When searching for a new career it’s often hard to know where to start. An internet search can easily be overwhelming with options and opportunities. On a basic level a “job” has to meet your basic needs; ability to pay bills, a flexible schedule that works with family, and training and support to do the job well. After those needs are met, you can then start to think about options and opportunities for career growth.
The long-term care sector offers more than jobs, it offers a web of career opportunities spanning multiple job levels and departments. Employees with the most rewarding careers often start in a front-line position and work their way into other positions more suited to their personal interests and needs. For example, a new employee might start in the food services department as a server, then move on to become a caregiver, and then transfer again into activities or pursue training to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Each transition generally includes a wage increase and increase in responsibility. It’s also common to be cross trained in multiple positions, giving employees even more experience and variety in their day. As employees gain experience, they are often sought after for leadership development programs.
Communities have three to four levels of staff: front line, team leader, department head, and administrator or executive director. Each of these levels offers an increase in responsibility and pay. There are many pathways to gain experience at each level, exploring a range of positions will help you find the level that provides the most purpose and satisfaction. Some employees are most satisfied working closely with residents and others find satisfaction in leadership roles. Success is defined by what is most valued and rewarding to each employee. Talking with department heads and even senior leadership often reveals a multitude of opportunities to explore.
One myth that is hard to debunk is that you have to be promoted up a level to grow in an organization. This isn’t necessarily true in long term care. Most promotions come from internal employees who have had a variety of positions within the community. Their breadth of knowledge and experience in multiple positions is invaluable for the successful operations of the community.
At the end of the day when your basic needs are met, you can then shift from working in a “job” to growing a “career.” This shift in mindset creates a sense of purpose and a deep connection to something bigger than yourself, this is especially true in long-term care where every employee applies their skills to providing the best quality of life for the residents living in their community.
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