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Blog > For Employers
Jun 18, 2026

Why Assisted Living Providers Should Use Handshake to Recruit Emerging Talent

Why Assisted Living Providers Should Use Handshake to Recruit Emerging Talent

Finding and retaining the next generation of employees continues to be one of the greatest challenges facing assisted living providers. While many organizations focus on filling immediate vacancies, some of the strongest workforce pipelines are built years before a position opens.

One opportunity many providers may be overlooking is Handshake.

Handshake is a career platform used by colleges and universities across the country to connect students and recent graduates with employers. Through Handshake, organizations can post jobs, internships, part-time opportunities, and participate in virtual or in-person career events. Providers can create a free employer profile and learn more at https://joinhandshake.com/employers/.

For assisted living providers, Handshake offers direct access to students exploring careers in healthcare, business administration, social work, recreation, marketing, dietary services, human resources, and other fields that support senior living communities.

Why It Matters

Today's students are making decisions about their careers now. If assisted living providers are not visible on college campuses and career platforms, students may never consider senior living as a career option.

Meanwhile, employers across healthcare, hospitality, retail, and other industries are actively building relationships with colleges and universities to attract emerging talent. Providers who wait until they have an open position to begin recruiting may find themselves competing for candidates who have already established connections elsewhere.

Building relationships with students early helps create awareness, interest, and long-term workforce pipelines that can benefit organizations for years to come.

Benefits of Using Handshake

Reach Students Before Graduation

Many students begin exploring career opportunities well before they enter the workforce. Handshake allows providers to introduce students to the meaningful and rewarding careers available in assisted living while they are still making career decisions.

Promote Internships and Part-Time Opportunities

Students often seek flexible employment and internship experiences that align with their educational goals. Assisted living communities can provide valuable hands-on experience while creating a pathway to future full-time employment.

Build Relationships with Colleges and Universities

Handshake can help providers strengthen connections with career services offices, faculty, and academic programs throughout Wisconsin. These relationships often lead to ongoing recruitment opportunities, classroom presentations, career fair participation, and internship partnerships.

Showcase Your Organization and Mission

Students increasingly seek employers whose mission aligns with their values. Handshake allows organizations to highlight their culture, career growth opportunities, and the meaningful impact employees have on the lives of older adults every day.

Getting Started

Creating an employer account on Handshake is free and allows organizations to begin posting opportunities, promoting internships, and connecting directly with students and recent graduates. Providers interested in strengthening their workforce pipeline may find it to be a valuable addition to their recruitment strategy.

Create your employer profile today: https://joinhandshake.com/employers/

The workforce challenges facing long-term care will not be solved through traditional recruitment methods alone. Providers that invest in relationships with colleges, universities, and students today will be better positioned to attract the next generation of professionals tomorrow.

The question is not whether students are exploring career opportunities, it is whether they are discovering yours.