3 ways caregivers can stand out more

When you become a CareLinx caregiver, you can enjoy better pay, more flexible hours and free professional development. To find the best caregiving role for your skill set, availability and interests, it’s essential to make yourself as marketable as possible. Here are some tips for determining your unique skill set, optimizing your profile and acing your interview.

1. Highlight your unique skills and experience

If you’ve worked with someone with Alzheimer’s in the past or are a certified nursing assistant (CNA), let families know! If you’re passionate about caring for older adults, include that in your profile. Also, consider the following questions:

• How long have you been a caregiver?
• What do you love most about caregiving?
• What have previous clients had to say about you? 
• How do you provide high-quality, compassionate care to your clients and families? 
• What types of jobs or roles have you previously held? How might one or more of these roles help you be an excellent caregiver? 
• Do you have experience helping people with activities of daily living, like bathing, grooming, dressing or transportation? 
• Have you helped care for a family member, neighbor or friend?
• Do you have a family member who has received caregiving services? This can give you insight into the caregiving process. 
• Do you have any knowledge about certain age groups or medical conditions?
• Do you have any training, such as CPR or first aid? 
• What are your hobbies? Do you love to cook, read, knit, garden or go for walks? Perhaps you could share this hobby with the person you care for. 
• Have you completed any continuing education related to caregiving? 
• How do you go the extra mile for clients and their families? 

You can also grow your skill set and become more in-demand by learning new skills in CareAcademy. 

2. Completely fill out your CareLinx caregiver profile

To be as marketable as possible, do your best to completely fill out your CareLinx profile. The information you provide helps families know what sets you apart – and helps them know you may be the right fit for their loved one. Here are some tips:

• Add a professional-looking photo. Find one that clearly showcases your face, where you’re smiling and looking directly at the camera. 
• List where you went to school if applicable.
• Add detailed information about previous employers, including your job descriptions. 
• Include any skills or experience you have with certain medical conditions, such as dementia, stroke or post-surgical recovery. 

3. Have a great job interview 

If you see a job posting for which you’re a good fit, apply in a timely and professional manner. Our Care Advisor team will coordinate interviews with you. 

Tips for a great interview:

• Read through the job description carefully. 

• Think through answers to common interview questions. These can include:
• 1. Can you tell me about yourself? (Discuss your current situation, then mention any accomplishments or key roles you’ve held.) 
• 2. What would make you a good fit for this position?
• 3. What relevant experience have you had in the past? 

• Ask a friend to help you practice for the interview. 
• Have a list of references available. 
• Be ready to share examples of your previous caregiving work. 

• Prepare questions in advance, such as:
• 1. Can you tell me more about the day-to-day responsibilities of this job?
• 2. What characteristics are you looking for in a caregiver?
• 3. What caregiving challenges are you currently facing?

• Dress your best. You don’t need to wear a suit to the interview; wear something that makes you feel comfortable and confident, such as nice pants or jeans and a blouse, sweater or button-down shirt, or a shift dress. Avoid clothing that is revealing. Check for pet hair, stains or snags. Ensure your outfit is wrinkle-free. 
• Arrive on time for the interview.
• Bring a notepad and pen to take notes. 
• Be kind, positive, honest and authentic. Avoid speaking negatively of past employers. 
• Follow up after the interview with a thank-you email or message in CareLinx. 
  

Are you ready for a rewarding, well-paying role as a CareLinx caregiver? Sign up today and join our network of more than 500,000 caregivers across the United States.