The Deputy Manager role at Runwood Homes is a pivotal position that combines leadership, care, and administrative responsibilities. A Deputy Manager ensures the smooth running of care homes, supporting the manager in delivering high-quality care while overseeing staff, residents, and operational procedures. This role typically offers a competitive salary ranging from £30,000 to £38,000 per year, with opportunities for bonuses and career progression. For anyone aspiring to make a meaningful impact in the care sector, understanding the demands and expectations of this role is crucial.
To succeed in this competitive environment, preparing for your job interview with the right interview training is essential. Below, we provide 25 commonly asked questions and answers for a Deputy Manager interview at Runwood Homes, including opening questions, competency-based questions, STAR model examples, and closing questions.
1. Can you tell us a little about yourself?
This is usually the first question in any interview. Focus on your professional background, your experience in care management, and your key achievements.
Answer:
“I have over 8 years of experience in residential care management, specialising in supporting elderly residents with complex needs. In my previous role as a Senior Care Supervisor, I led a team of 15 staff, successfully improving our CQC rating from ‘Requires Improvement’ to ‘Good’ within a year. I’m passionate about creating a safe, nurturing environment and ensuring staff are motivated and supported.”
2. Why do you want to work at Runwood Homes?
Interviewers want to know your motivation and knowledge about the company.
Answer:
“I am impressed by Runwood Homes’ commitment to delivering person-centred care and maintaining high-quality standards across all its facilities. The emphasis on staff development and continuous improvement aligns perfectly with my values and experience, and I want to contribute to enhancing resident wellbeing while supporting a talented care team.”
3. How do you handle difficult staff situations?
This competency question assesses your leadership and problem-solving skills.
Answer:
“I approach difficult staff situations with active listening and empathy. I investigate the issue objectively, ensuring all parties are heard. For example, I once resolved a conflict between two senior carers by facilitating a mediation session. We agreed on new responsibilities and communication strategies, which improved teamwork and reduced absenteeism.”
4. How do you ensure compliance with CQC regulations?
Compliance is critical in care homes.
Answer:
“I maintain regular audits, staff training sessions, and updated policy reviews. I also ensure documentation is accurate and transparent. Using a proactive approach, I identify potential risks early and implement corrective actions promptly to maintain high standards and readiness for inspections.”
5. Can you give an example of how you improved care quality in a previous role?
Use the STAR model (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for structured answers.
Answer:
Situation: Our care home had received feedback about slow response times to residents’ needs.
Task: I needed to improve staff responsiveness and overall care quality.
Action: I introduced daily briefing meetings, updated care plans, and implemented a buddy system for staff.
Result: Resident satisfaction scores increased by 25% within three months, and staff engagement improved significantly.
6. How do you motivate your team?
Answer:
“I focus on positive reinforcement, setting achievable goals, and recognising achievements. Regular one-to-one meetings and feedback sessions help staff feel valued. I also encourage professional development opportunities, which boosts morale and performance.”
7. How do you manage budgets and resources?
Answer:
“I ensure accurate forecasting and monitoring of expenditure. I prioritise spending on resident care and staff training while identifying areas for cost-saving without compromising quality. Transparent reporting and involving the team in resource planning also help maintain accountability.”
8. How do you manage conflicts between staff and residents’ families?
Answer:
“I handle conflicts with empathy and professionalism, ensuring both parties feel heard. I arrange meetings to clarify concerns, provide solutions, and document all discussions. This approach helps build trust and ensures the wellbeing of residents remains the priority.”
9. How do you handle emergency situations?
Answer:
“I remain calm, assess the situation quickly, and follow the care home’s protocols. For example, during a medical emergency, I ensure immediate attention for the resident, communicate effectively with staff and emergency services, and review procedures afterward to prevent future issues.”
10. How do you approach staff performance reviews?
Answer:
“I conduct reviews regularly, focusing on strengths, areas for improvement, and career aspirations. Using clear metrics and constructive feedback ensures staff understand expectations and feel supported to grow professionally.”
11. Describe a time when you had to implement a new policy.
Answer:
Situation: A new safeguarding policy was introduced.
