30 Social Work Internship Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Social Work Internship 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.
Behavioral
1. Do you consider yourself a compassionate person?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
One of the characteristics of an excellent social worker is to have compassion and empathy for others. You must put yourself in your client's shoes and help them through challenging times. The interviewer wants to hear that you consider yourself a compassionate person and that you will be a good fit for their organization if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on giving an example of how you have compassion for others while remaining professional and not letting your emotions interfere with your work. It is excellent to be compassionate but not to the point where you cannot stay focused on your job.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you want to be considered for the social work internship, it is best to avoid saying you do not feel compassion for others. If you do not consider yourself a compassionate person, you might want to consider another type of work. Since you chose to pursue a career in social work, you most likely are a compassionate, kind, and empathetic individual who genuinely cares about people.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I consider myself a very compassionate person. I grew up wanting to be a nurse because I always wanted to help those who were sick or injured. I was the young girl who always brought home stray animals and tended to their needs. I changed my career focus after doing volunteer work at a homeless shelter and feeling compassion for those displaced and left without a roof over their heads. I feel I can make a bigger impact on the community by working as a social worker. While I have compassion and empathy for others, I can still keep my emotions in check and be professional while performing my job."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Behavioral
2. What is your greatest strength?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear about your greatest strength related to the position to determine if you have the qualities they are looking for. Review the job description before your interview and look for keywords the organization used to describe its ideal candidate. Then, choose one of those keywords that you have identified as your greatest strength, showing the interviewer that you have the characteristics they are looking for.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Suppose the job description says the organization seeks a candidate for a social work Internship who has strong communication and interpersonal skills to work in a mentorship position. In that case, describe your greatest strength as either your communication, interpersonal, or mentorship skills. Focus on using a keyword in the job description so the interviewer can see that you have one of the qualities they are looking for in their ideal candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
Most job descriptions use several keywords to describe the qualities they are looking for in their ideal candidate. Avoid using a strength that is not in the job announcement or that is not related to the job of the social work internship. The interviewer wants to hear that your strength is a quality they seek in a candidate and that you will benefit the organization if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"My greatest strength that will benefit my social work internship is my interpersonal skills. I can work with diverse groups of people, actively listen, have compassion and empathy, and collaborate well with others. I have over 10 years of experience honing these skills."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Behavioral
3. What is your greatest weakness and what are you doing to improve?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear about your greatest weakness as a social work professional to see that you are self-aware and can identify an area that needs improvement. When you admit you have a deficiency in a particular aspect of your profession and take steps to improve, it shows the interviewer that you are motivated and inspired to grow professionally.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on a weakness related to your profession, but not one that is an essential job duty. For example, suppose you say your weakness is your verbal communication skills. In that case, the interviewer may pass you over for another candidate since that skill is an essential job duty in a social work internship.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid describing a weakness that is a crucial responsibility needed in a social work internship or one that is not work-related. The interviewer wants to hear what weakness in your profession you have identified and how you plan to improve.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"My greatest weakness is my lack of experience interviewing clients. That is one of the reasons I applied for this internship. I am excited to develop and strengthen my interview skills while under the supervision and guidance of your incredible team. I am a quick learner and know I will feel more comfortable after I have conducted a few interviews."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Behavioral
4. Do you work well under pressure?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
During your social work internship, you will be placed in high-pressure situations, and you must work well under pressure. You will be responsible for helping clients with their everyday problems, working with clients who have been abused or have mental health issues, and working in crises. The interviewer wants to hear that you work well under pressure and stay focused on the task at hand.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on giving an example of working under pressure related to your role as a social work professional. Using the STAR method is an excellent way to formulate your response to this question. STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. Briefly describe the situation, explain your role, the measures you took to solve the issues, and the outcome. The interviewer wants to hear that you can effectively work under pressure during your social work internship.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you want to be considered for the position, you want to avoid saying you do not work well under pressure. If you have difficulty working under pressure, learn how to handle stressful situations before your interview. If chosen for the Social Work Internship, you need to be calm and focused on the task to be performed when faced with stressful situations.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
