Interview: Trainee Debt Caseworker CAB

sarahfaith399

Good evening, I have gotten through to the final round of interviews to be a trainee Debt Caseworker with Citizens Advice.

Firstly I would love any help regarding the interview such as what questions to expect.

I imagine the usual why do you want this job and what are your skills etc but what else could they ask?


I really would appreciate any help

PHYTHIAN

Sarah

I notice you have also posted this on the Debt Free Wannabe Forum.
Unfortunately you have posted it on page 113 of 113!!

Posting it on the DFW forum is the right way to go but you'd be better off starting a New Thread.

Good luck with your interview!!

sarahfaith399

I am very new at this, thank you for your guidance

PlutoinCapricorn

They might ask whether or not you have ever been in debt yourself - not necessarily a bad thing in this particular case. They might want to assure themselves that you will not be judgmental. They might ask if you know the dangers that people in debt are in e.g. loan sharks.

suicidebob

I would have thought someone applying for such a position would already be aware of a site such as MSE.

Why not just read the site and understand the problems people are experiencing and what is being done to help them.
.

sarahfaith399

suicidebob wrote: »

I would have thought someone applying for such a position would already be aware of a site such as MSE.

Why not just read the site and understand the problems people are experiencing and what is being done to help them.
.

I have been perusing this site for many years but I have never joined as I am a very active member on another site and sdon't usually have time to sit and post across both sites.
I am full aware of why and how people get into debt.
I understand how to budget and manage money.
I know about iva and bankruptcy etc
It's more the actual interview with which I will struggle (as do most people)

The_One_Who

There may be questions about processes of debt collection, and maybe questions about priorities regarding different debts. However, you may want to consider thinking about competencies around customer service, difficult situations, team working, etc. All the usual stuff.

sarahfaith399

Thank you. I will look into debt collecting practices as it may pop up when clients have doorstep borrowed etc.

The_One_Who

^ It will pop up on every debt!

Do some research on things like options for clients, debt collection processes, what sort of information is required from a client before a case can be started, etc. I think most of that should actually be on the 'Advice Guide' website.

[Deleted User]

Didn't the application form give you any idea's? as to the questions they may cover (I applied last xmas though and remember filling in quite a lengthy form..which I normally don't do! when they were offering the unemployed a 6 month work exp) big regret I let my interview go : (

Though I've also found anything concerning debt and finance, quite frankly, to not be the easiest interview so it perhaps it will go in your favour that your detached and not experienced it before, debt I mean, looking on the bright side whilst also being able to show empathy that's the most important : )

I don't know but would expect quite a formal interview - possibly expect to be asked how you would handle stress and hearing awful account's so again detaching yourself with empathy, going by Rip of Britain - Advisor's apparently don't last long due to this after so many cases it becomes to much (Programme aired Sept 2013 and repeated last couple of weeks even on BBC1 it could be worth a glance if you can find a copy) (I'm sad I know) but people can and do go to the CAB in tears
Anyway wish you best of luck, go for it xx

jobbingmusician

1. Find out what the difference between priority and non-priority debt is, and work this into your response to another question

2. Look at the MSE SOA and think about how you would relate this to an hour's interview with a client.

3. Have a good look around the Money Advice Service's website.