Recently we have seen a large increase in travel positions opening up throughout the United States. With that said, it is extremely important to strive to be the best healthcare professional you can be, not just clinically but also professionally.
Create a legacy within the department so facilities will request to have you back later down the road. You might ask: How can I do that?
Below are a few tips on how to create an impression on managers/supervisors that will make it hard for them to forget about you.
- Flexible. Yes, flexibility is the key to a manager’s ear but you must walk the walk. Offer to assist them on shifts that are short. Strive to accommodate their schedule as best you can.
- Attitude. Healthcare can be a high stress job so keeping a positive attitude about the job can help create a more positive environment.
- Conflict. Invest in healthy conflict. When you are upset with someone, ask yourself why a reasonable, rational person would do such a thing, find out what part of the story you’re missing, and focus on solving the problem and building the relationship.
- Team Player. When team members are struggling, ask to help or offer assistance.
- Listen. Be a good listener. Hear the joy, grief, frustration, and enjoyment in others. Learn their values and what motivates them.
- Celebrate. Celebrate success or failed experiments, as they can be a learning tool.
Obviously there are other ways to create that lasting memory with management so that you will be asked to return, or better yet, asked to join their staff full time. Work hard to create that legacy so you can enjoy your career as a traveling healthcare professional.
Lee Kortus is a Team Lead with the Aureus Medical Group Cardiopulmonary & Other Allied Health division.