" I work very well under pressure. I have not worked as a social work professional before, but I was a paramedic for six years. I was exposed to many stressful situations while working in the field. When faced with a stressful situation, I let my training kick in, which helps me to remain calm and focused. I find that remaining focused on the task at hand keeps my emotions from taking over, which allows me to stay calm while working in stressful environments."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Behavioral
5. Do you work well with others?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
During your social work internship, you will be required to collaborate with team members, clients, family members, and other professionals. The interviewer wants to hear that you are a team player and can work well with diverse groups.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
If you have experience working as a social work professional, describe how well you have collaborated with others in the past. If you are new to this field, use an experience from a former job, sports team, or school to describe how you work well with others.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
Since the position requires you to work well with others, you want to avoid saying you do not enjoy working with others. If you show the interviewer that you will not be a team player or will have difficulty working with others, they will not hire you for the position.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I work very well with others and consider myself a team player. I am a patient person, an active listener, and a clear communicator, essential skills to working in social work. My ability to empathize and have compassion for others makes my team members and clients feel appreciated and understood."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Direct
6. We require all candidates to submit to a pre-employment drug screen. Will there be an issue passing the drug screen?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a social worker, you will be held to a higher standard and must be a good role model for those you serve. Organizations want to hire candidates for social work internships that are drug-free and who will set an excellent example to the community. The interviewer advises you of their pre-employment drug screen and asks if you'll pass, so they can decide if they want to continue with you in the hiring process. Agencies invest a lot of money hiring employees, and they want to avoid sending you for a drug test if you will not pass.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
As with any interview question, you want to focus on being completely honest in your response. As embarrassing as it may be, if you do not think you will pass the drug test, you need to let the interviewer know that now. If passing the drug test will not be an issue, ensure the interviewer that you will pass the test because you do not use drugs.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
If passing a drug test will be an issue for you, it is best to wait until you are clean to apply to a social work internship. Many agencies require a pre-employment background investigation and drug test, so you must pass both to work in this profession.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"No, there will not be an issue with passing a drug test. I do not use drugs and never plan to."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Discovery
7. How did you hear about this position?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Organizations invest a lot of money advertising their job openings. If they get more applicants from one source than another, they can determine where to spend their marketing efforts. The interviewer wants to hear what methods are effective and which are not.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
The interviewer wants to briefly hear how you heard about the position. Be concise in your response, focusing on describing the recruiter's name, the website where the organization posted the job, a career fair, the agency website, or a professor's referral.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid forgetting where you heard about the position. Suppose you cannot remember where you learned about the job opening. In that case, the interviewer will determine that you do not pay attention to detail and might be applying to many other positions.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"I heard about this position from a recruiter named Josh Harley. I met Josh on campus at a career fair, and he encouraged me to apply for the internship."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Discovery
8. How does your previous experience apply to the work we do here?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see if you have experience working with their target population. If the organization works with clients who have substance abuse issues, they want to hear what experience you have working with those individuals and their families.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing any experience related to the position you are interviewing for. You can use past paid work experience or volunteer experience in your response.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you do not have experience related to the organization's work, avoid saying you have no experience. You can describe other skills you have that will benefit the organization, such as your soft skills, the research you have performed on the target population, your area of study, or the leadership positions you have held.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have previous experience working as a counselor for troubled youth with substance abuse issues. I spent three years working with adolescents 13-18 years old, which is directly related to your organization's work. I have experience doing risk assessments, holding individual and group counseling sessions, helping develop treatment plans using evidence-based practice, and monitoring the client's progress."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Discovery
9. What do you hope to accomplish as a social worker?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
There are many reasons people choose to pursue a career in social work. The reasons might be to fight for social justice, improve the community, help relieve clients' suffering, or help protect children or other vulnerable populations. The interviewer asks this question to see what will motivate and inspire you in your social work internship.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on giving a heartfelt response. Suppose you say that you want to help people as a social worker, which is a generic response. Instead, a better answer would be that as a social worker, you want to abolish hunger in the community and will do so by providing education and warm food to all who need it.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid answering that you hope to accomplish something unachievable. For example, you may want to work with the homeless population and help as many as you can with placement in low-income housing. That is an achievable goal. But, if you say that you hope to accomplish placing 40,000 homeless people in permanent housing, that is a little unrealistic. The interviewer wants to know that you understand you cannot 'save' everyone and have measurable goals.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"What I hope to accomplish as a social worker is to help those with disabilities find gainful employment and housing where they can live independently. I believe it is essential for everyone to be able to live on their own and have a job where they can make their own money. It gives people hope and a sense of independence and purpose, which is so important in society."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Discovery
