to involve a supervisor. Of course, when dealing with different people and personalities, it is easy to see that disagreements can arise. However, I always try to treat those I care for with the utmost respect and, in turn, they usually show the same respect.
"
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"I have only had one incident that I felt was necessary to report to a supervisor since I've worked as an activities aide. I was helping gather residents into the activity room for an arts and crafts project. When I entered the resident's room and began to help him transfer from his bed to his wheelchair, he groped me inappropriately. I calmly told him that that behavior was inappropriate. He became angry and began to grope me again. I reported the incident to my supervisor who addressed the issue with the patient."
Written by Darby Faubion
14. What made you choose a career as an Activities Aide?
How to Answer
Your choice of profession tells alot about you. Interviewers often ask what made you choose a specific profession. It's their way of getting to know you and seeing how passionate you come across regarding your choice.
Written by Darby Faubion
Entry Level
"I actually worked as a nursing assistant for a while, but when the opportunity to work in an activity department became available, I applied. I loved the idea of getting to care for people by giving them something fun to look forward to each day."
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"I love working with people. At one time I considered going to nursing school, but I just wasn't sure if that was the right choice for me. I visited some different healthcare facilities and realized how active the Activity Director and the aides who worked with her were in their patient's daily lives. I just felt like this would be a great fit for me."
Written by Darby Faubion
Experienced
"I have always enjoyed working closely with people and assisting people. There is much more to being an activities aide than many people realize. When I became involved and saw how much those I care for looked forward to seeing me each day and what it meant to them to have someone to be involved in their lives, I knew I had made the right decision."
Written by Darby Faubion
15. How do you respond to an emergency situation at work?
How to Answer
Depending on the situation, you will want to respond quickly and make yourself available to assist the doctor in any way you can. Be aware of the surroundings and also observe the patient. Your best response will be one where you are sensitive to the situation by listening closely to the doctor and nurses involved. There may not be anything you can do to help, but if you get in the way, you could definitely create more problems. Ask what you can do and pay attention. If you need to step aside, be respectful and understanding.
Written by Darby Faubion
Entry Level
"That really depends on the situation. I always try to remember to remain as calm as possible and report to my designated area as quickly as possible and follow emergency protocol."
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"If an emergency were to arise, I would wait patiently for the doctors orders and assist her or him in whatever she or he needs. If there is an immediate danger to a patient or someone in my care, I would make sure to offer assistance to get them to safety."
Written by Darby Faubion
Experienced
"There can be any number of emergency situations in a healthcare facility, so how I would respond would be dependent upon what type of emergency it is. First and foremost is the safety of patients and employees. I would make sure no one is in immediate danger and follow any emergency protocol, per facility instructions."
Written by Darby Faubion
16. How important is it for an activities person to be a patient person?
How to Answer
Interaction with patients requires good communication skills. Part of practicing good communication is the ability to be patient with others. Working as an activities aide can be a very satisfying job, but it requires a lot of work and patience. The interviewer wants to know that you are comfortable with your ability to be patient and offer guidance/support when needed.
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"I believe that being patient is a very important characteristic of an activities aide. We often have very hectic schedules and work with patients who have diverse personalities and needs. Being able to focus on the needs of others while performing our job can be very demanding. However, patience is a must."
Written by Darby Faubion
Experienced
"The old saying 'patience is a virtue' is especially true when dealing with a group of patients or residents. There are often times when we have to calm agitated patients or help them refocus when they get frustrated with an activity. Losing your cool or being impatient is not an effective way to communicate and calm someone."
Written by Darby Faubion
17. How would your coworkers describe you?
How to Answer
Questions such as this one are asked with the aim of getting you to discuss some of your qualities, perhaps hidden that you wouldn't have mentioned if you weren't asked. Remember to share positives, but not sound conceited.
Written by Darby Faubion
Entry Level
"I believe those that have worked with me would say that I am approachable and that I am willing to work hard to make teamwork effective."
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"My colleagues will tell you that I am a team player and that I am
someone they feel comfortable coming to when they need an extra hand or someone to talk to."
Written by Darby Faubion
Experienced
"I feel confident that my coworkers would speak well of me. I am hardworking and passionate about, not only my patients, but an advocate for fellow employees, as well. I always try to show appreciation."
Written by Darby Faubion
18. What are some activities that you like to assist with as an activities aide?
How to Answer
The role of an activities aide can vary from day to day. From planning activities, assisting with games or arts and crafts, or assisting with an outing, the activities aide is often very busy. The interviewer is interested in knowing what you like about your job.
Written by Darby Faubion
Entry Level
"I love helping with 'game day'. On this day, we schedule a variety of different games to play within the facility. It may be bingo, go fish, any kind of game that can engage the patients. We give out small prizes for winners and they love it!"
