Recruiting nurses for long-term care (LTC) facilities is one of the most critical challenges in healthcare today. With rising demand for skilled professionals and increasing competition from hospitals and outpatient settings, LTC organizations must adopt innovative and strategic approaches to attract and retain top nursing talent. Here are some best practices to help you succeed.
Optimize Job Postings for Clarity and Appeal
Your job descriptions should:
- Clearly outline the responsibilities and expectations.
- Highlight what your community has to offer, including but not limited to benefits, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement opportunities.
- Use language that conveys purpose and compassion, not just technical skills.
Leverage Multiple Recruitment Channels
Don’t rely on a single platform. Use:
- Resume Databases such as Indeed and LinkedIn.
- Social media campaigns showcasing your facility’s culture.
- Employee referral programs—current staff can be your best ambassadors.
Build Relationships with Nursing Schools
Partner with local nursing programs to:
- Offer clinical rotations in your facility.
- Host career fairs and informational sessions.
- Provide scholarships or tuition assistance for students who commit to LTC roles.
Responding to Candidates Who Apply Through Your ATS
Your Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is more than a tool for managing resumes—it’s one of the first impressions candidates have of your organization. ATS systems are applicant tracking systems that can pull in resumes off of a variety of platforms, including the company website, LinkedIN, Glassdoor, and other partners.
It’s important to go through the resumes that you receive in a timely manner. People are usually interviewing at several places, and top candidates might leave the talent pool quicker if they receive an offer elsewhere.
Strive to Respond timely to applications
How you respond after someone applies can make or break their perception of your brand. A timely, thoughtful response sets the tone for a positive candidate experience and strengthens your employer reputation.
Here are best practices for responding to candidates who apply through your ATS:
Respond Quickly
- Why it matters: Candidates expect acknowledgment within 24–48 hours. Delays can lead to frustration and even withdrawal.
- Action: Automate an immediate confirmation email that thanks them for applying and outlines next steps.
Personalize Where Possible
- Include:
- Candidate’s name.
- Position they applied for.
- A brief note about your excitement to review their application.
- Invite them to interview with a specific date and time.
Effective recruitment in long-term care starts with clear communication and a strong candidate experience. Combining strategic outreach with transparent, respectful communication not only improves hiring outcomes but also strengthens your employer brand and retention efforts.
