An individual has requested that the employment support professional is present during a face-to-face interview.

According to the APSE Employment Support Professional (CESP) certification handbook1, one of the core values and principles of practice is to respect the individual’s right to self-determination and informed choice. This means that the employment support professional should support the individual’s preferences and goals, and not impose their own opinions or decisions on them. Therefore, the employment support professional should not answer the questions for the individual (A), disclose the individual’s disability without their consent (B), or discourage the individual from seeking their assistance (D). The most appropriate way to provide support is to explain their role in the process and to provide support as needed after the individual introduces themselves ©. This way, the employment support professional can help the individual prepare for the interview, clarify any questions or concerns, and facilitate communication and accommodation if necessary234. However, the employment support professional should also respect the individual’s autonomy and let them take the lead in the interview as much as possible23. References:

APSE Employment Support Professional (CESP) certification handbook

Face-to-Face Interviewing | Business Communication Skills for Managers

How to Conduct a Face-to-Face Interview Best Practices - BerniePortal

Interview advice | National Careers Service