Sure, you should still place local ads, post signs in front of your facility, and use an online job board, but maybe try some of these ideas too...
Consider hiring and training local high school students. Offer flexible shifts to work around school hours.
Talk to local churches about hosting a job fair to reach those who already have a heart for serving.
Work with community colleges that have LPN and/or CNA programs to provide hands-on work opportunities for their students.
If there are no CNA programs at local community colleges in your area, consider working with colleges to start one.
The way we work post-COVID has changed in almost every industry, and senior living is no exception. The days of operating as usual are over. We could give across the board wage increases, but with everyone else doing the same thing, that's not likely to attract and retain talent. It's time to get creative! Try some of these ideas, or use them to inspire new ones!
Offer a travel perk to employees who drive more than 10 miles one way to work.
Offer attendance bonuses for employees who don't call off and are on time every shift.
Offer health insurance cash-outs for employees who do not need benefits.
In addition to shift differential, offer a supplementary bonus for picking up high-need shifts.
Offer programs for continuing education and employee development.
Let's face it, the duties of our staff are not always easy. A positive work environment can relieve some of the stresses our employees have, and make our facilities a place that they are happy and proud to work at. So, what innovative things can we do to motivate our staff?
Celebrate special holidays in fun ways. For example, 12 Days of Christmas with a small gift on each day. How about an Easter Egg Hunt? 4th of July cookout?
Appoint someone as a Door Greeter. This person can screen staff and visitors, but also compliment staff as they enter and leave the facility. Often the first or last thing you hear can set the tone for your day.
Travel nursing offers flexibility and higher pay. If you have a multi-facility organization and a nurse who wants to travel, why not "hire" them to be an intra-organizational travel nurse and let them go from facility to facility?*
*Ensure appropriate health screening is in place (this is especially important with COVID and vaccine status)