Where do I find caregivers, and how do I get them to show up for interviews?
Ask your best caregivers for referrals, post short plain job ads that say pay, hours and area, and answer applicants the same day. Local community colleges and vocational schools also train aides. Most aide jobs need a high school diploma and short on-the-job training, so you can train the right person.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics says home health and personal care aides usually need a high school diploma or equivalent, and learn through short on-the-job training. Community colleges and vocational schools also offer nondegree programs. That means you can hire for heart and reliability, then train.
Where owners often find people (practice, not a rule):
- Your own caregivers. Ask them who they would trust with their own family.
- Online job posts that state pay, schedule and area in the first lines.
- Local training programs and community colleges.
- Churches, community groups and workforce offices.
- Past applicants you did not hire before.
To get people to show up:
- Reply the same day, by text if they apply on a phone.
- Offer a short phone screen first, then a quick in-person or video meeting.
- Send a reminder the day before.
- Tell them the next steps and how long they take.
- Say what you need from them (ID, work eligibility documents, background check).
Fast answers are good manners and good business.
Sources
- Home Health and Personal Care Aides, Occupational Outlook Handbook · U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Reviewed by Beth Bledsoe, Care Business Advisor®, 28 Oct 2026. Rules change. Confirm with your state Medicaid agency before you act.
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