Recruiting, Selecting, and Retaining Direct Service Workers to Provide Self-Directed HCBS

DSW Recognition

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Two women both dressed in white with long bronw hair. They are in a brightly lit, mostly white room. One woman is in a wheelchair and has just given a gift to the person she is talking to.

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Recognizing DSWs who are working well for you is important. Research shows that you are more likely to keep good DSWs who are recognized for their work. It is nice to hear you are doing a good job and are appreciated. Letting DSWs know they are doing good work doesn't have to cost money. The following are some of the ways you can thank DSWs for their hard work:

Give a thank you card.
Allow flexibility with their schedule.
Tell the DSWs what they are doing well.
Show appreciation for the DSW’s work.
Give the DSW something personal as a reward. For example, share a book by their favorite author or a gift card to their favorite coffee shop.
Acknowledge personal events such as the DSW’s birthday or anniversary.
Take an interest in what is important to the DSW.