Staffing Shortage Survival Tips for Youth Workers
Staffing shortages are a serious problem. For youth-serving programs, it may mean curtailing or closing some youth programs. Even when programs stay open but run with fewer youth workers, they and the youth may feel negative impacts.
Some of the biggest problems staffing shortages can cause for youth workers and youth-serving organizations include:
- Reduced quality of care
- Longer wait times
- Difficulty in crisis management
- Strained relationships
- Lower staff morale
- Risk of turnover
- Inadequate training and professional development
- Increased vulnerability of vulnerable youth
- Impact on community outreach
- Compliance and paperwork challenges
- Reduced diversity in staff
Ultimately, staffing shortages can have long-term negative consequences for the development and well-being of the youth served. That can potentially affect their future opportunities and outcomes.
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Youth worker’s guide to surviving staffing shortages
This isn’t a problem you can solve on your own. But it is something you can work through. Your mindset will make the biggest difference in how well you navigate this challenge. During staffing shortages, it's crucial to maintain a positive attitude and stay flexible in your role. Here are some ways to do just that:
- Embrace teamwork - Work closely with your colleagues and offer a helping hand when needed.
- Learn new skills - Be open to learning new skills or taking on different tasks. This not only makes you more valuable to your organization but also keeps things interesting.
- Stay positive - A positive attitude can be contagious. Encourage your teammates by being optimistic and helping maintain morale.
- Time management and self-care - Managing your time effectively and taking care of yourself is essential for your well-being.
- Prioritize tasks - Make a to-do list and prioritize tasks based on importance and deadlines.
- Set boundaries - While it's important to be flexible, it's equally important to set boundaries. Don't overwork yourself. Make sure to take breaks and rest.
- Self-care - Engage in self-care activities that help you relax and recharge. Whether it's reading a book, going for a walk, or practicing meditation, taking care of yourself is vital.
Did you notice self-care was in that list twice? You have to be intentional about that. Staffing shortages will create additional physical and mental challenges. You need effective, healthy ways to reduce stress.
The Passionate Youth Worker podcast is a refreshing 30-minute reset for much-needed motivation and inspiration from other youth workers. Take a break, breathe, and tune in.
What youth workers need most from their leaders
Leaders, what matters most is that your people know you care about them. When they know you care, they are more likely to stay and work through these tough times together, with you.
Communication is key. Share your concerns and ideas for managing the workload effectively. Keep your team informed about any changes or updates, ensuring everyone is on the same page. Maintain open lines of communication with everyone on your team.
- Intentionally set a positive tone throughout your organization - Create a positive work environment that encourages everyone to give their best. Let them see you smile!
- Be more generous with praise – Give extra encouragement by noticing more of what folks are doing right.
- Prioritize training and skill development – Resist the urge to curtail training. It is actually counterproductive even if it seems like a reasonable fix in the moment.
- Show true appreciation - Focus on quality over quantity, ensuring that the programs you do offer are impactful and engaging for youth workers and young people both.
- Be a source of inspiration - Gather feedback from your team and the youth you serve to get their take on what they need. And then personalize your actions to meet their needs.
- Recognize and celebrate achievements - Acknowledge the hard work and dedication of your team. Celebrate even small victories to boost morale.
Emerge stronger and more resilient as a team
About the author
Barbara Van Deinse is the operations director of the Youth Intervention Programs Association (YIPA), a non-profit association of youth-serving organizations. We're your source for exceptional, affordable, personal and professional online learning via The Professional Youth Worker. Join us!
To ask Barbara a question or share your feedback about this blog, email barbara@yipa.org.
