Work-Related Interview Skills Training for Persons with Substance Use Disorders

Feasibility of Work-Related Interviewing and Conversational Skills Trainings for Individuals With Psychiatric Disabilities

“…In Study 1 (“Presenting Qualifications”), the Perceived Interview Preparedness Questionnaire assessed participants’ confidence in their ability to get ready for an interview and to answer questions during an interview (Lu et al, 2019, 2021a, 2021b, 2020a). Sample questions included “I have a good idea about how to prepare for my job interview”; “I feel confident I can communicate my skills to an employer in a positive way”; and “I feel confident that I can answer difficult questions that an employer may ask on an interview.” Internal consistency reliability was .89 in this study.…”

“…This study implemented two curricula (“Presenting Qualifications” and “Conversing with Others”) among persons with psychiatric disorders who are receiving community mental health, vocational, or housing services. Both utilized DST as designed to help persons with psychiatric disabilities to communicate effectively to employers the skills that qualify them for a position (Oursler et al, 2019) or to engage in lunch time conversations with coworkers (Lu et al, 2020b). The study assessed the feasibility (i.e., acceptability and practicality) of the interventions in increasing perceived interview preparedness or in increasing perceived conversational ease with coworkers.…”

Group Work in Career Development — Post-School Age Populations

“…Both of the research-based articles focused on marginalized, disadvantaged, and underserved populations. Lu et al (2021) investigated the impact of a direct skills teaching approach on the job interview preparedness of 55 people with substance use disorders who traditionally face high unemployment rates. At postintervention participants reported increased confidence and knowledge about presenting themselves for a job interview.…”