In this post
How to Ace an Aged Care Job Interview
Kristen Michaelides
You’ve finished your aged care course, and you’re ready to jump into the workforce. But just like any other job, you have to go through an interview process.
Since this is an aged care interview, there’ll be specific questions that relate directly to your course. Here are some interview tips that can show potential employers that you’re the right person for their aged care facility.
1. Make a good first impression
Even though you’re going for a more specialised interview, general job interview tips still apply here. Factors such as firm eye contact, good posture, and open body language are all necessary if you want to ace that interview.
Before you even get to your interview, ensure that you look presentable. You should wear clean and practical clothes, such as a simple plain t-shirt and pants. You’ll usually have to wear these types of clothes at an aged care job anyway.
The day before your interview set the alarm, so you get to the interview ten minutes early. This will show your potential employer how serious you are about the job. It’s also a good time for you to prepare yourself for the interview mentally.
And of course, always remain courteous, especially in this career path. You’ll want to show your interviewer that you can build strong bonds with your patients.
How to Start a Career in Aged Care
Always wanted to help people in your career? The aged care industry is growing incredibly fast, and needs caring people like you.
2. Prepare for general interview questions
Usually, your interviewer is going to start with some more general questions that don’t necessarily pertain to aged care. For example, your interviewer will most likely say, “Tell me about yourself”, and you might wonder, “What exactly do I say to that?”.
Think about where your interests lie, and if you can, relate it to aged care. You don’t want to overdo though. You want to give just enough information to provide some insight into who you are, like hobbies and education – but not to take up too much of their time.
You should plan your responses and practice in front of a mirror. Even better, ask someone you trust for their opinion. While you’re at it, you should also think of questions you want to ask your interviewer. They usually leave time at the end of your interview for you to ask questions, which is the perfect opportunity to express your interest in the position.
Here are some other common interview questions asked in aged care job interviews:
- What is your greatest strength?
- What is your greatest weakness?
- How do you handle conflict in the workplace?
- Why do you want to work for us?
- In your opinion, what qualities are essential for this role?
- Describe a situation where you showed teamwork
- What distinguishes you from other potential employees?
- How do you work under stress?
- Where do you see yourself in the next few years?
- Describe a situation where you displayed your leadership skills
Many of these questions aim to see whether or not you have the general qualities suitable for the role. Many hiring managers in the aged care field are looking for people who are team players, with excellent time management and organisational skills. They also seek candidates who show a strong sense of empathy.
3. Prepare for specialised interview questions
These are examples of more specific questions to aged care:
- What got you interested in aged care in the first place?
- How would you go about telling your patient how to lead a healthy lifestyle?
- Are you able to explain the principles of handling?
- What did you do for work experience? How would you describe it?
- Can you explain the principles of infection control?
- What would you say are your primary responsibilities to your patients?
- If a client is getting hostile, what would you do?
- How would you ensure that your patient is getting quality personal care?
4. Follow up after your interview
Just like with any other interview, you should contact your recruiter a couple of days after. You don’t need to write a lot, just a short little e-mail thanking them for their time and when you’ll hear back from them again.
Don’t get too disheartened if you don’t get the job right away. Many people have to go through multiple interviews to finally land a job. See it as a way to gain experience in an interview setting.
At the same time, don’t think you won’t get it, especially if this is your first time applying for a job after your coursework. One of the best things you can bring to your interview is a positive attitude.
So, in saying that, good luck.
7 Things You Should Know About a Career in Aged Care
The aged care industry can be demanding and challenging, but the abundance of rewards make it such a gratifying career.
Explore the seven things you should know about a career in aged care.
Browse Aged Care Results
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (Melbourne Only) CHC30121
Are you patient, flexible and wanting to help nurture our future generation? Our CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a course designed for entry-level into the early childhood education and care industry. As a childcare wo...
Certificate IV in School Based Education Support (Class Based and Self-Paced) CHC40221
The qualification CHC40221 – Certificate IV in School Based Education Support is referred to in industry as the Cert 4 Education Support or your teacher’s aide course. Education support workers assist teachers and support student learning in a range of...
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (Melbourne Only) CHC50121
Are you passionate about offering children the best opportunities for their individual development? Our CHC50121 – Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care course is designed to train students in all aspects of childcare, from providing for care t...
Diploma of Social Media Marketing 10904NAT
Created by the world’s leading social media experts, all of whom feature on the Forbes Top 50 Social Media Power Influencers list, AIM’s 10904NAT Diploma of Social Media Marketing is the only formal, nationally recognised qualification designed to help...
