Case Manager Interview and Paper
Assignment: Make arrangements with an individual who is currently working as a case manager for a social service agency or facility and conduct a face-to-face interview. Following the interview, the student will write a 2-3 page, double-spaced paper describing what the student learned about being a case manager and the case management process.
Information to be obtained: You are allowed as much freedom as possible to ask questions about issues that you would like to know more about. Review the various topics covered in this class and think about those that you might be particularly curious about, or just talk about the process of case management in general. ask questions that are appropriate and demonstrate a respect for the persons the agency serves (i.e., use person-centered language). Consider that this case manager might be someone you want to someday approach for a job, or who might be so impressed with your professionalism that they invite you to send them your resume. Leave a good impression.
Spend some time reviewing any information you can find on-line about the agency before you arrange for an interview, such as the mission, types of clients, etc. Don’t burden the person who has agreed to let you interview him or her with having to explain things that you should have taken the time to find out on your own. Again, you don’t ever want to burn your bridges so present yourself as a professional (including how you are dressed).
To help give you some ideas of what to ask about, consider the following questions:
What are the needs of the clients you work with?
What type of treatment goals do you develop with your clients?
What are the types of services you provide to your clients?
What are typically the client’s responsibilities with their plans? What are yours?
How many clients do you work with? Do they come to your office?
How did you become a case manager?
What do you like best about your job? What do you like least?
Do you have a particular ethical code you have to adhere to? How do you resolve any ethical
conflicts? Can you describe what type of ethical conflicts might arise in your work with clients?
What skills and knowledge do you think a person should have to work as a case manager?
What advice might you have for someone who is looking for a job as a case manager?
These are just some suggestions to get you started.
