Are you wondering ‘what makes a good carer’? Working as a carer is a challenging yet rewarding career choice. The job entails looking after vulnerable people to ensure that they are comfortable, safe, healthy and happy. Being an exceptional carer requires a certain set of skills and qualities.
If you’re interested in care jobs in Nottingham, this post is for you. In it, we explore the different characteristics and personality traits that are necessary in a good carer.
Positive and Friendly
The ability to be open, warm and make people feel at ease is an important aspect of making someone feel safe in your presence. Good carers have the natural ability to build rapport with people they look after and foster good relationships. Although you may find yourself in frustrating or difficult situations, it’s important to be able to maintain your sense of attitude and display a positive attitude.
Empathic
Are you able to put yourself in another person’s shoes and approach their vulnerability with sensitivity and kindness? Empathy is an essential trait of good carers. As you work with vulnerable people, it’s important to be aware of the many layers of emotion they may be experiencing – from loss of control to grief to denial about their changing needs. Approaching these emotions from a place of empathic understanding can make a big difference.
Patient
As we mentioned earlier, working as a carer is not without its challenges. You may find yourself in stressful situations where things go wrong, people display challenging behaviours and nothing seems to go according to plan. Do you have the ability to be patient with others, empower them and support their independence rather than try to quicken the process by doing something for yourself? If so, you’ll make a great carer.
Respectful and reliable
Working as a career means that you will see people at their most vulnerable. You will enter their personal space, be welcomed into their home and become a part of their life. It’s important to show respect for their routines, choices, values and their belongings. Despite any changing needs or abilities, they deserve to be treated with dignity. Showing up on time and respecting their home shows a person that they matter.
Calm under pressure
As stressful situations arise, are you able to keep your cool and maintain a professional attitude? In busy and overwhelming times, the ability to exude calmness is an essential trait of carers. Yes, there will be times where you may feel like you’re juggling many things or days where things go wrong. Taking a deep breath and remaining calm when under pressure will make the experience easier for everyone involved.
Committed and Passionate
Do you love the work you do? Are you committed to making a positive difference in the lives of others? These are, perhaps, the most important qualities of carers who provide high-quality care. As a carer, you have a genuine concern for the wellbeing of others and a willingness to go the extra mile to ensure someone feels safe and supported. This is what it means to be a good carer.
Get in touch
Ready to become part of our collaborative team and make a meaningful impact on the lives of others? Please feel free to get in touch or call us on 01158 800 300 to learn more. One of our compassionate staff would be pleased to provide more information or answer any of your questions. We look forward to getting to know you.
