My Company provides me with everything! Should I still allow
other companies to call me for other travel positions?
Absolutely! There is something to be said for loyalty, however you should first and foremost be loyal to yourself.
Travel Nursing Companies are in business to make money. You are a nurse, because nursing pays your bills. You would not do it for free. Why do it for less money if you don't have to?
I'm not saying hold out for every single dollar you can get and put Travel Company vs. Travel Company until the last minute leaving anyone hanging or burning bridges.
I am very familiar with the Travel Nursing Industry and at times it can be a very cut throat business. Some Nursing Agencies will have two nurses working the same hospital and the same floor and doing the same job, and they'll be housing them in the same apartment but paying them different hourly wages.
That isn't right.
I'm not saying you need to go shopping travel nursing companies once every 8 or 13 weeks, but there is certainly no harm in listening.
Out of experience, I can say it never hurts to have 2-3 back up companies that you establish a relationship with. Even though things may seem wonderful now, believe me it can change very quickly. I have been lucky because I do have those back up companies who have been there for me and have stayed in contact with me for several yrs even though I have never traveled with them.
Donna
I use 3 different companies. All are located in different geographical areas and I planned it that way. One in Florida, One in Texas and One in Nebraska. When it gets time to start looking for my next assignment I give them all a call and tell them where I am interested in going...and my the best man/woman win. Who comes up with the best opportunity at the right pay and location first is the winner. I like all 3 of the companies I work with, but I told them all straight up front how I would be considering assignments and that I did utilize several different companies to take care of my employment needs. I also carry my own insurance so I do not have to switch insurances back and forth all the time from assignment to assignment as I may not be with the same company two assignments in a row.
So yes, it is good to have a good company and a good recruiter. They are worth their weight in gold...but I hesitate in putting all my eggs in one basket. It also makes them compete for your services in finding you good jobs, in good locations, with good housing and good pay.:luck:
Oh yeah. try to keep yourself current with 3 companies so you know what else is out there.
Let them know when you have an assignment and when you will again be looking.
they should leave you alone until 4 weeks before your current assignment. then you should hear from them with what they can offer you and what they require to keep you current on their books so there is no delay due to paperwork.
try to have a big, a medium and a small company. try to have one local or specialising in your areas of interest (and all national).
so few companies have loyalty rewards or good 401Ks, so keep your options open and your eggs scattered
good luck
Frangi
Aaron nailed it. Be wise.
