5 Corporate Skills You Can Use as a Professional Caregiver
The global pandemic transformed the way we learn, play, and work. During the Great Resignation, droves of workers voluntarily quit their jobs. About 4.5 million, to be exact. America’s “Big Quit” was heavily influenced by COVID-19 and people realizing they wanted more flexibility and fulfillment out of their careers.
Disenchanted corporate employees left their cubicles in search of something better. A career in caregiving might be just what they need.
Do you want to make the shift from a corporate employee to a caregiver? If so, here are five corporate skills that will benefit you in your new career.
1. Clear Communication
Good verbal and written communication are essential qualities every caregiver must have. Caregivers must know how to communicate effectively with clients, their families, colleagues, and medical professionals.
Many corporate employees are masters of communication. Whether they work in sales, management, or marketing, good communication is pivotal for employees in office settings.
2. Social Skills
Social, or interpersonal, skills go hand-in-hand with good communication. Interpersonal skills directly relate to a person’s emotional intelligence and help them interact, work, and build relationships with others.
While you don’t have to be an extrovert to be a great caregiver, you do need to know how to establish rapport and build trust. If you lack social skills, your clients can feel lonely and isolated.
Corporate workers, mainly customer service representatives, have honed their people skills and can interact with just about anybody.
3. Reliability
Dependability is vital across all industries. Businesses don’t want to hire flaky, irresponsible employees. And managers don’t have the time or patience to micromanage their staff.
Caregivers must be reliable. Older adults depend on them for assistance with daily tasks. If you show up late—or don’t show up at all—you’re putting your clients at risk.
4. Compassion
The term “caregiver” says it all. This field isn't for you if you’re not caring or compassionate. Compassion is the ability to sympathize with others’ misfortunes or distress and offer support and assistance.
Many seniors seeking caregiving services have memory troubles or difficulties getting around. As a caregiver, you should be empathetic and passionate about helping others.
Many corporate employees who have worked in mental healthcare, social work, or education have endless capacities for compassion.
5. Flexibility
Do you freak out if things don’t go according to plan? Well, life is messy and unpredictable. No matter your job title, you must be flexible and able to think on your feet.
The role of a caregiver comes with countless unknowns. Last-minute doctor’s appointments, errands, or tasks can pop up daily. If you can’t pivot quickly, caregiving might not be your best career choice.
Take the First Step Towards a Fulfilling Career in Caregiving
Are you looking for a career that allows you to make a difference every day? If so, Visiting Angels wants to hear from you! We’re always looking to hire compassionate and dedicated individuals throughout Scranton, Waverly, Pittston, and the surrounding areas.
As a Visiting Angel Scranton caregiver, you’ll help older adults with personal care, meal planning, light housekeeping, transportation, and companionship. Want to learn more? Call us at 570-800-5270 or apply today. We’d love to hear from you!