Guest article by Lori Silverman, Chief Programs Officer, AGE+.
Sometimes making a good match between an older adult and the right job requires a slight adjustment to existing models. As one scans the long-term care sector for meaningful work opportunities, of which there are plenty, a savvy job seeker may also see opportunity for a job redesign. The primary objective of job redesign is to enhance the work experience and optimize the fit between employee skills and desires and the available position.
By redesigning jobs, organizations can create a better match between employees’ capabilities and the requirements of the work they perform. This can lead to increased motivation, productivity, and job satisfaction, while also improving overall organizational performance. A win for you, and a win for your long-term care community.
Negotiating a job redesign to re-enter or stay in the workforce in long-term care can be a valuable opportunity for older adults to utilize their skills and experience.
Here are some tips to help older adults navigate the negotiation process:
- Research job roles and responsibilities: Familiarize yourself with the various job roles and responsibilities within the long-term care sector. Understand the specific tasks and requirements of the positions you are interested in. This will enable you to articulate how your skills align with the job requirements.
- Identify your strengths and skills: Before entering negotiations, reflect on your unique strengths, skills, and experiences that make you a valuable asset for the position in which you are interested. Map your expertise to the skills needed for the position such as communication, empathy, problem-solving, life experiences, wisdom, and teamwork.
- Assess your physical capabilities: Evaluate your physical capabilities and consider any adjustments or accommodations you may need. Identify tasks that may pose challenges and think about potential modifications that would allow you to perform the job effectively. Come to the conversation prepared with potential solutions. This information will be important when discussing job redesign options.
- Understand the employer’s perspective: Put yourself in the employer’s shoes and consider their concerns and priorities. Understand the challenges they face, such as staffing shortages or budget constraints, and think about how your experience and abilities can help address those issues.
- Propose a job redesign plan: Develop a well-thought-out job redesign plan that outlines the modifications or adjustments you are seeking. Clearly articulate how the proposed changes will benefit both you and the organization. Focus on the value you can bring to the team and how your contributions can enhance the quality of care provided to residents.
- Emphasize flexibility and adaptability: Highlight your willingness to be flexible and adaptable in your work arrangements. Demonstrate that you can handle various tasks and responsibilities as needed and showcase your ability to work collaboratively with different team members.
- Be open to training and learning opportunities: Show your enthusiasm for ongoing learning and professional development. Emphasize your willingness to undergo any necessary training or certifications to enhance your skills and stay up to date with the employer’s standards.
- Provide examples and testimonials: Share specific examples of your previous successes and achievements in caregiving or related fields. If possible, gather testimonials from previous colleagues, supervisors, or residents you have worked with. These anecdotes and endorsements can strengthen your case during negotiations.
- Maintain a positive and confident attitude: Approach the negotiation process with a positive and confident attitude. Demonstrate your passion for caregiving and your commitment to making a meaningful impact in the lives of residents. Confidence in your abilities can greatly influence the outcome of negotiations.
Remember, negotiations are a collaborative process. Be prepared to listen, compromise, and find mutually beneficial solutions. Your experience and skills can be a tremendous asset in the long-term care workforce, and by effectively negotiating a job redesign, you can contribute to the well-being of residents while finding fulfillment in your work.
