What is the most difficult situation you have had to face as a vocational rehabilitation counselor, and how did you tackle it?
"The job market is tough. It's hard to see my clients who are already in a challenging situation be challenged in the job market as well. I'm always up front with my clients to make them aware that securing a job can take a little while."
Every day will pose some sort of problem, that's what keeps you on your toes and makes you want to come to work each day. Have a story handy for this interview question. Tell the interviewer about the situation, how you provided support and how it ended on a positive note.
"A difficult situation I faced recently was working with an elderly client that had just suffered "‹a stroke. After working with her for many months it was still hard to get potential employers to see past her age and it took longer than expected to place her in meaningful employment. The client and I had effective and positive sessions and I provided assistance and encouragement the whole way."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
Getting the interviews. The only thing that has worked thus far is putting in as many applications as the client is willing to. I also make follow-up communications if there is a way. I search job announcements for phone numbers & email addresses. I keep follow-ups to 1 or 2x/wk. I am always trying to create a way around the typical interview process once the application is complete. I have tried to follow up calls with employment managers, requesting a working interview, or for my client to be permitted to volunteer. This is generally flatly refused.
I have attempted to attend meetings of the Diversity and Inclusion council of the Aurora Chamber of Commerce, but schedule anomalies on my side and theirs have precluded this option.
Involving all stakeholders, especially controlling interests such as guardians; from the very beginning has been key.
General application follow-ups have worked best thus far.
Stephanie's Feedback
This is a tricky situation, and you do a good job of illustrating how you've tackled it. To strengthen your response, I suggest adding a closing sentence that shows more about the impacts of your actions. How have these steps improved outcomes for your clients?
