5 Things To Know Before Becoming A Travel Nurse
Thinking Travel Nursing or becoming a travel healthcare worker in a related field? You’re not alone. Travel Nursing has grown over the past few years (obviously accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic) but is still expected to grow by over 40% in the coming years. More and more you’re probably hearing about your peers leaving their staff positions to become full-time travelers.
The desire for freedom in scheduling, travel, options to expand learning and career development opportunities, and flexibility have fueled the growth and demand of travelers across the country.
So, if you’re looking for the right balance of career opportunity, flexibility, and benefits, maybe it’s time to start down that path. Here are 5 things you should know before starting your career search
1) Set specific career goals.
Know “why” you want to shift from your current career or position as a staff healthcare worker into a traveler. Are you hoping to learn new skills? Work in different facilities? Gain additional certifications? Now is the time to think more long-term and how shifting into a new career as a traveler will help you achieve your career goals.
2) Job Search! Job Search! JOB SEARCH!
Have an idea of where you want to go? Maybe a new state with different scenery or a place that is closer to family? Now is the time to do a preliminary job search and get an idea of the demand in the state where you are hoping to work. Getting in touch with a Spire recruiter can make this process go even faster.
3) Research whether or not you’ll need to obtain a new license.
You may have a compact license that will allow you to work in most of the US (over 35 states), but there are a handful of states that will require additional licenses. There may be other stipulations to working in other states you’ll need to be mindful of, too. Not sure about the credentialing or license side of things? Spire recruiters and our Operations Team are ready to help you fast-track this side of your job search and journey into becoming a traveler!
4) Think about housing/lodging before you commit to an assignment.
You may be psyched about an assignment you found AND it may have a housing stipend or arranged housing (not all assignments have these). However, if you want to maximize your pay, you can get creative with your housing arrangement(s) while on assignment. Many travelers take the route of renting a camper, subletting, or even living in a tricked-out, modified Sprinter van! The world is your oyster and life as a traveler makes this even more achievable!
5) Know your benefits.
Not all assignments are built the same. There are advantages to working with a group that you can’t find as a “free agent.” For instance, if you’re looking for a more “employee” style work life, you’ll want to see what kind of options you have in terms of healthcare, 401K, and other standard benefits you’d receive as a staffer. Spire offers healthcare on DAY 1 of your first assignment and matching 401K after 1 year.
Feeling like you’ve checked these 5 items off of your list? Ready to start the process? So are we! Get the process started by applying today and one of our recruiters will be in touch within 24 hours!