10. Please tell me about your interpersonal skills.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Many job announcements state the qualifications for the job include strong interpersonal skills, and the social work internship is no exception. Social work professionals must have strong interpersonal skills to interact with clients, family members, the community, and co-workers. The interviewer wants to hear that you have exceptional interpersonal skills and will be a good fit for their organization.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Interpersonal skills are traits you rely on when communicating and interacting with others. When you have strong interpersonal skills, you can build relationships with others and handle social situations with ease. Focus on using some of these interpersonal skills in your response:
- Active listening
- Empathy
- Leadership
- Patience
- Teamwork
- Flexibility
- Responsibility
- Motivation
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid not understanding the definition of interpersonal skills. Interpersonal skills are more than just communicating. This is a wonderful opportunity to show the interviewer how you possess many of the skills they are looking for in a candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have solid interpersonal skills and have been praised by past supervisors and professors for these skills. I am an empathetic person who actively listens, communicates clearly, and is patient in interactions with others. I can work with diverse teams while motivating and inspiring others."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Discovery
11. What are the three main sections of a psychosocial assessment report?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
A psychosocial assessment is a comprehensive evaluation of a client's mental, emotional, and physical health. The report also includes the client's perception of themself and their ability to function in the community. The interviewer asks this question to determine if you understand the three main sections of a psychosocial assessment report or if you will need to be trained on using this assessment tool if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing the three main sections of the psychosocial assessment. The sections are:
- Basic client information
- Background and current functioning
- Summary, assessment, and recommendations
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid not being able to answer the question. If you are unfamiliar with the psychosocial assessment at this stage of your education, the interviewer may question your ability to perform a social work internship.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"The first section of a psychosocial assessment is the client's basic information, such as their name, address, referral, and presenting problem. The second section is the client's background and current functioning, and the third section is my summary, assessment, and recommendations."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Discovery
12. Are you a member of any professional organizations?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see how dedicated you are to your profession and how you stay up-to-date on current trends in the industry. If you belong to professional organizations, it shows the interviewer that you are a true professional.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing what professional organizations you are a member of and how long. There are many social work organizations, some are general to the profession, and some are more specific to the population you will be working with. You can research professional organizations for social workers to learn more and easily become a member online.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
To be considered for the social work internship, it is best to be a member of at least one or two professional organizations. When you are a member of an organization, you will have valuable networking opportunities to share ideas with other members and stay up-to-date on local trends.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I am a member of several professional organizations. I have been a member of the National Association of Social Workers for five years, and recently became a member of the American Association of Geriatric Psychiatry after deciding to work with this population."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Discovery
13. Why did you choose to work with this target population?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In social work, there are many different populations that you could choose to work with. Many social workers choose a particular population based on life experience. The interviewer wants to understand why you chose this specific target population to understand what motivates and inspires you to help this demographic.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on explaining what made you choose to serve the population you are interviewing to work with. You may choose to work with children with disabilities because you have a disabled family member, or you want to work with the homeless because you once were without a home. The interviewer wants to hear your personal reason for choosing to work with this group of people.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
You must have a reason for choosing to work with a specific group. For the interviewer to see your motivation and desire to help their target population, you want to avoid saying you do not have a particular reason. If you do not specify who you want to serve, the interviewer may feel that you are not focused and lack direction in your career.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"I chose to work with veterans because I come from a military family. Both my grandparents and father served our country, and their service severely impacted them. I see there is a lack of support for our veterans, and I want to be that support they so desperately need."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Discovery
14. Do you have volunteer experience?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to gain insight into your personality and interests. What you do outside of work shows where your passion and interests lie and how closely they might tie into your work.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
