Staffing Shortages are troubling for Home Health, Hospice, and Homecare agencies

Cheryl Peltekis, RN “The Solutionist”

I have spoken to so many agencies over the last month who are really in dire need of staffing. People are trying to get creative with ads that are just so unique.

One of the ways they have shared with me that are bringing them great results is humor in the ad.

Full-time Home Health Aide Needed

There is no need to apply if you don’t have reliable transportation, if your car is broken every week, and no babysitter can be found every weekend. Seriously, do us both a favor and go to the next agency and skip mine.   

If you can’t be thankful for the experience of helping people, then get a job where you don’t have to interact with people.

You aren’t getting paid to be on your phone all day, so if you can’t engage with people, then don’t apply.

Also, we are hiring people who want to work here for years!  We provide your health benefits, so please apply if you really want to work and do work that loves you back.

This ad is funny, right? The owner reported that this ad got more aides to respond than any he had ever used. I understand if this ad isn’t your style but you may have to mix up what you are doing with your ads to find the best candidates for your agency.

Last week, I was at a State Association meeting, and I went to 3 different presentations on recruiting and retention.

Here are some of the highlights:

• Your ads need to be no longer than four days old. On day 5, start each “help wanted post” all over.

• Place your help wanted ads for the neighborhood that you are hiring staff to serve clients.

• Use language that makes caregiving a position that makes a difference in the world.

• Make sure the ad says flexible scheduling. Many aides work for two or more agencies.

• Have a referral incentive program.

• Use LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

• Use Videos about why your company is the place to work on the website

• “No Experience Necessary” – Train and have a competency program.

I know how hard it is these days (or any days)to not have the help you need to serve patients. At the core of my being, I feel the pain of knowing that seniors are going without care.

That is why Retention is critical. As we move through the worst of the pandemic, employees are revisiting job expectations.  They want flexibility, better pay, and greater connection. They also want the chance to make a real difference in the world.

So it’s up to you to create an agency where caregivers want to work!

• Put work/life balance first.

• Continue to focus on worker and patient health and safety

• Provide them with the tools they need to do their job

• Foster loyalty with a positive working environment

• Offer mentorship and career paths

• Maintain open lines of communication

Value your staff, show them appreciation, and treat them as the essential workers they are. Need more ideas on how to improve your recruiting process?

Need help with interviewing?

Need new ideas on retaining staff?

You can buy our recruiting and retention program right here!

Keep Helping, Keep Serving,

Cheryl Pelekis, RN “The Solutionist”