One of the questions most often asked during a job interview is, “what does a career trajectory look like within the company?” Individuals – especially those who are driven – want to know that they will have the opportunity to grow. If they begin to feel like they will be stuck doling out medications or cleaning bedpans for the foreseeable future, it is safe to assume that they will begin to search for something new.
Creating a clear ladder for career advancement helps all parties. However, keep in mind that it is important to have these conversations upfront and be clear about the time and experience requirements. This ensures that expectations are appropriately set.
In this article, we will go over a few of the main benefits your company can enjoy by promoting from within.
Save money on recruitment.
You know better than anyone: hiring for senior living is not easy. It can be an incredibly physically and emotionally demanding industry, and burnout is all too common. However, when you institutionalize a clear career trajectory for different positions (both medical and non-medical), you can more easily promote from within, saving precious resources.
Save time on onboarding.
It is always risky to bring on a new team member. Someone who seemed incredibly empathetic in an interview could turn out to have a horrible bedside manner, for example. And even a candidate who has been working in senior care for the past decade will take time to learn the ins and outs of your specific facility.
On the other hand, when someone can rise through the ranks, a lot of the institutional knowledge is already there, creating a more seamless transition. That being said, this does not mean that a training period for the new position is unneeded; it is important to signify to the entire team that a change in role and responsibility has occurred.
Strengthen your workplace culture.
As we discussed at the top of this article, the opportunity for career growth is crucial for a lot of people. Showing that a clear career ladder is in place gives your employees something to strive for. It also shows that you believe in your team and are willing to invest in them, improving morale. And finally, it allows you to grow and develop your workplace culture, advancing those who actively contribute to and strengthen the group.