If your volunteer activities are related to your career, focus on describing those activities in your response. Even if you do not volunteer in a capacity that relates to your target population, it still shows you are interested in helping the community. The interviewer will understand that you genuinely have a passion for helping others, whether you are getting paid for it or not.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying you volunteer if you do not. The interviewer may want a reference from where you volunteer, and you do not want the interviewer to discover you were untruthful. If you have not had time to volunteer, explain that to the interviewer and describe where you would like to volunteer when you have more time.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I have many years of experience volunteering. When I was ten years old, my mother started my brother and me volunteering at a soup kitchen. She wanted us to learn that not everyone has a home or hot food to eat and taught us the value of giving back to our community. Since then, I have continued volunteering in the soup kitchen, at homeless shelters, and most recently at a battered women and children's shelter. Volunteering motivated me to pursue a career in social work, so I thank my mother for introducing me to it at a young age."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Discovery
15. Why did you apply for an internship with our agency?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see why you chose to apply to their particular agency. They want to hear that you have researched their organization and understand the target population and the duties required of you if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
If you review the job announcement before your interview, you will see your job responsibilities if chosen as an intern. You will also learn about the agency's mission, vision statement, and values. When responding, focus on mentioning how you want to work for their agency because their values align with yours, how they have a stellar reputation, or how they serve the target population you want to work with.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid saying that you want an internship with their agency because they pay more than other organizations or have less strict job requirements. If you respond that you want an internship with their agency because they pay a larger stipend, it shows that you may only be interested in the monetary aspect of the position. If you say that their agency has less strict job requirements, the interviewer will determine that you may shy away from hard work and not be a dedicated intern.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"I applied for an internship with your agency for several reasons. Your agency works with the target population that is my field of interest, so I would gain invaluable experience working with students with disabilities. I was also excited to learn that you offer successful interns the possibility of placement after the internship is completed and that I would be working directly with your IEP team to write, implement, and track the progress of the IEP's goals."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Discovery
16. Are you a leader or a follower?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to determine how you like to be managed. If you consider yourself a leader, you will most likely require less supervision and direction. If you are a follower, the interviewer will see that you may need to be closely managed. During a Social Work Internship, you must be both a leader and a follower. You will need to follow the lead of your mentor but also be able to take the lead when conducting interviews and group sessions.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus your answer on explaining how you consider yourself more of a leader but how you can perform both roles. Working in this profession, you must have leadership skills but also be able to take direction and guidance throughout your internship.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
It is best to avoid saying that you consider yourself only a follower. While that is an excellent quality to possess during your internship, you must also be a strong leader to succeed in this profession.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"I consider myself more of a leader than a follower. I have strong leadership skills and like to lead projects and team members to have successful outcomes. However, I am comfortable following the lead of others and expect my internship will be a combination of the two."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Discovery
17. What experience do you have working with our target population?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see if you have experience working with the organization's target population. They ask to determine how much training you might need to understand the people you will be working with. If you have experience working with the population they serve, the interviewer may feel that you are a better candidate than others for the internship.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing any past work you have done with the population the organization serves. Even if you were not paid to work with this group of people and worked in a volunteer capacity, the interviewer wants to hear of any related experience. If you do not have experience working with the organization's target population, explain how you do not have experience but are excited to learn all you can during your internship.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying you have experience with the organization's target population if you do not. The interviewer will review your resume and talk to previous employers, and you do not want to appear dishonest.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have seven years of experience working with your target population. I have volunteered for the last seven years with the Special Olympics and learned a lot about working with people with special needs and disabilities. I have also been a special education teacher's aid for the past three years and am very comfortable working with children ages five to eighteen."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Discovery
18. What would you like to learn here as an intern?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see how the organization can help you achieve your career goals if they choose you for the internship. They want to hear what skills you want to work on and what you need help with to succeed in your career.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on giving two or three examples of skills you would like to learn during your social work internship. If you highlight several skills you would like to learn, it shows the interviewer that you are motivated to succeed and learn all you can during your internship.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid not having a response to this question. If you have not thought about what you would like to learn during your social work internship, the interviewer may feel that you are disorganized and unmotivated to succeed.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"I would like to learn several things as an intern. I want to learn how to conduct a group counseling session, perform risk assessments, and intervene in a crisis situation. I have some basic understanding of these skills, but I know I will learn additional techniques and strengthen these skills during my internship."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Discovery
