Counselor Interview Preparation Guide
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Counselor related Frequently Asked Questions in various Counselor job interviews by interviewer. The set of questions here ensures that you offer a perfect answer posed to you. So get preparation for your new job hunting

41 Counselor Questions and Answers:

1 :: How Would You Handle a Student Reporting Abuse by a Parent?

No one said being a guidance counselor would be easy. You are required to maintain certain confidentialities for your students, but allegations of abuse must be taken seriously. Although you are bound by law to report abuse to the appropriate authorities, remember that every school is different, and there may be protocols to follow.
If you are asked any questions of this nature, first explain that you would go to your direct supervisor and review school policy to ensure you are balancing your legal obligations with school rules. Don't forget to address how you would console and help the student immediately while they're in your care, in addition to the actions you would take once they leave your office. Perhaps you will keep tissues and doodads on your desk to help the student feel more comfortable while they're speaking with you. Think about the question before answering and keep your focus on what is best for the student.

2 :: What do you know about this university? Why did you apply for this position? What do you expect will be the greatest challenges and rewards of this job?

Research questions asked me to draw on my knowledge about the positions, departments, and universities where I applied. As the name suggests, I prepared for these questions by doing extensive research, which included researching university websites, reading news articles written about the universities, and reaching out to contacts who worked there. Just as important, I used the information that I gleaned from this research to highlight my qualifications for the positions.

3 :: Why should I hire you as Counselor?

This question is all about selling yourself. Why should someone hire you? Are you brilliant at organization? Are you proficient at Microsoft Office with excellent use of Powerpoint and Excel? Are you creative and do you really think you could add value to the company?
By looking at the job description that was given to you, try to point out your strengths by using examples of work you've done in relation to the requirements for this role.
One way of answering this question is: "I believe that I meet the requirements listed in your job description and I feel that I will really excel in this role because I particularly enjoy working for you."
Again, adapt this question to suit the role you are applying for. Be enthusiastic in your answer. Be positive and confident. If you cannot convince yourself that you'd be perfect for the role, you will never be able to convince the person who is considering whether to hire you.

4 :: What is your biggest weakness as Counselor?

This is known as a negative question, one that interviewers love asking to test your ability to stay cool. We all have weaknesses. Let's face it, we're not all perfect. But that doesn't mean that yours should get in the way of your dream job. Think about how you can spin your weaknesses into something positive.
Look at the job description to hand and choose one required responsibility you feel you could improve on. Are you shy about making public presentations? Does your time management need a little work? Do you feel you would benefit from Microsoft Office training?
An example of the answer can be (depending on your weakness): "I am aware that my skills with Microsoft Excel and Powerpoint are not up to advanced level but this is something that I'm working on by teaching myself in my spare time."
Avoid being a perfectionist or simply saying, "I have no weaknesses I know of." This only makes you look arrogant and overconfident.

5 :: Tell us about your educations?

Ma in applied sociology, trained to evaluate and survey community organizations.

6 :: How well do you know our institute?

Other than being a Graduate of the University and the knowledge that one would attain over the years rather it be through recreational situation or academic excellence as far as the ratings of professor putting all that knowledge aside I would say I pretty broad understanding of the University's major academic programs.

7 :: How do you evaluate students?

I would evaluate students based on the fact finding questions I would ask to find out their interest are and what their goals they have for their future. With the information the student has given me, I would be able to help guide them in the right direction.

8 :: What experience have you had with college aged students? How do you think it will help you as an admissions counselor?

If you have relevant experience, go ahead and flaunt it! If you don't have it, do not worry. Mention any volunteer work that involved working with youth or any campaigns or co curricular activities you participated in, or trained your juniors in as a student.

9 :: What in Your Job or Life Experience Makes You More Qualified for This Job than Your Peers?

The truth is that the single most important qualification for a guidance counselor is a degree and certification. School boards have requirements that must be met in order to qualify for the position.
As a result, you can expect that everyone else who will be interviewed for the role will have the same kind of educational background that you have. Most interviewers will want to know what makes you a better choice.
A great guidance counselor will have experience working with students from a variety of socio-economic backgrounds. Experience in the working world outside of the bubble of education can make you better at helping students recognize their own interests, and should be a focus in your answer. Experience in extracurricular activities while you were a student including working part time, participating in sports and clubs and activities outside of school all make you more well-rounded, and a better role model for your students.

10 :: Share one of your rewarding experiences while working in the field?

In the field of admission counseling, every case is rewarding, mention any one of your choice, but build your answer in a way so as to highlight your job specific skills.