Part of my job is to speak with potential candidates, who, for a variety of reasons, may be interested in looking at traveling. Inevitably, the conversation comes down to how and when do I make the jump to being a traveler? And the best way for me to answer that question, is to have them tell me about themselves, their experience and what it is that is making them think about travel. So that is my question to you, what is it that is making you think about travel?
I find that usually the reasons fall into these categories:
- Recently laid off/let go
- Lack of available positions in the area
- Tired of politics in current position
So if you find yourself being able to relate to one or more of those reasons, keep reading. If you don’t, call me, I’d still love to speak with you.
If you are not working full-time, this is your time to take that leap of faith with relatively low “risk”. Think about it, you are not working full-time, so really you are not risking much to jump on a travel assignment. If you fall into this category, your decision is more based on being able to be away from home, and less about risk.
Now, if you are working full-time, this is certainly a more risky situation. It can be hard to leave a “certain” job for the “uncertainty” of travel. What I typically tell candidates is that really it comes down to how “hot” your modality is, your level of experience, and what it is you are giving up. I think the majority of candidates can make more money traveling, the majority making much more. Again, that is something where I would recommend talking to your recruiter. I promise, whoever you talk to at Aureus, they will always give you straight forward answers to any questions you may have.
According to travelers I have spoken with, the positives of travel include: greater pay, greater flexibility to take time off, new locations and equipment and increasing your knowledge by learning different techniques and procedures. Many travelers receive job offers for full-time work at the end of assignments, so it is also a way to get new employment opportunities.
But with the positives also come negatives. You are away from home; it can be difficult to find you a travel assignment in the town where you live; and you may be away from family. Also, when you have time off between assignments, it can be very scary.
I frequently get asked what makes a good traveler. I think the resounding qualities that come up over and over again are flexibility and skills. If you are good at your job and you are flexible in where you want to go, (shift, length of contract, facility, etc.) you can make a fantastic traveler.
If you think you are ready for a travel healthcare position, we would love to work with you as your make that leap!
800.456.5857 ext6054 / ahanneman@aureusmedical.com / Twitter
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