So you want to make the jump into travel nursing, but you want some tips to soften your landing…. No problem! MedUS is here to help. Here are some tips for first-time travelers:
Preparation and organization are essential. As a traveler, there are specific requirements for certain states, jobs, hospitals, etc.. Make sure your licenses and vaccinations are up to date. That way, these don’t pop up as inconveniences during your job search. Keeping your resume updated is critical, too. You are being submitted for a job, so an up-to-date, clean resume is key.
Weigh the pros and cons of your housing options. When traveling, you need to look at the options available to you for housing. Hotel? AirBnB? Staying with a friend or maybe that long-distance cousin? There are many different websites that can assist you when looking for housing, such as Furnished Finder.
Create a relationship with your recruiter. A great recruiter always wants the best for you. Be open with your recruiter about your requests and nonnegotiables when it comes to your assignment. This way, your recruiter knows exactly what you’re looking for and can find the best assignment for you. Hey, you may even make a good friend, too!
Learn your surroundings. Most assignments are 13 weeks. That is a long time to be in an unfamiliar spot. Arriving a few days early for your first assignment can be a great opportunity, allowing you to take the time to get to know the area and explore the town. Learn where important spots are, maybe the closest grocery store, or the nearest gas station to the hospital.
There is no such thing as too many questions, and there’s no such thing as a bad question. It’s your first time traveling, so of course, you’re going to have questions! Your recruiter wants you to be informed and know everything going on in the process, so ask them! Have questions for other travelers? There are many different forums, blogs, and groups online for travelers to connect with other travelers.
Don’t close yourself off from opportunities. “Stay committed to your decisions, but flexible in your approach.” In the world of travel nursing, it is important to stay flexible. Pick and choose your negotiables when it comes to looking for an assignment. A closed mind in the travel nursing world can close you off from some great potential opportunities!
Make friends, stay positive, and have FUN! You have a reason you’re choosing to travel, whether it be the money, the traveling, or the opportunity to get out of your comfort zone. Whatever it may be, make it your reason to give your assignment your all. Invite that friendly staff RN you click with to that Mexican restaurant down the street for a margarita post-shift! The more you indulge yourself in your assignment, the happier you’ll be!