19. Do you have reliable transportation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer cannot legally ask if you own a vehicle, as it can be discriminatory. However, they can ask if you have reliable transportation. If one of the job requirements is to have reliable transportation, that should be listed on the job description. The interviewer asks this question to determine if you meet their requirement and if there will be no issues arriving to work on time.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Reliable transportation can be a personal vehicle, Uber, public transportation, carpool, motorcycle or bicycle, or walking. Focus on describing what form of reliable transportation you will use to get to your social work internship if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid saying that you have not determined how you will get to work each day. If you have not planned ahead, the interviewer will think you are unreliable and not focused on your career. You also want to avoid saying you have a somewhat reliable old vehicle. If the interviewer feels that you may be late to work because your car broke down, they may pass you over for another candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I have reliable transportation. I bought a new vehicle last year and have never had mechanical issues. I also live close to your facility and will ride my bike when the weather permits. Getting to work will never be a problem for me if you choose to offer me the position, and I typically arrive half an hour before my shift starts."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Discovery
20. What are the top three skills needed to work as a social work professional?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear that you have the qualities they are looking for in a candidate interested in a social work internship. The interviewer asks this question to see what you believe are the top three skills needed to be an excellent social work professional. When you respond, the interviewer will determine that you have those skills yourself since you believe they are essential to your profession.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on reviewing the job announcement before your interview and use three skills listed in the job description, describing the organization's ideal candidate. When you describe three skills needed as a social work professional mentioned in the job description, the interviewer will see that you have the qualities they are looking for. Be sure to say why these skills are essential to possess.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
Companies are typically very specific in their job description of what they seek in a candidate, and you want to show the interviewer you have the skills they need. Avoid using skills not mentioned in the job description as your top three skills. If you describe other skills the organization is not looking for, they may pass you over for another candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"After pursuing this career for five years, I believe the top three skills one needs to be an excellent social work professional are communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills. Written and verbal communication is essential when writing reports and speaking with clients. Excellent social work professionals have the interpersonal skills to work with diverse groups, actively listen, collaborate with others, and find solutions to an individual's problem."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Discovery
21. Are you available to work weekends when needed?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Being involved in a social work internship, you must be flexible and available to work weekends, holidays, and overtime when needed. Most internships will have a set schedule depending on the organization, but some internships may require a flexible schedule. The interviewer asks this question to see that you are a team player and dedicated to your profession.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on assuring the interviewer you understand the nature of the business and that working a non-traditional schedule is part of the job. Let them know that you are flexible with your schedule and willing to work whatever hours they need, including weekends.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you want to be considered for the position, it is best to avoid saying that you cannot work weekends without explaining why. If you have a personal obligation such as caring for a child or family member or attending classes on the weekends, describe your situation to the interviewer and explain how you will look for help with your child or family member or talk with your professor on the weekends you need to work. If you are honest in the interview, the interviewer will understand if there are some weekends you might not be able to work.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"I attend a hybrid MSW course on the weekends, so it will be difficult for me to work weekends until I complete that course. I have four more months of that course, and then I would be available to work whenever needed."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Discovery
22. Why are you pursuing a career in social work?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear your reasons for choosing this profession to understand what motivated and inspired you to pursue this career. They want to hear if you were mentored by a social worker if you have family or friends who work in this industry, if you or others close to you faced poverty or violence, or if you were told about this career from a guidance counselor or professor.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
The interviewer wants to gain insight into your background and the motivating factor in pursuing a social worker career. Give a brief story on why you chose to dedicate yourself to this field. Focus your answer on describing your personal reason for choosing this career path.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid saying that you are pursuing a career in social work to help others. Interviewers know that people who enter this field want to help others, but they want to hear your personal reason and commitment to pursuing this career. Many social workers enter the field due to past experiences in their lives. The interviewer wants to understand what challenges you or others close to you have faced that directed you to choose this profession.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have a younger brother that abused drugs and alcohol, and he became clean with the help of counseling and a social worker who worked with him through his recovery. Seeing how the counselors and social worker changed my brother's life for the better made me want to pursue a career as a social worker so I could help others achieve sobriety and live healthier lives."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Education
