Social Service Work Interviewing

Gathering information through the interview process helps identify the strengths, resources and challenges of individuals, families, groups and communities to assist them in achieving their goals. As a major component of the field of Social Service Work, students review and recognize the essential elements of a social service work interview, including the skills of active listening, open and closed questioning, awareness of body language and using empathy to build trust. Attention is also paid to relationship building and the facilitation of change while recognizing diversity. Students practice with role-play scenarios to develop and fine tune these skills in preparation for work with clients.