Working in adult care takes more than just qualifications — it’s about the right mix of practical skills, personal qualities, and emotional intelligence. Whether you’re starting out or progressing to senior roles, here are the key skills employers look for.

1. Communication and listening skills

Good communication is at the heart of adult care. You’ll need to listen carefully, speak clearly, and adapt how you communicate depending on the person’s needs.

This includes using positive body language, patience, and empathy — especially when supporting individuals who may have hearing loss, dementia, or speech difficulties.

2. Empathy and compassion

Empathy means understanding how others feel and responding with kindness. It helps build trust and makes those you care for feel valued and respected.

Employers look for people who genuinely care about improving others’ quality of life, not just completing tasks.

3. Teamwork and reliability

Care is collaborative — you’ll work with other care professionals, healthcare workers, and families to support individuals’ wellbeing.

Being reliable and turning up on time builds trust with your team and those receiving care.

4. Organisation and record-keeping

Organisation is essential for managing schedules, medication, and documentation. Accurate record-keeping ensures safety, compliance, and continuity of care.

You’ll learn these procedures during your induction or through qualifications like the CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Care.

5. Adaptability and problem-solving

No two days in care are the same. You’ll need to stay calm under pressure, think quickly, and adjust to each person’s changing needs.

This includes following care plans while also responding sensitively to unexpected situations.

6. Professionalism and confidentiality

Adult care workers handle sensitive information daily. You must maintain confidentiality and follow ethical and legal guidelines at all times.

Professionalism also means respecting boundaries, showing patience, and upholding the values of dignity and equality.

How to develop your skills

The best way to develop these skills is through a combination of training and real-world experience.

• Take a recognised course like the Level 2 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Care.
• Volunteer or shadow experienced care workers to learn best practices.
• Reflect regularly on your interactions and seek feedback from your team.

You can find more about professional standards on the Skills for Care website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can anyone learn the skills for adult care?

Yes — with the right training and mindset, most people can develop the skills needed for a successful career in care.

What’s the most important skill in adult care?

Empathy and communication are the most essential — they help you build trust and provide person-centred care.

Do care qualifications teach these skills?

Yes. Regulated CACHE qualifications include practical and theoretical units on communication, safeguarding, and professional practice.

How can I improve my confidence in care?

Start with a beginner course or volunteer placement to gain experience and develop skills gradually in a supportive environment.

Ready to build your skills?