Writing a Job Post That Actually Brings the Right Support Worker to You

Looking for a support worker isn’t the same as hiring someone to fix your roof or deliver groceries. It’s personal. You’re inviting someone into your life, sometimes into your home, and you need the right fit. That is why the job advertisement you run will be so important. And when it is too short or too general, you are likely to end up with responses that do not suit. It should not be too rigid and formal as it will scare people away. In the middle is best, something sincere, with points that count, put into your own words. It does not need to be a perfection.

Platforms such as Support Network help with this since you can state what you want and people can contact you. You just list what you need instead of scrolling through a bunch of profiles and wondering whether or not somebody is right. The clearer you are, the greater is the probability of finding someone who fits you. The following are the details you may consider when preparing your job advertisement.

Say a little about yourself

Workers don’t just look at times and tasks; they want to know who they’ll be working with. A short line about yourself helps. Mention your age, maybe your personality. Are you chatty, easy-going, quiet, or more energetic? If you like talking during activities, say that. If you prefer quiet support, note it. These small details tell a worker if they’re the right kind of person for you.

Dates and times matter more than you think

One of the first things a support worker will check is when you actually need them. Is it every Friday morning at the same time, or is it different each week? Do you have a one-off appointment at the hospital, or is this ongoing support? If you’re flexible, explain that too, because it opens the door for more people. If you’re not, be clear so you don’t waste anyone’s time.

Be clear about the location

A lot of people forget this part. Support isn’t always at home. It might be going to a community centre, a doctor, an art gallery, even a wedding. Sometimes you’ll want someone to meet you at home and drive you. If travel is part of the role, just put it in the post. Workers need to know up front because it affects what they can say yes to.

Talk about your goals

Support isn’t just about filling hours. It’s about getting closer to the kind of life you want. Maybe you’re trying to live more independently, maybe you want to get out into the community more, maybe you want to learn new skills. Sharing this helps a worker figure out if they’re the right fit. If your goal is cooking, then a worker who likes cooking can step in. If you’re aiming for social confidence, someone who enjoys group outings will make sense.

If you want to see how the NDIS talks about goals, you can check their guide here.

Skills, interests, and experience

Sometimes you want more than just availability. Maybe you’d like someone who knows about art, or music, or sports. Maybe someone who speaks your language or understands your culture. If qualifications matter, like first aid or training for personal care, write it down. Specifics stop you wasting time on workers who don’t fit what you need.

Do you need transport?

Transport is a big one. If you need someone with a car or a driver’s licence, say it. If you need a vehicle with space for a wheelchair, say that too. Otherwise you might find out later that the worker can’t help with that part of the job. The Australian Government’s transport site has good information about accessible transport if you’re thinking about what to include.

Must-haves and nice-to-haves

Think about what’s non-negotiable. Gender, smoking habits, cultural background, if something really matters, write it down. Then think about extras. Maybe you’d like someone who loves gardening, or someone who knows how to use certain tech. They’re not deal-breakers, but they help narrow the pool. Workers like knowing what matters most to you.

Keep the replies in mind

Once you’ve written your post and replies start coming in, try to answer them. Even if it’s just to say you’ve chosen someone else. It shows respect. Then when you’ve picked the right person, you usually meet them first before signing a service agreement. That meeting helps you both see if it feels right in person. Once that agreement is signed, you can start support properly. The Carer Gateway site explains more about service agreements if you’re curious.

Don’t forget to close the post

When you’ve found your worker, close the job post. Otherwise, you’ll keep getting messages for a role that’s already filled. It takes only a minute and saves confusion for everyone else.

Wrapping things up

A job post does not have to be too long and elaborate. It simply has to be clear and frank. Tell us who you are, what you need, when and where you need it and what really matters to you. The right support worker will identify him or herself in your words. That is when you are heading in the right direction.

For more resources, My Aged Care and the Disability Gateway both have plenty of information to help guide you. And if you’re ready to start looking, Support Network can connect you with workers who suit you. Call 1300 971 631 to begin.