When looking into being a healthcare traveler, there are a few things to keep in mind to be successful in this field. Traveling can be a way to see the country, meet new people, learn new skills, and add to your resume in a very positive way. Not everyone that travels understands how to be the best traveler they can be.
Here for a few things you can do, as a traveler, to set yourself apart from the others.
1. Flexibility.
There are two parts to being flexible in traveling. One, you need to try to be as flexible as possible when it comes to shifts you will work, where in the country you are okay with going, and the tasks you are willing to do on your assignment. The more open you are in those areas, the more opportunities you will have to find a new assignment quickly. Waiting around and not knowing where your next job will come from can be very frustrating.
The second way you can be flexible is while on the assignment. Managers may ask you to cover a shift, take call, take on a little different role, or even switch shifts. The more willing you are to be flexible, the better chance you will have of getting a positive assignment appraisal from your manager at the facility.
2. Be a Chameleon.
When starting a new assignment, the first thing you will notice is all of the things your new facility does differently than your old job(s). That is okay. While your feedback on how your other jobs have done things may be helpful in your eyes, it may be taken the wrong way by the manager or supervisor at your new assignment. Adapting to their ways of doing things will not only help you build rapport with your co-workers, it may teach you how to do a test/procedure in a new way.
3. The best ability is availability.
We all know that things are going to come up in your personal life or with day-to-day health. The facilities we work with know that as well, but they need you to show up on time and for the shifts you are scheduled. The majority of the time that they bring on travelers, they are looking for someone ASAP because they are very short staffed or have a lot of employees in training for new equipment. Also, the more willing you are to pick up shifts, work overtime, or take call, the better it will be for everyone involved. You are there to make their lives a little easier and to help in any way you can.
These are just a few, easy things that you can do to put your best foot forward while traveling. Managers are looking for energetic, happy, and adaptive travelers to join their team. Be that person and jobs will be easier to come by in the future. Bon Voyage!
Ryan Peal is a Team Lead in the Medical Laboratory division of Aureus Medical Group.