Episode 25: Aging Services Pro Tips: Building and Retaining Your Team
Building and retaining a strong team is one of the most critical challenges in the aging services sector. As professionals committed to delivering high-quality care, we understand that our success is deeply rooted in the dedication and commitment of our staff. However, the stakes have never been higher, with turnover rates reaching an alarming 82% for home health and personal care aides, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
In this ComForConnections episode, we’ll explore leadership considerations for fostering a supportive and productive work environment, best practices for recruitment and retention, and strategies for creating a workplace culture that encourages long-term employee loyalty. We are joined by Beth Bigham, ComForCare 2023 Franchisee of the Year and Owner of ComForCare Home Care, South Indianapolis, who will provide insight into her successful leadership approach that has significantly impacted her community, clients, and team.
Whether you're an experienced professional or new to the field, these pro tips will provide valuable guidance on improving staff retention and building a team that stands the test of time. Tune in!
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About Beth Bigham:
Beth Bigham is the President of ComForCare Home Care - South Indy / Franklin. Her career has spanned various roles in computer support, administrative tasks, internal auditing, and accounts payable across multiple companies. In 2013, Beth decided to channel her experience into entrepreneurship, founding a ComForCare Home Care franchise in the South Indianapolis territory. In 2021, she expanded her franchise to include a second territory in Franklin, Indiana.
As a family business, with Beth’s daughter also part of the team, they now serve over 100 clients with the support of more than 100 dedicated caregivers.
Beth’s passion for senior care extends beyond the office—she is actively involved in fall-risk detection programs and partnerships with local horse farms, providing seniors with joyful experiences through equine therapy and carriage rides.
Beth's leadership and commitment to quality care have earned her franchise significant recognition. Her office was named Franchise Office of the Year in 2023 by ComForCare Health Holdings, and in 2021, she received the Team Builder Award for outstanding performance.
Beth holds a degree in Business Administration from Indiana State University, with concentrations in Management, MIS, and Finance, and a Master’s in Business Administration from WGU Indiana.
Episode Notes:
- Insights about the ComForCare 2023 Franchisee of the Year’s career journey and her leadership's impact on the community, clients, and team
- Insights surrounding leadership and management approaches that foster a supportive and productive work environment
- Best practice considerations for recruiting and retaining team members for the competitive senior care sector
- Strategies for creating a workplace culture that makes employees want to stay with your company long-term
- Advice for aging services professionals to improve staff retention
Episode Resources:
- Home Care Franchise Caregiver Recruitment & Retention Strategies – ComForCare
- What Kind of Employees Do I Need for a Home Care Business? – ComForCare
- The ComForCare Difference
- ComForCare Franchising
- Book: Hung By The Tongue – Francis P Martin
- Book: Personality Plus: How to Understand Others by Understanding Yourself – Florence Littauer
- Book: What to Say When You Talk to Yourself– Shad Helmstetter
- Book: Think and Grow Rich – Napoleon Hill
- Book: The Law of Success – Napoleon Hill
- Book: Who Moved My Cheese – Spencer Johnson
- Book: How to Win Friends and Influence People – Dale Carnegie
- Book: The 5 Second Rule: Transform Your Life, Work, and Confidence with Everyday Courage – Mel Robbins
- Book: The High 5 Habit: Take Control of Your Life with One Simple Habit – Mel Robbins
- Book: The Way of Integrity: Finding the Path to Your True Self – Martha N. Beck