Congratulations on being hired as a caregiver!
We are so excited for you to begin your new job. Starting your first day as a caregiver can be scary, so we want to share some tips with you on how to be prepared for the first day. Below, we have outlined some of the most important things to remember as you start the job.
We recommend that you prepare these things ahead of time so that when the time comes for your first shift, you’re ready to confidently begin.
A charged cell phone is one of the most important things to remember for a couple of reasons:
A charged cell phone will leave your extra questions answered, good communication in the future with your client and their family, and good preparation for any emergencies.
No matter what time of day your shift is, it’s always important to bring something to eat.
Staying hydrated and full helps you to feel your best, which is just as important as taking care of your clients.
If you’re working a long shift, we recommend that you pack 1-2 meals for it, a snack, and a refillable water bottle. An example of what to bring is:
As a caregiver, it’s important you have enough energy and are hydrated enough to properly give attention to your client.
Timeliness is one of the important qualities to have as a caregiver. Being on time to work every day, especially your first, is very important. We know that some people drive themself, get picked up, or take public transportation so our #1 tip is that:
No matter how you’re getting to work, make sure you leave early enough in case of traffic or anything else that might make you late.
If you’re driving yourself to work:
We recommend that you use Google maps or test the drive sometime before beginning work to see how long it takes to drive to your client’s house.
If someone else is driving you to work:
We recommend that you make sure they’re a trustworthy person who understands that being on time is very important for you. We also recommend testing how long the drive is by using Google maps and asking the person picking you up to come get you at a time that would make you 15 minutes early to work.
If you’re using public transportation
We recommend that you take a route to work that would allow you to arrive at your final destination with 15 minutes to spare, in case of any traffic or something else that could make you late. We also recommend that you test the route you decide on sometime before your first day if you’re unfamiliar with it.
Overall, being on time is very important to remain professional, so make sure that however you’re getting to work, you’re on time.
A welcoming attitude is very important to establish that you’re a kind person and good worker. It’s important to have a welcoming attitude every day, but especially on the first since this is when you make your first impression. Below, we have outlined steps on how to introduce yourself in a welcoming manner:
Step 1
When you arrive at your client’s house, politely knock on their door and wait for them or their family member to answer the door.
Step 2
Once they open the door, introduce yourself by saying “hi my name is (insert your name), and I am your new caregiver”. Follow this by asking their name(s).
Step 3
As you introduce yourself, reach out your right hand to give them a firm handshake. Make sure that you’re smiling when you do this so that they feel comfortable.
An introduction to your client where you’re polite and kind will make them feel that their new caregiver is going to be a good addition to their life.
If you bring a charged cell phone, food and water, are on time, and have a welcoming attitude on your first day, you will be set on the right track for a great first day of work and a great experience as a new caregiver.
“We love working with the Levo team! They provided us with valuable advices that supercharged our hiring process.”
