04/11/2025
Common Mistakes Support Workers Should Avoid
1. Not really listening – Take time to truly listen to clients. Interrupting or only listening to reply can damage trust and relationships.
2. No clear boundaries – Helping others doesn’t mean saying yes to everything. It’s okay to say “no” politely and protect your own wellbeing.
3. Waiting for problems – Don’t wait until issues arise. Be proactive and plan ahead to prevent problems before they start.
4. Poor time management – Being late or forgetting tasks makes you look unreliable. Stay organised and manage your time well.
5. Delaying shift notes – Write your notes soon after the shift. Waiting too long can make you forget details and affect support quality.
6. Same communication for everyone – Each client is different. Adjust your communication style to match their needs and understanding.
7. Lack of real empathy – Empathy means more than feeling sorry t’s about understanding and acting in ways that help others feel supported.
8. Not knowing your focus – Be clear about the type of support you want to provide. This helps you attract the right clients.
9. Working alone – Join support worker groups or networks. Sharing experiences and having backups makes your job easier and safer.
10. Hiding your identity online – Be open and professional when promoting your services. People trust real names, real stories, and positive engagement.