Task: I had to ensure the team understood and followed it.
Action: I organised training sessions, created easy-to-follow guidelines, and monitored compliance.
Result: The team adapted quickly, and there were no safeguarding breaches in the following six months.
12. What leadership style do you use?
Answer:
“I adopt a transformational leadership style, inspiring staff to take ownership of their roles while providing guidance and support. I balance empathy with accountability, creating a positive environment that promotes excellence in care.”
13. How do you handle staff shortages?
Answer:
“I proactively plan rotas, maintain a bank of trained temporary staff, and cross-train employees to cover essential roles. Communication is key, and I ensure staff feel supported rather than overburdened.”
14. How do you ensure staff adhere to health and safety standards?
Answer:
“Through regular training, audits, and clear communication of expectations. I also encourage staff to report hazards immediately and reward proactive safety practices, creating a culture of vigilance.”
15. How do you maintain effective communication with management and staff?
Answer:
“I hold regular team meetings, one-on-one sessions, and briefings for updates. I also utilise digital tools for reminders and feedback, ensuring transparency and alignment with organisational goals.”
16. Tell me about a time you handled a challenging resident situation.
Answer:
Situation: A resident was showing signs of aggression.
Task: I needed to ensure their safety and staff safety.
Action: I implemented a personalised care plan, engaged a behavioural therapist, and trained staff on de-escalation techniques.
Result: The resident’s behaviour improved, incidents decreased, and staff felt more confident in managing similar situations.
17. What are your strategies for improving resident satisfaction?
Answer:
“Regular feedback surveys, engaging activities, and personalised care plans. I involve residents and their families in care decisions, ensuring their voices are heard and acted upon.”
18. How do you stay updated on care industry regulations?
Answer:
“I subscribe to CQC updates, attend industry workshops, and maintain memberships with professional care associations. Continuous learning ensures compliance and best practice implementation.”
19. How do you handle performance under pressure?
Answer:
“I prioritise tasks, remain calm, and delegate appropriately. Effective time management and team collaboration allow me to maintain performance even during high-pressure situations.”
20. Describe a time you had to deliver difficult feedback.
Answer:
Situation: A staff member was consistently late.
Task: I needed to address the issue without demotivating them.
Action: I held a private meeting, highlighted the impact of their actions, and agreed on a plan for improvement.
Result: Punctuality improved, and the staff member appreciated the constructive approach.
21. How do you encourage staff development?
Answer:
“I create training plans tailored to individual needs, provide mentorship opportunities, and celebrate achievements. Continuous development benefits both staff and residents by improving care quality.”
22. How do you handle feedback from families?
Answer:
“I listen attentively, validate concerns, and implement solutions promptly. Keeping families informed of actions taken fosters trust and satisfaction.”
23. Can you give an example of a successful project you led?
Answer:
Situation: Introducing a dementia-friendly environment.
Task: Reduce confusion and agitation among residents.
Action: I redesigned communal areas, trained staff in dementia care, and monitored outcomes.
Result: Residents showed reduced distress, and families reported higher satisfaction.”
24. Do you have experience with quality audits?
Answer:
“Yes, I regularly conduct internal audits, review care plans, and monitor compliance. I ensure findings are shared with staff, followed up with action plans, and used to improve overall performance.”
25. Do you have any questions for us?
Answer:
“Can you share more about the team culture and development opportunities at Runwood Homes? How does the company support Deputy Managers in achieving career growth?”
Closing Advice, Dos and Don’ts for a Deputy Manager Interview
Do: Research the company, practice the STAR model, dress professionally, and demonstrate empathy and leadership.
Don’t: Criticise previous employers, speak negatively about staff, or avoid responsibility in your answers.
Remember, confidence comes from preparation, so investing in interview coaching online or job interview preparation can make a significant difference. Consider seeking advice from an experienced interview coach to refine your answers and boost your performance.
By following these tips and preparing thoroughly, you’ll be ready to impress your interviewers and secure your Deputy Manager role at Runwood Homes.
For tailored support, you can book a personalised session for interview coaching with an experienced UK career coach and benefit from interview training that focuses on your strengths: https://www.interview-training.co.uk/
