Your first assignment can be nerve wracking, but also exciting. If you’re an organized and flexible individual, you’ll have no problem adapting. Your first healthcare traveling assignment might also benefit from choosing a place that you’ve always wanted to visit so you’ll already have plans for your days off.
RTG Medical is one of the best travel healthcare companies, and we wanted to give you some tips and tricks to surviving your first travel assignment. From finding the right housing to packing and arriving on your first day to making friends, we’re here to support you through it all.
Tips for a first-time traveler
Take care of everything back at home, including pets
Do you need to forward your mail while you’re out of town? Do you have packages getting delivered you need to place on hold? Consider these things when going on assignment for 13 weeks. If you have a pet, you should also consider if you’re going to have a family member or friend take care of them while you’re gone, house them at long-term daycare or travel with your pet. Either way, make sure they don’t have an important vet visit coming up, and that they have all the necessary immunizations.
Find housing
The next step is to find somewhere to live in your new place. You likely have the option to find your own or to rely on what your travel healthcare companies recommend. Do you want to live in a suburb in close proximity to your job or do you want to be a distance away in the city?
Pack smart
Since you’re going to be gone for 13 weeks, think about what you need and don’t need. Are you flying or driving, and what room does each permit? Some things you can buy when you get there. Once you do a few assignments, you’ll be a pro at knowing what you need and don’t. Be sure to make note of anything you forgot or wish you had on your first assignment.
Take a test drive
One way to take the stress away from starting your first day on assignment is to do a practice run. Wake up, get ready, drive to your job’s location and pay attention to how long it takes. Make sure you know where to park and then determine if you need more or less time.
Arrive early on your first day
To avoid feeling rushed, arrive early on your first day. That way, you have plenty of time to orient yourself around the facility and find where you’re supposed to be. Be prepared for some sort of orientation. Being on time is also a great way to make a good first impression.
Be ready to show your talent
You got this job for a reason; the facility wanted your unique skills and talents. Make yourself invaluable in your new workplace by jumping in when needed, going above and beyond your job description and learning all you can.
Be positive
Even though it can be tough at times, it’s important to stay positive and have a good attitude. As a result of your hard work attitude, your coworkers will appreciate you. Don’t be afraid to step back and take a deep breath. It will all be okay.
Stay connected to recruiter
Staying connected to your recruiter will help them find you the perfect contracts time after time. Let them know what’s going well and what could be better for you. Continual communication helps build a good relationship, and the better your recruiter knows you, the better they can assist.
Make friends with your new team & explore where you are
Your first assignment is likely to lead to some great friendships. If you need any assistance in adjusting to the new town, they might be able to show you around or give you some local recommendations. Maybe you’ll even meet another traveling healthcare professional.
Begin your adventure with travel healthcare companies
Your first assignment may be a tough one, but once you complete it you’ll be on your way to becoming a great traveling healthcare professional. Think about your love for traveling and why you love your job if you’re ever struggling. RTG Medical wants to be your traveling partner, so if you’re ready to begin your traveling career, contact us today!
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