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"One of my favorite activities is touch therapy. In this activity, I get to experience one on one activities with my patients. The activity may involve something as simple as helping a female patient paint her nails, roll her hair, or fix her makeup. The smile on their faces when they have someone to spend some extra time with them is often priceless."
Written by Darby Faubion
Experienced
"There are so many fun things about being an activities aide. I enjoy everything I do, but if I had to pick a favorite activity, I would have to say that helping with the facility dances would be it. It's fun to help the residents dress up and fix their hair and go down to the 'social' room. There are times when the music plays and those who are able to dance get out there that I can see a sparkle in their eye."
Written by Darby Faubion
19. Have you ever been in a situation in which a co-worker put a patient in jeopardy? If so, how did you handle it?
How to Answer
If you have ever been faced with a situation that resulted in you having to make a judgment call that may have affected the job of a friend or co-worker, you know how disheartening it can be. However, those who work in healthcare are bound by law to protect patients and
Other co-workers by reporting anything in appropriate or dangerous. The interviewer wants to know that you are capable of identifying and reporting a situation if needed.
Written by Darby Faubion
Entry Level
"I have never been in a situation that required me to report a co-worker. Honestly, I hope I never experience a situation like that."
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"I actually have experienced a time that I had to report a co-worker to my
supervisor. One of the patients that was involved in an activity I was overseeing reported to me that she wasn't feeling well. She told me that the nurse gave insulin her insulin without checking her blood sugar first. She told me and asked me not to tell anyone. However, I knew that patient
safety is the responsibility of everyone. So, I did notify the supervisor."
Written by Darby Faubion
Experienced
"When I worked at a long-term care facility, one of my co-worker was using a lift to transfer a patient. He did not have the belt fastened correctly and the patient slipped onto the floor. This was an accident that could have been prevented. I had to report the situation over to a supervisor."
Written by Darby Faubion
20. What makes you feel motivated to do a good job?
How to Answer
This question is practically begging you to highlight your positive attributes. So don't give a vague, generic response - it tells them very little about you. Instead, try and use this question as an opportunity to give the interviewer some insight into your character, and use examples where possible.
Written by Darby Faubion
Entry Level
"The feeling of knowing that I have the chance to improve the quality of life for someone really motivates me. There is just something about knowing that I can have a small part in the life of someone who is trusting me to care for them."
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"I've always been motivated by the challenge of a tough situation. In my last role, I came across a particular patient who refused to participate in any activities. I was told he was 'always gruff and impossible.' I talked with him and was able to find something we had in common, which calmed him down. After the patient saw me make an effort to better understand his situation, he became much more agreeable to my aid. I love facing and overcoming challenges on such a personal level."
Written by Darby Faubion
Experienced
"I can think of several things that motivate me to do a good job. First, and most importantly, is knowing that patients and their family's trust me to care for them. Being able to encourage patients who may otherwise be alone, to get involved with activities and see their happiness when doing so makes my job as an activities aide all worth while."
Written by Darby Faubion
21. Being an activities requires a great deal of attention to detail and often multi-tasking. What do you do to help keep yourself from becoming overwhelmed?
How to Answer
Planning activities for large groups of patients/residents requires the ability to multitask and ensure all details are checked and double-checked. In an activities aide interview, discuss your understanding of the importance of maintaining an accurate calendar of events and share ways that you encourage patients to be involved with planned activities.
Written by Darby Faubion
Entry Level
"I have learned to recognize the things that may cause me to feel overwhelmed and try to address them before a situation gets out of hand. For example, I always like to check my calendar at the end of my shift and then again the next day before a new shift begins. This helps me to stay on task and prepare for events in a timely manner without leaving me feeling overwhelmed later on."
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"I am very detail-oriented. One of my strengths as an activities aide is to manage multiple tasks with professionalism and good follow-through."
Written by Darby Faubion
Experienced
"Being an activities aide does require the ability to multitask while handling situations that may create stress. I feel it is important to know our own personal strengths and weaknesses. For instance, I am very detail oriented and like to keep written records to refer to. I like to make sure that I know what activities are scheduled for my shift are and make sure that I have a mental list of what needs to be done and in what order. It makes most situations less overwhelming."
Written by Darby Faubion
22. Do you have any experience helping with activities involving Alzheimer's patients?
How to Answer
Activities Aides work with a wide variety of patients. Those who work in long-term care facilities, such as nursing homes, may be assigned to work with patients who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's or dementia. Activities for these patients often requires planning separate from that of the general patient population. The interviewer is trying to see if you have an understanding of how to handle activities with these patients.
Written by Darby Faubion
Entry Level
"While I do have some experience working with Alzheimer's patients, my experience is somewhat limited. Most of my experience as an activities aide has been working with geriatric patients in assisted living facilities."
