5 Minute Staff Retention Strategies for the Busy DON
Most experts agree that the main reasons for high turnover in all areas of healthcare, especially nurses and nursing assistants, include burnout, aging of the workforce and fierce competition to attract qualified people in the midst of industrywide labor shortages. It has become increasingly critical that the busy DON use every strategy available to retain staff.
Consider these fundamentals first when strategizing to improve retention efforts:
- Hire the right people. It can cost the facility $7,000 + and take from several months up to a year to fill vacant positions, not to mention additional costs for overtime or agency coverage. Invest time to find the right person who not only meets the qualifications but is interested in a long-term commitment.
- Onboard with purpose. Orientation should focus on ensuring the new employee has the information and tools they need to succeed in their position and should provide follow-up mentorship that instills confidence in the new employee. Make the process organized, easy, as interactive as possible, and provide ample opportunities for making the new hire feel welcome and appreciated. (Id.)
- Offer scheduling flexibility. Consider staggering start times, overlapping shifts, or other options that provide staff with ways in which they can balance their work and home responsibilities. Allowing staff to make their own schedules can be surprisingly successful when given the proper guidance and assistance.
Some of the most important strategies for retaining staff are often the easiest and least time-consuming to implement. Take every opportunity to provide recognition and appreciation for every member of the team, particularly those who are newly hired. A simple thank you or words of acknowledgement (i.e., “Mrs. Jones was bragging about how beautifully you fixed her hair for her this morning. Thank you so much for providing such wonderful care.”) can mean more than any costly incentive. Sending a thank you note home that can be opened and shared in front of their family will provide extra recognition. Also make sure to share words of acknowledgement and appreciation with staff in front of their peers, and to do so whenever opportunities arise.
Retention can begin with simple strategies that encourage staff to want to stay where they are. Join us beginning October 29, 2025 for the Proactive webinar series “Strategies for Workforce Retention in Long Term Care” for more insights on how to grow longevity in your team.
Written By:
Janine Lehman, RN, RAC-CT, CLNC
Director of Clinical Services
Proactive LTC Consulting
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