How to Begin Your Career in Care

Expert Advice from Meallmore, HR Business Partner, Karen MacDonald

The care sector is a fulfilling and impactful industry where you can truly make a difference in people’s lives. However, starting your journey in care can feel daunting, especially if you have little or no experience. To provide insights and encouragement for those considering a career in care, Karen MacDonald, HR Business Partner at Meallmore, recently sat down with students from Glasgow Clyde College to discuss tips for applying for care roles and how to excel in the industry.

Here’s what Karen shared, packed with practical advice for anyone looking to pursue a career in care.

1. No Experience? Focus on Your Personal Qualities and Transferable Skills

Karen’s first message to aspiring carers is reassuring: you don’t need prior experience to start a career in care. Instead, focus on showcasing your personal qualities, such as kindness, compassion, and empathy—all of which are vital when supporting vulnerable individuals.

“If you don’t have experience, it’s important to tell us about transferable skills or personal caregiving experiences,” Karen explains. “For instance, you might have looked after a sibling, a grandparent, or even helped friends in times of need. These are valuable examples to include in a cover letter alongside your CV.”

In fact, Karen notes that during interviews, many employers (including Meallmore) value how candidates present themselves just as much as their formal experience. “At interviews, we’re looking for kindness, commitment, and a genuine passion for supporting others,” she says. “If you demonstrate those qualities, you’re more likely to stand out.”

2. Training and Support: Employers Will Help You Build Your Skills

Karen emphasises that training is a critical part of entering the care sector, and employers are responsible for equipping new team members with the skills they need to succeed. At Meallmore, for example, every new colleague is paired with a mentor or buddy who provides guidance, answers questions, and helps them build confidence during their first six months.

“Every employer should offer comprehensive training to new carers,” Karen says. “At Meallmore, we ensure you have a structured onboarding process, as well as access to experienced colleagues who can help you learn on the job.”

Karen’s advice to anyone nervous about their lack of skills? Don’t worry—learning is part of the journey. “You don’t need to have all the skills on day one. What matters is your willingness to learn and grow.”

3. What Employers Look for in the Best Candidates

When it comes to selecting candidates, Karen outlines the key qualities that employers prioritise. Beyond experience, they’re looking for individuals who demonstrate:

• Commitment: A genuine passion for helping others.
• Dedication: Reliability and a willingness to go above and beyond for residents.
• Kindness and Empathy: The ability to connect with residents on a personal level and treat them with dignity and respect.

Karen shares an important insight:

“If I had two candidates—one with experience but without those qualities, and another with no experience but who showed kindness and compassion—I’d pick the latter. Care work is about heart, not just skills.”

4. Advice for Aspiring Carers: Sell Yourself

Karen’s advice to anyone considering a career in care is simple but powerful: believe in yourself and sell yourself. While the care sector isn’t without its challenges, it’s a rewarding career path where you can grow and make a real difference.

“Care work is an incredibly fulfilling job,” Karen says. “You may not start with the highest salary, but there are clear progression opportunities. Many carers go on to become care home managers and beyond. If you’re passionate about supporting people, the care sector offers you the chance to build a meaningful career.”

She also highlights the importance of understanding what you want to achieve in your career.

“This isn’t an easy job,” she admits. “But at the end of the day, you can go home knowing you’ve helped someone smile, made someone’s day, or supported someone to live more independently. That’s something you don’t get in many other roles.”

5. The Emotional Rewards of Care Work

For Karen, one of the most fulfilling aspects of care work is the emotional connection you build with residents.

“In care, you can make a tangible difference every day,” she says. “You can help someone live with dignity, comfort, and independence—and that’s incredibly rewarding.”

Karen also acknowledges that some people may hesitate to enter the care sector because of its perceived challenges. However, she encourages them to consider the bigger picture.

“You could work in a supermarket for a similar wage, but would it give you the same sense of purpose? In care, you’re not just earning a salary—you’re making a difference in the lives of others.”

6. Practical Tips for Landing a Care Role

If you’re ready to apply for a role in care, Karen offers some practical tips to help you stand out:

• Add a Cover Letter: Alongside your CV, include a brief cover letter explaining why you want to work in care and highlighting your personal qualities or caregiving experiences.
• Prepare for the Interview: Focus on demonstrating your passion for helping others. Be honest about your lack of experience (if applicable), but highlight your willingness to learn.
• Research the Employer: Learn about the care provider’s values and mission. This will show that you’re genuinely interested in the role and committed to making a difference.

7. Why Choose a Career in Care?

Karen concludes with a compelling message for anyone considering a role in care: the impact you can make is life-changing.

“Care work isn’t just about physical support; it’s about offering emotional support, creating meaningful connections, and helping people in every way they need,” she says. “If you’re passionate about making a difference, this is the industry for you.”

Join Meallmore: Build Your Career in Care

At Meallmore, we’re always looking for passionate, empathetic individuals to join our team. Whether you’re starting your career or looking to advance, we provide the training, support, and opportunities you need to succeed. If you’re ready to make a difference, we’d love to hear from you.

Visit our careers page to learn more and apply today: Meallmore Careers.