As a previous home care provider, I know firsthand how hard it is to find reliable caregivers. I posted ads to the local newspaper. I posted to Indeed. You name it, I did it. I even hosted job fairs, and “maybe” two or three people would show up. It was the most frustrating thing.
One day, while alone in my office, I began writing down all the things that had not worked for me. I started to think outside of the box. While staring at my pad of things that did not work, it can to me to jot down why they were not working. I came up with 3 ideas, and they actually worked!!
1. I was holding my job fairs during the week. Most people are already at work at that time but may need a second job and are unable to attend. I decided to do a job fair on a Saturday and had a massive turnout! From then on, Saturday it was.
2. I partnered with the Unemployment Office. Where do most people go that are out of work? Duh! Yes, I created a partnership and had job fairs with them, at their offices. They did most of the marketing for me. It was a total success. I was also able to find administrative staff.
3. I saved the best for last. I partnered with four-year nursing schools. Nurses must first become certified as caregivers, so why not? These were the absolute BEST CAREGIVERS EVER!! They were smart, dependable and compassionate; everything you need and want in a caregiver. Not to mention observant.
So, reach out to your local unemployment offices, your local nursing schools, and start having those job fairs on Saturdays. And don’t forget to use your social media to tag and tweet the school. FYI, they repost for their students. I hope this helps someone that is suffering from caregiver shortages. Happy Hiring!