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"I do have experience working with Alzheimer's patients. I used to work on an Alzheimer's ward in a nursing home. I was responsible for planning activities for the patients based on their level of understanding and abilities to participate."
Written by Darby Faubion
Experienced
"I have worked with Alzheimer's and dementia patients a great deal over the last several years. It is very unfortunate to see the changes that dementia and its related illnesses cause patients to experience. I have learned that planning activities for patients with Alzheimer's or dementia often requires arranging for less tedious skills and activities that require less time."
Written by Darby Faubion
23. Have you ever had a disagreement with a coworker? If so, how was it resolved?
How to Answer
Any time you work with someone else, there is a chance of having a disagreement about something at one time or another. The interviewer knows this. It's human nature for people to have their own opinions. What is important to the interviewer in this question is whether or not you are willing to compromise and work through difficult situations with your co-workers. Being unwilling to compromise or find alternative solutions to a dispute can affect everyone on the team, even if it is indirectly. Sharing a personal experience is OK, but do not embellish it to 'be the hero.'
Written by Darby Faubion
Entry Level
"I am usually a very soft-spoken person and strive to be the 'peacekeeper.' I can't recall any specific incident of a disagreement. I would like to think that if a disagreement arises I would be able to handle things in a professional manner and resolve the issue in a respectful manner."
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"I believe if we think about it, each of us could remember at least one disagreement with a friend or coworker. Although I consider myself to be pretty easy-going, I am also very passionate about my patients and the care that they receive. I have been aware of disagreements between other co-workers, but really like to think of myself as more of a peacekeeper. I feel like professional people should be able to discuss things logically and come to an agreement that is satisfactory for everyone involved."
Written by Darby Faubion
Experienced
"I think the most common disagreement between myself and others have involved our personal feelings about how healthcare should be carried out. However, I have learned, as have most of the people that I have worked with, that while our opinions are important, plans of care are designated by strict guidelines and with the input of everyone on the care team as well as the patient. Learning to respect those guidelines and patient wishes usually resolves issues that arise."
Written by Darby Faubion
24. What are important characteristics for an activities aide to possess?
How to Answer
Interviewers often ask questions like this for a couple of reasons. Chances are, whatever characteristics you would consider valuable in another person are characteristics that you possess. Your answer will give the interviewer an idea of what to expect from you.
Written by Darby Faubion
Entry Level
"An activities aide should definitely be flexible and easy to get along with. Working with people and coordinating activities for groups requires determination, but also flexibility."
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"I believe an activities aide should be outgoing and love people. This is a great job, but it requires a lot of hands on activity with patients. Being comfortable getting to know people is essential for this job."
Written by Darby Faubion
Experienced
"I feel that an activities aide should be focus driven, but also flexible. He/she should also be a great communicator, as planning and coordinating activities and events often requires contribution from others. A genuine love for people and a giving spirit are important."
Written by Darby Faubion
25. Do you feel like you have strong relationship building skills?
How to Answer
Building strong relationships is essential for success of any business. An activities aide has to have strong relationship building skills to do the job effectively. As an activities aide, you will work closely with patients and peers on a daily basis. Share why you think you are capable of building strong relationships.
Written by Darby Faubion
Entry Level
"I do feel like I have good relationship building skills. I like people and enjoy getting to know them."
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"I have often been complimented on my relationship building skills. I like to get to know people and ask them questions about themselves; I find it's a great and simple way to start building rapport with others. I consider myself to be a strong relationship builder and take pride in my 'people skills'."
Written by Darby Faubion
Experienced
"I believe I have strong relationship building skills. I value the opinions of others and try to show respect to them. I find that having a caring attitude and a willingness to learn about others helps build relationships."
Written by Darby Faubion
26. Has there ever been a time when you received negative feedback, and how did you handle it?
How to Answer
Receiving negative feedback can be discouraging, but it doesn't have to be something that leaves you feeling incapable of doing your job. The important thing to remember when answering this question is don't talk negatively about the person who gave you the feedback. Rather state what was said and how you grew from the event.
Written by Darby Faubion
Answer Example
"When I first became an activities aide, a mother of one of the children reported to the director that she thought I was not as attentive to her child as I should be. When my supervisor talked with me about the complaint, I was able to give an account of my day and what activities I conducted that included the child in question. We were able to create a plan of activities for the parent to review and agree to. Our effort to resolve the issue showed the mother that we were willing to work with her and we never had any other issues."
Written by Darby Faubion
Experienced
"I am sure that anyone who works directly with others for any amount of time will learn that receiving negative feedback is not always a truly 'negative' thing. People respond to situations differently. I recall I once received a negative rating on one of my evaluations. It was a disheartening experience because I really pride myself on doing good work. I scheduled a time to sit and talk with my supervisor and understand his point of view with regard to the negative rating and made a plan of action to improve on the issue."
Written by Darby Faubion