23. Are you CPR certified, and if so, is your certification current?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to ensure you meet their job requirements. If the interviewer asks this question, being CPR certified must be a requirement for the position. If CPR certification is required, it will be mentioned in the job description, so you know this before applying.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
If you are certified in CPR, focus on telling the interviewer how long you have been certified and when your certificate is up for renewal. If you have not been CPR certified or your certification has lapsed, assure the interviewer that you will make an appointment to take a course immediately after your interview.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying you have CPR certification if you do not or if your certification has expired. The interviewer will want copies of all certificates and degrees, and you do not want to be found being untruthful.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I was CPR certified 10 years ago. My certification is current for another two years because I renewed it last month."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Education
24. Tell me about your education.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to determine if you have the education needed to be considered for a social work Internship. They want to hear if you have a degree, certificates, or any other specialized training that qualifies you to work in this field. Before you applied for the position, you must have met the minimum requirements the agency needs to work as an intern with their organization. Assure the interviewer you have met the educational requirements for the position.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing what degree you have obtained in social work or if you have attended a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). If you are currently working towards your master's degree, describe where you are in the process.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
Carefully review the job announcement before the interview to ensure you meet the agency's needs. You want to avoid not having the minimum educational requirements for the position. For example, if the qualifications for the job are to be currently enrolled in an MSW program with a focus on school social work, you want to make sure you meet those requirements.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"I received my BSW from Pacific Union College last year and am currently in an MSW program at Humboldt State University with a focus on school social work."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
General
25. This concludes our interview. Do you have any questions for me?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to make sure that all of your questions about the organization or the social work internship position are answered during the interview. It is best to ask a question or two, showing the interviewer your eagerness to learn all you can. Of course, you want to review the job announcement and research the company beforehand so you are not asking questions that could be answered during your research.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on asking questions specific to the role you are interviewing for or the company culture and work environment. Examples of good questions are asking the interviewer how you performed in the interview or if you need to clarify anything, asking what the interviewer likes most about working for the company, or if they have any hesitancy about hiring you.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid asking questions about salary, stipend, or benefits. The salary or stipend and benefits package is often listed on the job announcement or discussed with human resources when offered the position. If you ask about money or the benefits package, it makes the interviewer think you are most interested in the monetary aspect of the job.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I do have a question. Thank you for asking. After everything we have gone over in this interview, do you have any hesitancy in offering me the position?"
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
General
26. What can you tell me about our organization?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see if you have researched their organization before your interview. They want to hire a person to do a social work Internship that is eager to learn all they can about the organization they will be working for.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on providing a brief but in-depth synopsis of the organization. Describe the target population the organization serves, the communities they work with, the mission and vision statement, and the organization's values. Review the company website, read online reviews, and carefully look over the job description that may give helpful insight into the organization that you can use in your response.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid not being able to give a response to this question. If you have not researched the organization before your interview, the interviewer will determine that you do not seem enthusiastic about the position and offer it to another candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"Your organization is a national, nonprofit organization that provides hunger relief in the United States. You have a network of over 200 food banks and 60,000 partner agencies that provide over 6.6 billion meals to tens of millions of people per year. Your organization is an advocate that protects people from going hungry, and your mission is to work, serve, and thrive."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Operational
27. How would you describe your organizational skills?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
During your social work internship and when working as a social worker, you must be organized. You will be tasked with many cases and clients, and you will need to be organized to keep your files and caseloads in proper order. The interviewer wants to hear how you describe your organizational skills to determine if you will be an asset to their organization if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing the methods you use to stay organized. Let the interviewer know that you prioritize being organized and that it is essential in your profession. You might use project management software, a day planner, a filing system, Dropbox, write to-do lists, or use spreadsheets to organize your caseloads. The interviewer wants to feel confident that you are organized and will not become overwhelmed during your internship.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
