Finding reliable, experienced, compassionate caregivers can be one of the biggest challenges for families. In addition to finding candidates who live near you and have the skills you need, you’ll want to find someone who is the right match – and will be a great fit for your family. The Connecticut Department of Developmental Services (DDS), which supports individuals with intellectual disabilities, partners with Rewarding Work to help families hire caregivers. With Rewarding Work, you can create compelling job listings, post them on our platform with maximum impact, and conduct a successful search for top candidates. These tips will get you started:
Start with a Stand-Out Caregiver Job Posting
Your job posting is your handshake – the first impression caregivers will have of your job. Invest the time to make your job post grab job seekers’ attention. This will increase the chance of connecting with candidates who are the perfect fit.
1. Be Clear About Job Duties
Provide a clear overview of the caregiver’s responsibilities. Will they assist with personal care, transportation, meal preparation, or recreational activities? Mention any specific skills needed, such as experience with individuals with disabilities or familiarity with medical equipment.
Example: "Seeking a reliable caregiver to assist with personal care, meal preparation, and transportation for an individual with developmental disabilities. Must have experience working with individuals with autism and be comfortable using a wheelchair lift."
2. Highlight the Schedule
Include details about the hours, days, and flexibility of the position. Caregivers are more likely to apply if they know the schedule fits their availability.
Example: "Part-time position available, 20 hours per week, with flexible scheduling. Typical hours are weekday afternoons and evenings."
3. Mention Any Special Requirements
Are there specific qualifications or certifications the caregiver should have? This might include CPR/First Aid certification, a valid driver’s license, or training in behavioral supports.
Example: "Applicants must have CPR certification, a valid driver’s license, and experience working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities."
4. Set Reasonable Requirements
What qualifications really matter to you? For example, a college degree, many years of experience, and dress codes are required for many jobs. If qualifications such as these aren’t essential to your position, consider leaving them out so that you don’t deter capable, caring candidates.
5. Share What Makes Your Caregiver Job Unique
Let candidates know why this role is special. Not all rewards of value to applicants are monetary. Small, creative benefits can suggest a caring employer and a welcoming workplace. Highlight aspects like a supportive family environment, opportunities for growth, or unique tasks they might enjoy.
Example: "This is a rewarding role in a supportive family setting, with opportunities to participate in recreational outings and community activities."
6. Post Your Caregiver Job Description
Once you have written your job description, consider posting it on Rewarding Work, the first web-based matching service directory in the nation to focus exclusively on assisting people of all ages with disabilities. This user-friendly platform makes it easy to post, edit, and manage job listings. Its directory provides access to qualified caregivers with an emphasis on connecting employers with caregivers in their community. Rewarding Work is free to anyone in Connecticut with DDS eligibility. Anyone without DDS eligibility may purchase a low-cost subscription to use the site.
[READ MORE JOB POSTING SAMPLES AND TIPS]
How to Use the Rewarding Work Job Board
1. Access Your Dashboard
Once you’ve subscribed to RewardingWork.org, log in to your dashboard and click "Post a Job" to get started.
2. Choose the Right Title for Your Job Posting
Individuals and families enrolled in CT DDS Self-Direction have the option of hiring an “Individual Goods and Services Supervisor” to help manage their staff. If you are hiring for this position, choose “Supervisor” as your Job Type. Other job posting titles to choose from include Caregiver, Companion, Respite Worker, Job Coach, and Skills Trainer.
3. Post Your Caregiving Job:
Jobs stay active for 30 days, but you can unpublish them if you hire quickly, edit the posting if your needs change, and extend your posting for an additional 30 days if necessary.
4. Connect with Qualified Candidates: Interested caregivers registered on RewardingWork.org will reply directly to your posting via our confidential auto-reply system, and you’ll receive replies in your email.
Take the Stress Out of Hiring
Finding the right caregiver doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By using the tools and tips CT DDS provides to families through RewardingWork.org, you can simplify the process and attract qualified candidates who are ready to provide compassionate, reliable care.