Whether you are looking for a permanent, per diem, or travel nursing position, working with a medical staffing agency is a good option. Along with doctors, teachers, administrative assistants, and web designers, staffing agencies are great for flexibility and for filling specialized positions.
Hospitals, pharmacies, and other medical facilities often rely on a staffing agency because they know that these recruiters will locate and place qualified staff for permanent, contract, or daily positions. So when medical facilities have job openings, they rely on medical staffing agencies to help meet their needs.
If you think that you have to stay with a company for ten, twenty or more years to gain reputation and experience, you will be surprised that these “thoughts” are no longer considered. With the collapse of highly esteemed corporations and businesses, people are looking to start over or join a smaller company with a better hiring reputation. A staffing agency is a place to start when looking for both a position and a relocation. This offers a wealth of growth opportunities for both healthcare facilities and job seekers.
Medical staffing agencies allow great flexibility regarding contract work, assignment, and work location for traveling nurses or per diem staff. Accepting a 13-week assignment is much better than knowing that you must stay in one position or location for a year or more. After the first assignment, you can choose a different assignment or location based on your interests. Nurses and other health profession related jobs will see a steady stream of jobs now and in the future.
Working with a staffing agency can also be a link to permanent employment, if you wish. Medical staffing agencies offer a wealth of knowledge about healthcare careers, current and future trends, in addition to the skills and certifications that employers desire. Additionally, a medical staffing agency can offer highly competitive salaries, which will provide not only financial opportunities but advanced job preferences as well.
Often times when a person starts a new job or changes careers, they likely don’t have immediate health care coverage, paid leave, or retirement benefits. However, medical staffing agencies may offer medical and dental benefits, paid vacation and sick leave, as well as other immediate benefits. Ask the medical staffing agency what benefits are available for travel nurses, per diem nursing staff, and permanent placement jobs.
Do you think working with a medical staffing agency sounds like a viable option? It is very easy to get started. Follow these steps:
1. Search for medical staff recruiters in your area or online. Look for companies that are accredited or certified by the Joint Commission, so you can be assured of good practice and ethics.
2. Register with one or more medical recruitment companies because you are not limited to just one. You can choose to work for one agency for one assignment and then work for another. It’s your choice.
3. Complete an application online or in person. Most agencies will have someone available to answer any questions you may have.
4. Make all certifications, degrees, and a resume available to your recruiter so they can match your skills and experience with the employer, and keep a copy for your records.
5. If you are certified in a certain area, you may need to take a test. However, ask your contact person about the prerequisites for any interested position.
6. Be interviewed, if applicable. Some staffing agencies have an interview process that is a lot like an informal meeting to review your skills, experiences, and certifications.
7. Select the type of assignment you want. You have options: travel positions, per diem, contract, or permanent placement.
The benefits of choosing a medical staffing agency are numerous and whether you work long or short term, a reputable medical staffing company will help you achieve your career goals.
