Well, not a real zebra.
Although in your quest to leave no stone unturned while searching for the perfect caregiver, you may have considered it.
We won't tell anyone.
The fact is, finding superstar caregivers is a tough task. To find the right caregiver for your loved ones, you've got to know exactly what characteristics to look for. Since we interview hundreds of Dallas area caregivers each week, I thought I'd boil down the top five things we look for into a handy-dandy acronym.
Z -- Zeal for the Client. Customer service doesn't always come naturally in healthcare. Doctors offices have more magazines than 7-11 because you've got to have something to do while you wait. Really outstanding caregivers defy this trend by providing out-of-this-world customer service. They know that to truly give families peace of mind, they have to focus on customer service in a big way.
E -- Eloquence. The ability to communicate clearly and effectively is a must have skill for any good caregiver. Let's face it, we all like to talk to interesting people. An eloquent caregiver, who is skilled at listening and interacting, will enrich her client's lives.
B -- Bedside Manner. Great caregivers are compassionate. Warmth and thoughtfulness go a long way when helping a client with sensitive, personal tasks. Superstar caregivers understand that an encouraging pat on the hand and a bright smile have healing effects.
R -- Resolve. Superstar caregivers are so likable, so clever, so smart that they could be doing just about anything. They are caregivers because it is their calling. They have a resolve and commitment to their craft that separates them from the pack.
A -- Action. Perhaps the most important thing we look for is action. At HealthBridge we have an expression, "Sitters just sit. Caregivers achieve results." We love people who take initiative, who are self starters, who understand how to get results.
So there you have it - the five key traits we look for in superstar caregivers. If you keep these key traits in mind when interviewing caregivers, finding a ZEBRA will be as clear as black and white.
>>>For more articles on finding superstar caregivers, visit our Selecting Caregivers section.
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Zebra photo by: wwarby