Screening Questions for Employees and Volunteers
(From U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
The following questions may be used in a written application or personal interview. A single answer should not determine whether an applicant is selected or rejected. Along with other forms of information, answers to these questions can help you build a more complete picture of an applicant.
• What type of supervisory situation do you prefer?
If applicants are very independent, they may not fit in an organization whose policies and procedures require close supervision.
• What age/sex of youth do you want to work with? How would you feel about working with a different age/sex?
If an applicant seems fixated on one age/sex, be wary. However, it may be that the applicant has experience or is gifted with working with certain age groups. Asking follow-up questions about why an applicant has a strong preference can help you determine if there is cause for concern.
• Is there anyone who might suggest that you should not work with youth? Why or why not?
• Why do you want the position?
• What would you do in a particular situation?
Set up scenarios that involve potential concerns, boundary issues, or youth protection policies and interactions to gauge the applicant’s response. Be concerned if applicants disregard the organization’s policies and procedures or handle a situation poorly.
• What makes you a good candidate for working with youth? What would your friends or colleagues say about how you interact with youth?
• What other hobbies or activities do you enjoy?
Determine if applicants have mature, adult relationships—not just relationships with youth.
content edited 1-23-2020