Finding and hiring a care or support worker who is a good match for you or your loved one can make a big difference in terms of the care that is received. There are many things to consider including how compatible their personality is, their skills, trust, reliability and cost. We know how important it is to find and hire a good in- home care or support worker, so we’ve put together some tips to help you with the process.

Sit down and determine what is required

Determine what type of care and support is necessary for you or your loved one. Write down what type of assistance is required, what is necessary, the limitations and the expectations. Figure out what you want and what you don’t want, and if the support is for a loved one, make sure you listen and negotiate what will be the best type of care for them. There are other things you may need to consider including cost and availability so if required make sure you take those things into consideration when finding and hiring a good home care worker.

Be specific when posting a job

When posting a job on the Careseekers platform, go through and select the type of care or support you are looking for using the options (they will come up automatically as you post a job). When giving information about the job that is required, be specific about the type of care you are looking for and remember, the more information the better. When looking for a care or support worker, don’t forget to post the hours or days you require care or support, whether specific type of care is required, and whether you need someone who can drive or has their own vehicle.

Engage with care and support workers

Invite care and support workers to view your ad through the Careseekers platform and engage with them. When finding a care or support worker, be proactive and monitor responses regularly as care workers can often go quickly or take on other jobs and become unavailable. You can engage with care and support workers via our messaging system. Let them know if you are interested in hiring them, and ask any questions you may have.

Organise a phone call or meeting

Once you find a care or support worker that you think is a suitable match, organise a phone call or a meeting to see if they are a good fit for you or your loved one. Have a look at our six tips for finding a care worker who is right for you in 2019 blog, which can be used as a helpful guide. If you are unsure of what to ask, having a list of questions prepared can also be useful.

Know what questions to ask

When you find a care or support worker you are ready to connect with, have a list of questions prepared to help you get to the point. Questions that are straightforward such as “do you have experience working with someone with Alzheimer’s?”, or “do you know what to do if someone feels faint” can help you get straight to the point and find you the best care or support worker possible.

Find the right connection

Finding someone who can offer care and support is more than just finding a person with the right credentials. What is just as important is someone you connect with and someone who fits your needs. Whether it be someone who shares the same interests, someone who is patient and reliable, or someone who is understanding and compassionate, someone who you connect with is key to finding and hiring a good home care worker in 2019.

To become a care or support worker, please visit www.careseekers.com.au/carer

To find aged care services, please visit https://www.careseekers.com.au/services/aged-care-workers

To find disability support services, please visit https://www.careseekers.com.au/services/disability-support-workers