17 July 2024
Right language ‘key to recruiting qualified social care staff’, new report finds
Terminology in job descriptions and recruitment materials is crucial in attracting qualified social care professionals, according to a new study
A new report from CCPS explores the use of language and narrative in recruitment processes within the not-for-profit social care and support sector.
Choice of language in job descriptions and recruitment materials is crucial in attracting qualified social care professionals, according to 96% of respondents surveyed as part of the research.
The study aims to improve recruitment process outcomes through defining language that attracts a pool of candidates who are well suited to roles on offer.
The report also offers recommendations to provider organisations and highlights key findings from survey and focus group research.
Download the publication here (condensed version)
Taking a sector-wide approach, it recognises the current recruitment challenges while acknowledging the strides made in using language that can resonate with potential candidates.
There has been a concerted effort to move away from overly technical or jargon-heavy descriptions towards clear, accessible terminology that accurately represents roles and expectations.
But during a time of recruitment crisis, the report finds more needs to be done to inform candidates of the opportunities a career in social care can offer.
Welcoming publication of the report, Kristy Lambert, CCPS’s Policy & Projects Officer – Workforce, said:
“CCPS is grateful to everyone who took part in this study. Their participation allows for relevant and important research to be produced in the hope of improving the outcomes of recruitment within the sector.
“We hope the report offers organisations ideas for implementation within their own language of recruitment and that its findings are useful.”
The report looks across a variety of themes including job descriptions, emphasis on career development, job requirements such as emotional intelligence and soft skills, job benefits, inclusivity and diversity in language, streamlining application processes and more.
The publication was researched and produced by CCPS’s Workforce Programme, which is funded by the Scottish Government.