A Guide to Finding the Best Travel Healthcare Assignment: Advice from Ventura MedStaff’s Head of Sales and Training
Finding the right travel healthcare assignment can feel overwhelming, especially with so many factors to consider. At Ventura MedStaff, we know that every traveler’s journey is unique, and we’re here to help you navigate the process with confidence. To give you the best advice, we sat down with Brian, our Head of Sales and Training, to break down what really matters when choosing an assignment. From understanding your non-negotiables to working with the right recruiter, here’s how you can set yourself up for success on the road.
Know Your Non-Negotiables
Before diving into job searches, Brian advised travelers to define what truly matters to them. “Every traveler has different priorities, so it’s important to determine your non-negotiables,” he said. “It all comes down to each traveler’s unique needs and preferences.” Some things Brian says travelers can consider when looking at non-negotiables are shift preferences, call-off policy, location, and a pay range. “You need to know where you can be flexible and where you can’t.”
He also stressed the importance of making sure your recruiter is on the same page. “Your recruiter should know exactly what you’re looking for, so there are no surprises when an offer comes through,” Brian remarked. “Clear communication from the start makes for a smoother job search.”
Ensure Clarity
When asked about common mistakes, Brian didn’t see them as outright errors but rather as areas where clarity is crucial. “The biggest issue is not having a full understanding of all expectations,” he said. “During the interview, did you hear the manager say they would consider block scheduling, or did they guarantee block scheduling? Did your recruiter clarify if the pay rate was gross or net?” Another area travelers will want to ensure clearness on is housing options where their assignment is located. Brian highly encourages travelers to look at what housing is available before signing their contract so that they can be as prepared as possible.
“These are the things that impact your happiness and success on assignment,” he noted. “It’s a team effort to get everything clarified before you sign.” Brian emphasized that every person on the team, the traveler, the recruiter, the facility, everyone is responsible for clarifying every detail.
The Importance of a Good Recruiter
Finding the right travel healthcare assignment starts with finding the right recruiter. “A good recruiter doesn’t just send you jobs—they build a relationship where you feel heard and understood,” Brian said. “The best assignment isn’t necessarily one that checks every box on your wish list, but one where you clearly understand what you’re getting and can confidently say, ‘Yes, this works for me.’” This best happens when the recruiter and traveler work as a team.
Don’t Wait to Get Started
Many travelers wonder if certain seasons or states offer better job opportunities. Brian acknowledged that the market is always shifting. “Things change by the minute,” he said. “The best way to stay ahead is to keep an eye on job boards and stay in close contact with your recruiter.”
He also warned against waiting for the “perfect” job. “The right time is the one that works for you,” Brian emphasized. “Don’t hold out for the promise of something better—if you see a great opportunity, go for it.”
Adapting to a Changing Job Market
The travel healthcare market has shifted in the past year, and Brian highlighted key trends travelers should be aware of. “Pay has come down from the highs of the pandemic and is now trending closer to pre-COVID levels,” he said. “Jobs don’t stay open long, and competition is tough. If you see a position you like, submit yourself right away—it could be gone tomorrow.”
Facilities have also become more selective with their hiring. “If you’re asking for start date adjustments or too much time off, they may move on to another candidate,” Brian noted. “Flexibility can give you a competitive edge.”
Travel with Ventura MedStaff
Ultimately, the best travel healthcare assignment is one that aligns with your priorities and expectations. Brian’s advice? “Be clear about what you want, communicate openly with your recruiter, and act quickly when the right opportunity comes up,” he said. “If you do those things, you’ll set yourself up for a great experience.”
If you’re ready to find the best healthcare assignment, Ventura MedStaff has your back. Connect with a recruiter today to learn more!
