Which of the following best describes the initial steps during intake interviewing?

The initial steps during intake interviewing focus primarily on building rapport and gathering essential information about the client. Collecting background information on the client is a critical step as it helps the interviewer understand the client's personal history, experiences, and specific needs. This foundational understanding is vital for developing an effective plan tailored to the client's situation.

During the intake process, the interviewer may gather information about the client’s educational background, work history, medical conditions, and any other relevant aspects that could impact their vocational rehabilitation journey. This comprehensive background information is essential for planning services, identifying potential barriers, and ultimately guiding the client toward achieving their vocational goals.

In contrast, conducting physical examinations is typically not part of the intake interview and is more relevant to health assessments. Setting up a training schedule or evaluating job placement readiness are actions that would occur later in the rehabilitation process, once sufficient background information has been collected and specific needs have been identified. Thus, gathering background information stands out as the most appropriate activity for the initial steps of the intake interview.