When working as a self-employed carer, you’ll need to become accustomed to having an interview of sorts with all of your potential clients. Not only is this a prime opportunity for your clients to decide if you’re the right fit for themselves or the person they’re arranging care for, but it’s also a good opportunity for you to decide if they’re suitable for you, too.
Below, we’ve outlined 10 questions to expect when you’re meeting clients for the first time as a self-employed carer – plus at the end, a few questions that you might want to ask in return.
Read first: how to become a self-employed carer.
Questions to Expect As A Self-Employed Carer
Here are ten questions you should be prepared to answer during an interview or client meeting, along with tips on how to respond effectively.
1. What Experience Do You Have in Care Work?
Clients will want to know about your background in providing care. Be ready to discuss your previous roles, the types of clients you’ve supported, and any relevant experiences.
Highlight specific situations where you’ve made a difference and focus on your ability to tailor care to individual needs.
2. Are You Comfortable with the Specific Tasks I Need Help With?
Every client’s needs are different, so expect questions about your ability to perform particular tasks. This could include personal care, help with mobility, or household duties.
Be honest about your abilities and experience in performing these tasks, and reassure the client that you are adaptable and willing to learn if needed.
3. What Training or Qualifications Do You Have?
Clients may ask about any formal training or certifications you hold, such as first aid, manual handling, or safeguarding qualifications.
Highlight any relevant training, even if it’s informal, and be prepared to discuss how these qualifications enhance the care you provide. You can refer to organisations like Skills for Care to showcase relevant industry standards.
4. Are You Self-Employed, and Do You Have the Necessary Insurance?
Clients will want to confirm your self-employed status and whether you have the appropriate insurance, such as public liability insurance, to cover your work.
Be clear about your self-employed setup, ensuring the client knows they won’t be responsible for taxes or employment benefits. Provide proof of your insurance if requested.
5. How Do You Manage Your Schedule and Availability?
Clients may ask about your availability, particularly if they need flexible hours or emergency support. They’ll want to ensure you can meet their care needs without significant delays.
Provide clear information about your working hours, flexibility, and how you handle emergencies. If you have a set availability, communicate that upfront to manage expectations.
6. How Do You Ensure Quality and Consistency in Your Care?
Expect clients to ask how you maintain a high standard of care. This could involve discussing your daily routines, communication methods, and how you handle feedback or suggestions for improvement.
Describe your approach to providing consistent, person-centred care, and reassure the client that their needs and preferences will always be a priority.
7. Can You Provide References or Testimonials?
Clients often want reassurance from past clients or employers that you’re reliable and trustworthy. Be prepared to share references or client testimonials.
Have contact details or written testimonials ready to provide. This shows professionalism and gives potential clients confidence in your abilities.
8. How Do You Handle Confidentiality and Privacy?
Clients may be concerned about how you manage sensitive information, including personal health details and family circumstances.
Reassure them that you understand the importance of confidentiality and comply with privacy regulations, such as GDPR. Explain your process for handling sensitive information securely.
9. What Is Your Payment Structure, and Do You Accept Direct Payments?
Clients using direct payments will need clarity on how you structure your rates and accept payments. Expect questions about your hourly rate, invoicing process, and any additional costs.
Be transparent about your rates and preferred payment methods, whether that’s through bank transfer, direct payment schemes, or invoicing platforms. Offering a simple payment process builds trust.
10. How Do You Approach Communication and Feedback?
Effective communication is key to providing good care, so clients may ask about your communication style and how you handle feedback or concerns.
Explain how you maintain open lines of communication, whether through regular updates, phone calls, or written reports. Emphasise that you value feedback and are open to adjusting your approach as needed.
By preparing for these questions, you can present yourself as a professional, capable, and trustworthy self-employed carer, ready to meet the needs of your clients.
Getting to Know Your Client
We know how important it is to keep detailed records about your client, from medication to personal care preferences. That’s why we launched our free Carers Booklets for any carer (customer or not!) to order and fill out your client’s details to your own records.
If you’re interested, find out more about our Carers Client Profile Booklets here and how to get your own copies.
