3 Pro Tips for Your First Travel Nurse Assignment
Travel nurses work hard to secure their very first contracted assignments. From professional certifications to résumés and job interviews, a lot goes into finding that first job. How the nurse handles the job will determine his or her professional future. Here are some tips for making the most of your first assignment.
Prepare Ahead
Ask lots and lots of questions. When you’re new, you might feel like you’re requesting information you should know already, but often the only way to find out is to ask. Find these things out before you go.
- Verify pay rates and benefits with your recruiter. Start building that relationship from day one. Your recruiter has resources that can help you every step of the way, and he or she wants to help you be your best.
- Ask about deadlines. Once you accept an assignment you’ll have to submit documents by a certain date or you might lose your opportunity. Stay in regular contact to make sure your employer has the information they need.
- Find out what to expect when you arrive. Ask about how you’ll get your rental car, what you’ll find at your arranged housing and where to find things like groceries and entertainment.
Plan for Being Away
If you have pets and they’re not going with you, arrange for their care while you’re gone. Make plans for your mail. If you need your grass watered or your home winterized while you’re away, now’s the time to get it covered.
Spend time with the people you’re going to miss. Have lunch with your best friend and spend extra time with your parents.
Pack Light
Realize for a short-term assignment you don’t need everything you have at home. If your housing is furnished, pack clothes, work clothes and personal care items. Bring a few things to remind you of home and what you need for hobbies or entertainment. Experience the freedom of leaving the rest behind.
Emerald City Medical Staffing can help you find your first travel nurse assignment. Contact us today to find the job that’s right for you.