Think smart when searching for travel nurse jobs

If you're a travel nurse, you're probably something of a pro when it comes to identifying new opportunities across the country. However, even the most skilled and experienced travel nurses have their work cut out for them in today's economy. Before you click "send" on your next job application, follow these tips to ensure your resume packs a punch and that you remain at the top of the pile of potential candidates.

Don't overlook the small details: For travel nurses, available vacancies usually come in one of two flavors – jobs posted directly by employers, and positions advertised through a travel nursing agency. If the job posting includes the name of the individual who is handling the hiring for the position, the last thing you want to do is use a generic "Dear Sir or Madam" if there's a specific person you can address. Although it might sound trite, catching small things like this can demonstrate your attention to detail, something many nursing managers look for in applicants.

Be honest about your skills: We've all done it – you see a job you really want, and even though you don't quite match the specifications listed in the advertisement, you apply anyway. Maybe you've been fortunate enough to land travel nurse jobs like this in the past, and if so, good for you. However, routinely applying for jobs you're not qualified for doesn't' just waste recruiters' time, it can also show that you have problems following instructions. Unless you're confident that your past experience is directly applicable to a new role, be honest with yourself and stick to applying for assignments that match your skills and seniority.

Network like it's your job: In today's digital age, it's hard to go one day without hearing something about social media or professional networking in the news, especially if you read nursing magazines. However, networking and maintaining an extensive list of contacts is one of the most frequently overlooked ways for travel nurses to find new opportunities and land assignments. Even if your former manager can't connect you with a new travel nursing position, they may be able to provide you with a solid reference, which is almost as good. When you're on the job, try to be as friendly and polite to your coworkers and managers as you would be with your patients, and you'll be filing up your Rolodex in no time.

Maintain a strong digital presence: Of course, networking the old-fashioned way is certainly valuable to travel nurses looking for new assignments, but it'd be remiss to neglect your online persona, too. Professional networking sites like LinkedIn are veritable gold mines of new job opportunities. Keep your profile up to date, and be sure to add new skills and responsibilities every time you complete an assignment. The more current your profile, the more attractive a candidate you'll be to the legions of healthcare recruiters who use LinkedIn as a means to identify hot new prospects. While you're at it, make sure to reach out to  current and former coworkers, managers and administrative professionals and add them as contacts – you never know who could help you land your next assignment.

Be confident: Above all else, remember that you're a skilled healthcare professional, and that your skills are in demand. Whether you're hot off your last assignment or going through a dry patch, don't forget that nurses have never been in greater demand, and professionals who can get the job done will always be a valuable commodity in any hospital, health center or private clinic.