How to Answer: Take me through your experience working with high-risk youth. Do you feel well-equipped to do this job safely?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Youth Worker job interview.
23. Take me through your experience working with high-risk youth. Do you feel well-equipped to do this job safely?
What You Need to Know
The hiring authority wants to ensure that you have the foundation, knowledge, and skills required to safely perform the duties of your job as a Youth Worker. It's essential to prove, without a doubt, that you are capable of doing your work amid the ever-changing risks this job presents.
Hazards include increased violence since the Covid-19 pandemic and an increase in tainted street drugs over the years. Youth Workers have reported a rise in client overdoses and suicide rates - all significant concerns that you will need to address.
Be prepared to discuss how you have equipped yourself to handle behavioral or mental health issues. High-risk youth are at a greater risk of involvement in violence, drug, or illegal sex work. Talk about the youth-related programs you have participated in or facilitated, and how your education and training has prepared you to help others while working safely.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 21st, 2013
Entry Level Example
"I have many years' experience behind me in the field of youth work, social work, and counseling. I feel confident in my skills, and executing my job with every safety measure. I have found this career path enriching, and always challenging in the sense that it's ever-changing. I believe that further funding means better training and stronger resources for risk prevention. The issues that these kids face are forever evolving."
Written by Kevin Downey on December 9th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am continually learning and re-learning how to help this demographic better. To keep myself informed and up to date, I participate in online webinars and have created a support system within the community made up of others who work in this field. I lean on resources from a variety of public and government sources as well, and I also keep in touch with the new funding options available for my center's program. Rest assured, I will continue to educate myself and gain the support needed to provide an impact while also delivering a safe work environment for the team and a supportive environment for the youth we are helping."
Written by Kevin Downey on December 9th, 2022
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Drug awareness programs, like showing movies on drug harm, were done. Sports and games were organized."
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