You want to avoid saying you are a disorganized person. If you do not have organizational skills, the interviewer will feel that a social work internship may be too demanding for you. If your organizational skills need improvement, it is best to work on improving those skills before interviewing for an internship. You can research different organizational tools to help get you started, watch videos on organizing your workload, read books on organizing, or speak with your mentor on improving those skills.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have excellent organizational skills. While going to college and working full-time, I found it necessary to have a plan to stay organized. I write to-do lists and prioritize work that needs to be accomplished, which I review and update every night before going to bed. The next morning I have a set plan in place of what I need to do throughout the day. I also use an online calendar to schedule appointments, school work, and meetings, which is synced to my phone to receive alerts."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Operational
28. Can you work independently, or do you prefer to be closely supervised?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Many agencies post they are looking for candidates who are self-starters and can work independently. While working in a team environment is also required as you collaborate with coworkers, clients, and family members, agencies want social work professionals who can conduct independent risk assessments, interview clients, and question family members. The interviewer asks this question to see that you can work independently and not need to be closely supervised if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing that you work well independently and work well with teams. The interviewer wants to hear that you can work in different types of situations but that you do not need close supervision. While a social work internship will require supervision, it will also require you to learn quickly and not be dependent on your mentor.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
If you want to be considered for the position, avoid saying that you require close supervision. The interviewer wants to hire a candidate who is comfortable working alone but knows when to ask a supervisor for assistance with a case.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am very comfortable working independently. I have worked in the social work field for five years and have always worked alone, except for when I need to collaborate with law enforcement or other agencies. I work well in a team environment as well as independently. I do not prefer close supervision as I am confident in my skills as a social worker. If I have a question or require assistance from my supervisor, I do not hesitate to ask them."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Operational
29. How would you describe your communication skills?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see that you have strong oral and written communication skills required for social work internship positions. Your job duties will include speaking with clients, family members, and other social work professionals. You will also need to have excellent documentation and report writing skills. The interviewer wants to hear that you have the necessary communication skills for the role.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing your written and oral communication skills. If you have a former supervisor who commented on your excellent communication skills in a letter of recommendation or performance review, use their description in your response. The interviewer wants to know that you can speak clearly with others while properly documenting reports and other forms of written communications.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid saying your communication skills could use improvement. The interviewer will pass you over for another candidate if you have poor communication skills. If you need to strengthen your communication skills, you might want to enroll in a leadership course, public speaking class, or read or watch a video on improving your communication skills.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have been told I have exceptional communication skills. In my last performance review, my former supervisor wrote that I communicate clearly and concisely with clients and co-workers. She wrote that I have impeccable documentation skills, which rarely require clarification. I took a communications course in college, which helped strengthen and develop my skills."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Situational
30. How do you handle a dispute with a co-worker or supervisor?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It is not uncommon for coworkers or supervisors to have a dispute or disagreement with someone they work with. The interviewer knows this and wants to see how you have handled disputes in the past. How you respond gives the interviewer insight into your problem-solving, communication, and conflict resolution skills, which are essential skills to possess during your social work internship.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on giving a detailed explanation of how you handled a past disagreement with a supervisor or coworker. You do not necessarily need to describe the reason for the dispute, just how you dealt with it. The interviewer wants to hear that you dealt with the conflict privately, calmly, maturely and that there was a resolution. If you have not had a dispute with a coworker or supervisor in the past, use an example of how you handled a disagreement with a friend, classmate, neighbor, or family member.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
What to Avoid
You do not want to say that you avoid or ignore disagreements or get angry when a dispute arises in the workplace. The interviewer does not want to hear that you lack conflict resolution and communication skills. You also want to avoid speaking poorly of the person you had the dispute with or placing the blame solely on the other individual. You need to be responsible and recognize your part in the conflict.
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022
Answer Example
"Fortunately, I have never had a dispute with a coworker or supervisor. However, I had a dispute with a classmate while working on a group assignment. I handled it by recognizing we had an issue and asked my classmate to speak in private. I calmly asked him why he thought we had a conflict and what we could do to resolve the issue. There was a misunderstanding in our respective roles within the group, and my classmate thought I was trying to do his job. Once we cleared up who was responsible for each role, we never had an issue again and have remained good friends."
Written by Krista Wenz on March 20th, 2022