Getting acclimated to a new environment can be tough but it’s a necessary skill for successful healthcare travelers. Unlike those switching from one perm position to another, travelers usually have 13 weeks at an assignment before moving on to the next. Therefore, adapting has to occur at a much quicker pace while also maintaining high quality of care. Here are some tips:
“We’re not in Kansas anymore.” You don’t have to move to another country to learn about the importance of cultural acclimation. Respecting and acknowledging the diversity of any new environment is an important life skill and essential. Locations set themselves apart by different regional tastes, preferences and language—even within the same state. Do a little homework by researching the area you are going to, but more importantly, go without any preconceptions. Being open to a “new world” is your best tool in adapting and quite frankly, you will probably have a lot of fun in the process.
“Different strokes…” Yes, you may be in the same field but that doesn’t mean everyone practices in the same way. Enjoy learning the little nuances that your new locale has to offer and you may find that your skillset will broaden. Be open to what you may be exposed to (within ethical standards, but that’s another topic) because learning, no matter what field you are in, never stops. You’ll be surprised at how many new techniques you can pick up.
“Leave it as you found it.” Coaching travelers to not push their ways of treating onto their new environment is one of the most common coaching opportunities I’ve had. As mentioned earlier, everyone has their own style so be respectful of it. Travelers are hired for certain reasons such as covering for a medical leave or accommodating for census growth, not to revamp how things are currently run. Your time there should be seamless and beneficial to the existing team. The best way to acclimate to an environment is by letting everyone get to know you through your skills, not by the changes you are trying to push. Doing this will only put you in an uncomfortable position and you won’t enjoy walking around on eggshells for 13 weeks! When you show a strong work ethic along with a team-friendly personality, those around you will be more welcoming.
“The pot boileth over.” Frustration at some point during an assignment is inevitable. Everyone reaches that point but letting it cross over into your work can be detrimental. Being flexible is important and will also reduce the amount of frustration you feel when entering in a new environment. Reduce feelings of frustration by making sure to take time out for yourself every day. Make sure to get enough rest and to maintain a healthy diet. Take walks or treat yourself to a massage or nice meal while on assignment. Don’t skip breaks and take the opportunity to vent to your recruiter, NOT your coworkers. Just remember to heed the advice that may be given as well.
“A rainbow of fruit flavors.” Part of the benefits of traveling is getting exposed to other cultures and to other personalities. Remember that everyone has something positive to offer so be open to what you may encounter when out on assignment. There are so many amazing sights, sounds and people around you to experience that will lend themselves to be great stories for you to tell later! There may be times when personalities clash and if this occurs, stay professional, positive and courteous.
No matter where you are, enjoy yourself… truly enjoy yourself. Make sure to hunt out the local adventures or taste the regional cuisine. Open yourself to new experiences and be accepting of what you will find and who you will meet. Being able to adapt is essential and understanding that there’s a world of beautiful differences out there is the first step. Traveling is marvelous and grants you a perspective most people don’t have the opportunity to do so reap the many benefits this industry offers. Happy Travels!
Sun Hui (Sunny) Snook graduated with a B.A. in Psychology from Truman State University and received a Master’s in Human Services from Bellevue University. She has been in the healthcare staffing field for 11 years, first working with nurses before moving to a nationwide work strategies consultant where her key responsibilities were to coach staffers and hospital managers on effective staffing. In 2009, Sunny started with Aureus Medical as an Account Manager in the Rehab Therapy division, working with both clients and prospective employees. Most recently, she moved to Student Outreach Coordinator. Prior to working in healthcare staffing, she served as an addictions therapist and residential treatment coordinator for five years.
Sunny Snook / 800.456.5857 ext 6578 / ssnook@aureusmedical.com / Facebook / LinkedIn