Many experienced travel nurses will tell you that the key to a successful career is a great recruiter.
If you are new to the travel healthcare industry, how are you supposed to know what to look for in a recruiter? Any recruiter can find you a contract, but it takes an exceptional recruiter to help you achieve a more successful and fulfilling career. It is important to take the time to find a recruiter that can be your reliable sidekick throughout your travel nursing career. To help you out, here is TotalMed’s list of top qualities a great travel nursing recruiter should have!
Communication and Accessibility
A great recruiter will be with you every step of the way in your travel nursing career and will make your process appear seamless. They should talk to you about current market trends such as the highest paying cities and states and help prepare you for the first day of your assignment. Your recruiter should communicate with you throughout your contract to make sure all is going well and start planning for your next assignment. Lastly, your recruiter should be easy to get ahold of and respond in a timely manner to any questions you may have. Issues can arise at any given time, so it is important to know your recruiter has your back.
Attention to Detail
Secondly, your recruiter should pay attention to your needs and what you want out of your travel nursing career. For example, what cities you want to travel to and shift preferences. Your recruiter will review your resume and licensure and provide feedback to help you land your dream assignments. If you do not have all of your credentials, your recruiter will create a path to help achieve your goals. Keep in mind that most recruiters will have several caregivers, but it takes a special one to go the extra mile for you.
Knowledgeable
When searching for a travel healthcare recruiter, ask them what they know about the industry. Travel nursing is competitive, so it is important for your recruiter to be knowledgeable when it comes to current market demands, contract locations, top facilities for travelers, and nursing fundamentals. Your recruiter should provide tips and help guide you through the application and interview processes. For first time travelers, your recruiter should help you in reviewing your contract when you land a job in order to confirm rate of pay, assignment length, etc. A recruiter who understands the industry is one who will help you achieve your career goals and land the best contracts.
Honesty
Like the saying goes, “Honesty is the best policy.” As a travel nurse, you want a recruiter who is honest, and one you can trust to guide you through any obstacles that may occur. Your recruiter should be transparent when it comes to assignment details, facility location, and what skills are needed for your new job. However, keep in mind that in order to have a successful career and relationship with your recruiter, you need to be honest with your recruiter as well. Be up front with them about your goals and expectations from your career.
Personal Cheerleader
Lastly, your recruiter should be your personal cheerleader. Throughout your journey, your recruiter will be by your side and doing their best to make your career successful, fun, and enjoyable. The longer you are with your recruiter, the more your relationship will build. Your recruiter will want you to succeed and have an amazing career as a travel nurse. Having someone to support you on your travel nursing career path makes a difference!
