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How to rise to the top of the list
50 States Staffing's travel nursing consultants confirm that we are in the middle of one of the most challenging - and exciting — times in travel nursing. Increasing numbers of experienced nurses want to take advantage of the high pay and benefits of travel nursing, especially in these tough economic conditions. But at the same time healthcare employers are dealing with reduced budgets. As a result many hospitals that have turned to travel nurses and therapists to handle patient care are finding themselves with an abundance of qualified candidates to choose from.
Hospitals Now Looking for Multi-taskers
Hospitals are posting more positions for nurses to cover several different units. For example, a med/surg nurse who can also work in pediatrics and telemetry. Or an L&D nurse who can also do mother/baby and NICU.
You can increase your marketability with certification in an additional area of interest or by asking your nurse manager if there are areas you can float to within your scope of practice.
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What's going on in today's healthcare job market?
The selection process is not what it was as recently as a few months ago. Today's travelers have more competition from their peers. The good news: this is only temporary. The lack of student capacity at nursing schools is ongoing and the current drop in healthcare demand will eventually correct itself, as it always does. Long term, there is still far more need for nursing staff than anticipated supply. And hospitals that have reduced full time staff will rely on agencies to fill the gaps when the time comes.
In the meantime, travel nurses must remain patient and be flexible. It may take you more time than before to find that great travel nurse job. Most likely your recruiter will have to submit your profile to multiple facilities. Don't let this get to you. You know you're a great nurse; we know you are a great nurse; just be aware the facilities are getting slammed with profiles. So how can you set yourself apart from the other candidates? Ask your recruiter what you can do to make your application "pop." Simple things like making sure that your application is complete and free of spelling errors, and that your licensure and certifications are up-to-date will help. Take extra courses, or apply for your state nursing license in advance so that when that perfect-for-you travel nurse job opens up, you will be perfectly positioned!
Flexibility is more important than ever!
 In this employment market, you might have to adjust your preferences on shift or location. Remember, it’s not forever, only until the market recovers. Wait a while, and you will be calling the shots again! You also might want to consider other specialties. For example, if you’re a critical care nurse, ask about telemetry openings. That might just be the trick that you needed to get that door to open. It’s all about creating positions for yourself and improving your nursing skills!
Travel nursing is a rewarding and lucrative career. Your experience with adjusting to new locations, new co-workers, new systems and new procedures is a real advantage in today's healthcare employment marketplace. We know that at 50 States Staffing, and we want to make sure that you and your future employers know it, too. |
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