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Kendall is a dynamic individual with a background in restaurant management, who has transformed his career into making a difference in the lives of seniors and caregivers. His journey from overseeing operations at Texas Roadhouse to working with Visiting Angels is an inspiring story of adaptability, resilience, and a deep commitment to creating a culture of care.
In this post, you will learn about Kendall's journey, his philosophy towards work, and how he foresees technology playing a pivotal role in the caregiving industry. We will delve deep into Kendall's unique approach to creating a positive and nurturing environment for both caregivers and the seniors they serve.
Early Days and the Power of Connections
Kendall kick-started his career in the restaurant industry, managing a team of 70 servers at Texas Roadhouse in his early 20s. His experience managing a diverse team and honing leadership skills has been instrumental in shaping his approach towards people management. His emphasis on prioritizing people over profit is a reflection of the lessons he learned from a supportive boss.
An important turning point in Kendall's career was his switch from the restaurant industry to Visiting Angels, a transition facilitated by a mentor. This emphasizes the power of networking and meeting the right people at the right time, as it can dramatically alter the course of one's career.
From Restaurant Management to Caregiving
Kendall's role at Visiting Angels encompasses a myriad of responsibilities, from marketing to client meetings. His primary aim is to energize the team and foster a culture that prioritizes the welfare of the caregivers. Kendall’s approach to finding the right caregiver for each family is holistic, considering factors such as personality, need, and location. When the match isn’t perfect, he leverages his extensive network to find a better fit, ensuring the best possible outcome for both the caregiver and the client.
For Kendall, it's not just about providing care to seniors; it's about building meaningful relationships. He believes that a strong connection between the caregiver and the senior can significantly enhance the quality of care. His motto, "if I do good by people, we will grow the right way", is a testament to his values and the foundation upon which he operates.
The Intersection of Technology and Caregiving
Kendall sees a significant role for technology in the future of caregiving. He believes that ensuring accessibility to a care plan is crucial, and artificial intelligence (AI) can play a pivotal role in achieving this. He foresees a growth in technology that focuses on caregiver retention.
Kendall envisions a system that not only matches caregivers with clients based on location but also aligns their personalities and needs using AI. Such a system could leverage personality tests like a strengths finder, and chatbots, for example, to ensure an optimal match.
However, Kendall is cautious about the recent surge in Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems in the caregiving space. He believes that while these systems can be useful, the market may be oversaturated, and it's essential to be discerning when choosing the right technology.
Next Steps
As Kendall continues to make strides in the caregiving industry, he remains committed to his goal of creating a culture that prioritizes people. As technology evolves, he is keen on leveraging it to further enhance the quality of care provided by caregivers.
While Kendall's journey from restaurant management to caregiving may seem unconventional, it is a powerful example of how transferable skills, a people-first approach, and the right connections can lead to success in any industry.
Whether it's ensuring the welfare of caregivers, fostering strong connections between caregivers and seniors, or leveraging technology to improve care, Kendall is a shining example of a leader who is not just managing, but transforming an industry. His story serves as an inspiration for those looking to make a meaningful impact in their chosen field.
