SDAHO’s Workforce Pipeline video series demonstrates how authentic storytelling can inspire the next generation of rural health care professionals.
When it comes to recruiting the next generation of health care workers, sometimes the most powerful message comes from the people already doing the work. Across South Dakota, health care professionals have inspiring stories to tell, and sharing those stories can be an affordable and effective way to attract future employees.
Through its Rural Health Care – Expanding the Workforce Pipeline initiative, the South Dakota Association of Healthcare Organizations (SDAHO) is showcasing health care professionals who are making a difference in their communities. The video series highlights real employees, their career journeys, educational pathways and the opportunities available in rural health care.
One example comes from Fall River Health Services in Hot Springs, where videos feature registered nurse Tonya Bloom and certified nursing assistants Autumn Bloom and Kiyana Morton. Their stories help put a personal face on health care careers while demonstrating the opportunities available in rural communities.
Additional videos feature health care professionals from Mobridge Regional Hospital and Clinics and Sunset Manor in Irene, offering a glimpse into different health care professions and career pathways.
Big Impact Without a Big Budget
For rural health care organizations working with limited recruitment and marketing budgets, storytelling offers an opportunity to connect with potential employees without expensive advertising campaigns or elaborate video productions.
A short interview with a nurse, nursing assistant, housekeeper or other team member can provide meaningful insight into what makes working in rural health care rewarding. Today’s smartphones, basic editing tools and social media platforms make it easier than ever to produce and share these stories.
Consider starting with three simple questions:
- What inspired you to pursue a career in health care?
- What do you enjoy most about working in your community?
- What advice would you give someone considering a health care career?
The answers can become short videos, social media posts or recruitment features that highlight your organization’s people and workplace culture.
Resources to Help Build Your Workforce
SDAHO’s South Dakota Health Care Workforce Resource Center offers tools to support recruitment and retention, including resources for marketing open positions, career development, employee engagement and workforce planning.
The Workforce Pipeline initiative is supported through a four-year, $1.15 million grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), focused on strengthening the rural health care workforce by encouraging students, career changers and community members to explore healthc are careers.
The takeaway for rural health care organizations is simple: You don’t need a large marketing budget to tell a compelling story. You just need to start with the people who make your organization special.
As South Dakota health care organizations continue working to build a sustainable workforce, sharing authentic employee experiences can help future health care professionals see themselves as part of that future.
Explore the videos and get inspired:
