Change is inevitable, but…
Change is an inevitable part of any journey, and it’s with mixed emotions that we bid farewell to Abby and Elise. Abby has left us to pursue an exciting new position at a local museum, and Elise is moving on to new opportunities. While we will miss them both, we are delighted to welcome two new faces to our team: Kiara and Shannon.
Change Can Be Refreshing
While transitions can be bittersweet, they also bring fresh energy, new perspectives, and the promise of growth. As we embark on the journey of hiring and training new team members again, Mikelle, Maryann, Liz, and I reflect on our team’s ever-evolving nature and the unique qualities each person brings.
Elise is preparing to move back to her city of origin. We reflect on her positive impact during her time with us. Elise is a tall, slender beacon of creativity and grace whose artistic talent has left an indelible mark on our team and work.
Abby has been an integral part of our team, and saying goodbye is never easy. Her dedication, compassion, and unwavering support have helped shape our community. Abby’s next chapter is filled with exciting opportunities, and while we’ll miss her dearly, we’re also cheering her on as she takes on new challenges.
Update:
Abby is returning for a few monthly overnights starting in November, and Elise is filling in occasionally.
Farewell
As we bid farewell to Abby and Elise, we’re excited to welcome Kiara and Shannon into the fold. From the moment we met Kiara, her tender and loving nature stood out. Her quiet strength instantly puts others at ease, and her genuine care for those around her is palpable. In our Shining Beautiful Community, having someone who leads with empathy is invaluable. We are confident Kiara’s gentle approach will resonate deeply with our team and Mikelle. Her kindness is mighty, and we are eager to see how her presence will enrich our environment.
Welcome
Then there’s Shannon—full of life, with a big personality that lights up any room she enters. Shannon brings a dynamic energy that’s impossible to ignore. Her energy and heart of gold drive her passion for helping others. She’s not just a people person; she’s an artist and a metal sculptor, bringing creativity and flair into everything she does.
We look forward to seeing how Shannon’s artistic talents will inspire our team and contribute to our mission. Her enthusiasm is contagious, and her creative spirit will undoubtedly bring fresh, innovative ideas. Her companion, Little Dude, will get another dog into Mikelle’s home.
Training new team members is always a learning experience—not just for them but for us. Maryann and Liz, our senior team members, set an excellent tone for our recruits. They are fantastic role models and emerging leaders in nursing and healthcare management. Their example reminds us of patience, clear communication, and adapting to diverse learning styles.
Here are our tips for hiring new team members.
We’ve learned valuable lessons about bringing new caregivers into an established team as we welcome Kiara and Shannon. Here are a few tips that have helped us ensure a smooth transition:
1. Clearly Define the Role: Our Craigslist ad sets the tone for what Mikelle seeks in a team member. The ad’s title is: Want $22 an hour to start? Must love coffee, Gilmore Girls, and the Broncos. The ad further details the job responsibilities and details. A request for a cover letter telling us why they are interested in the position helps us eliminate those who post mass resumes in response to the numerous ads for caregivers. The title helps us stand out in a crowded field of open positions. Maryann or I will follow up with potential applicants to further clarify the job before we invite them for an interview with Mikelle. If the applicant looks promising, we ask them to listen to a podcast and visit this website to assist them in deciding if this is the job for them.
A detailed job description upfront helps avoid confusion, ensuring candidates understand what’s expected and how they can contribute.
2. Focus on Soft Skills: While technical skills are essential, qualities like empathy, communication, and patience are equally vital in caregiving roles. These skills foster meaningful connections with Mikelle, me, and our teammates. Over time, the team understood how important they are for setting expectations and building trust.
3. Cultural Fit with the Team: We prioritize candidates who align with our team’s values and culture. New hires must complement the team dynamic while bringing their strengths and perspectives. Having some turnover is healthy for a team that keeps new ideas flowing and supports Mikelle’s opportunities for growth and expansion of her community and skill sets.
4. Assess Problem-Solving Skills: Caregiving often requires quick thinking. We ask scenario-based questions during interviews to evaluate how candidates handle unexpected challenges. This helps us understand their level of maturity, creativity, and willingness to ask for help if needed.
5. Check for Flexibility: The caregiving environment can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to find individuals who can adapt to shifting schedules and Mikelle’s needs.
6. Involve Senior Caregivers: Maryann and Liz are invaluable during the hiring process. Their experience and insight ensure we find caregivers who will blend well into our team and minimize the challenges of Mikelle’s need to adapt to a new person providing intimate care.
7. Thorough Background and Reference Checks: Safety is paramount. We conduct thorough background checks and speak to previous employers to ensure we hire trustworthy individuals. Mikelle’s team members are paid through a Medicaid waiver program that requires background checks.
8. Structured Onboarding Process: A strong onboarding program helps new team members integrate quickly and efficiently. Providing procedural training and time to connect with the team and clients is essential. Typically, the newcomers receive 40 hours of training with all team members and demonstrate skill attainment before they work with Mikelle without supervision. During these times, I remain accessible for those just-in-case moments.
9. Encourage Open Communication: Regular check-ins with new caregivers allow for open dialogue, helping us address concerns and provide support during the transition.
10. Promote Ongoing Training: We foster a culture of continuous learning, offering opportunities for professional development to keep our caregivers’ skills sharp and relevant.
With Kiara’s tender heart and Shannon’s vibrant creativity, we are excited about the blend of skills and personalities joining our team. These unique qualities make our organization special, and we are looking forward to discovering how Kiara and Shannon will carve out their paths and make their mark.
As we progress, we are grateful for the opportunity to work with such talented individuals. Each new chapter is a chance to learn, grow, and continue building an effective team that reflects our values. Goodbye, Abby and Elise—you’ve been a wonderful part of our story, and we wish you all the best. Hello, Kiara and Shannon. Welcome to the team! We’re excited to have you on board and can’t wait to see all the amazing things we’ll accomplish together. Here’s to new beginnings and the adventures that lie ahead!