Diploma of Project Management (Blended) BSB50820
AIM is excited to introduce the blended approach to the BSB50820 – Diploma of Project Management! Complement your learning experience AIM’s new blended approach to the BSB50820 Diploma of Project Management. Now delivered with a dedicated 5-day w...
Diploma of Project Management BSB50820
Projects are critical components of an organisation’s business strategy so their success has great influence over organisational performance. The BSB50820 Diploma of Project Management from AIM will equip you with the broad range of skills required to...
Diploma of Leadership and Management BSB50420
With the latest theories and practical approaches to management, AIM’s BSB50420 Diploma of Leadership and Management is a nationally recognised business qualification designed to help plan, execute and evaluate your own work and the work of your team....
Diploma of Human Resources Management BSB50320
If you’re looking to step into the exciting and dynamic world of human resource management, then this is the ideal qualification for you. Designed to teach essential expertise and strategic human resources skills and accredited by the Australian HR Ins...
Diploma of Business BSB50120
If you’re looking to establish your own business or set yourself up for a workplace promotion, this qualification is designed to help you stand out from the crowd and achieve long term career success. By addressing the broad skills needed in dynamic bu...
Diploma of Artificial Intelligence 11287NAT
Artificial Intelligence is no longer the future – it’s the key to driving success today. AI is transforming the way businesses operate, and those who understand how to harness its potential are leading the way. AIM’s 11287NAT Diploma of Artificial Inte...
Advanced Diploma of Leadership and Management BSB60420
Organisations in every industry are looking for individuals with the right management capabilities and real leadership potential. That’s why the BSB60420 Advanced Diploma of Leadership and Management is the ideal qualification to enhance your key skill...
Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety BSB41419
If your role requires you to manage Work Health and Safety within your organisation, or you want to transition into a safety advisor role, this qualification will provide you the broad knowledge and skills to be recognised. AIM’s BSB41419 Certificate I...
Certificate IV in Training and Assessment TAE40122
Continuous development and upskilling is now a regular element of modern-day employment, making workers with capable training abilities vital for every organisation. AIM’s TAE40122 Certificate IV in Training and Assessment is designed to enhance a broa...
Certificate IV in Sustainable Operations MSS40122
More than just a buzzword, sustainability can be a powerful initiative to enforce real benefits both within and beyond your organisation. Sustainability practices empower businesses to improve their operations through cost reduction, social sustainabil...
Certificate IV in Project Management Practice BSB40920
Based around an industry leading project management methodology (PMBoK®), AIM’s BSB40920 Certificate IV in Project Management Practice is the perfect way to learn project management skills that can be used in a wide variety of contexts and is endorsed...
Certificate IV in Leadership and Management BSB40520
Team leaders and frontline managers are a vital link between employees and senior management in every organisation. This qualification has been developed to provide you with the comprehensive skills you’ll need to lead, guide and support your own team...
Certificate IV in Human Resource Management BSB40420
If you’re looking for the ideal entry point into a fulfilling career in human resources, this qualification is designed to provide you with a solid understanding of human resource management across a range of industries and businesses. AIM’s BSB40420 C...
Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping FNS40222
This qualification is designed with your future in mind, offering more than just an education – it is a direct pathway to the financial services sector. Whether you are entering the field or advancing your career, AIM has a proven track record of help...
Self-Care: During Times of Uncontrollable Change
This course is designed to provide individuals with essential tools for managing personal well-being during times of significant life changes. The content focuses on understanding the emotional and psychological impacts of transitions, grief, and loss...
Mental Health in the Classroom: A Guide for Educators
This course is designed to equip educators with essential knowledge to understand and support students’ mental health in the classroom. The content covers the psychological and emotional challenges students may face and offers strategies for fostering...
Online courses also available
Latest Articles
Agriculture Careers: What You Should Know in 2025
As one of Australia's most important industries, the agriculture industry offers great career opport...
Are Digital Skills the Key to Job Security in 2025?
The digital revolution is here, and it doesn’t care if you have a technical job or not — it’s coming...
How to Become a Chef in Australia: Complete Guide for 2025
The complete guide to becoming a chef in Australia. Learn how to get your start and make it in the h...
Want to read more?
5 Alternative Methods To Get Your Next Dream Hire
Whether you're looking to expand your business through recruiting or job seeking and want the inside...
Selection Criteria Response: Customer Service Principles
Want to find out what it takes to write a solid selection criteria response for a customer service j...
How To Prepare For a Video Interview
With 40% of organisations and employers upgrading to this employment tool within the recruitment pro...
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
Get expert advice, insights, and explainers on tricky topics — designed to help you navigate your learning journey with confidence.
