Ready to Travel????
"I want to go to Hawaii to check out the ocean, learn to surf, and swim with the dolphins."
This was the answer I received last week when asking a new applicant why she wanted to give up her full time position and start traveling. Although I'm no longer shocked by the unique views techs have on what traveling positions entail, it was the first response that included surfing and "flipper".
In some cases your assignment may be like a vacation resort but more than likely it's going to be similar to the position you just left but in a new and exciting location.
Certainly there will be time for fun, but the most important point to remember is your there to help a facility with their patient care needs. Because of this it's important to realize that you might not always get the very best shift, best lunchtime or even get the best parking spot. What you will get is a valuable opportunity to show your skills and most importantly help patients who need you.
If you follow the three tips below you'll have no problems, no matter if you¹re a first-time traveler or a seasoned veteran. 1. Make a good first impression. I encourage any employee starting a new assignment to bring rolls or donuts on the first day. This is a great icebreaker and gets the regular staff talking to you immediately. Everyone appreciates food in busy hospital where lunches can sometimes be nonexistent. It also gives you an opportunity to ask the staff what's expected of you and assure them from the start you're ready to help. 2. Always be flexible. Things can change rapidly in healthcare and the full time staff will look for the travelers to help relieve any stress that the schedule may be causing. Don't be surprised if you're asked to take the pager on a day you're not scheduled. 3. Stay out of office politics. Every department has drama and the worst way to introduce yourself is by getting involved. Stay impartial and always go the extra mile to make sure everyone you deal with is pleased you were able to help them. If for some reason they're not happy ask them how you can do a better job next time and reassure them you're there to make things easier for them. Now that you know some of my tips for stress-free travel, what's your best tip for somebody new to the travel industry and how did you learn this lesson?
