How to Extend Your Travel Nurse Assignment
You need to have a good relationship with the manager, assess the facility’s needs and start the conversation early to extend your travel nurse assignment.
As a travel nurse, you've got the unique opportunity to experience different locations, healthcare settings, and professional challenges. But how to extend your travel nurse assignment if you like settling at one place for a bit longer? Extending your travel nurse assignment can be a great way to continue enjoying the benefits of your current placement while enhancing your career. Here’s how you can successfully extend your assignment.
1. Start the Conversation Early
It is easy to be lured by the top per diem nursing locations in the USA. You tend to stay at a place where you are earning well and getting additional benefits, so the first step in extending your travel nurse assignment is to express your interest early. Don’t wait until the last minute—initiate the conversation with your recruiter and your on-site supervisor well before your contract ends. This gives everyone ample time to assess the situation, review staffing needs, and make the necessary arrangements.
Tip: Aim to bring up the extension at least 4-6 weeks before your current contract ends. This timeframe is ideal for negotiations and approvals.
2. Assess the Facility's Needs
Understanding the facility’s staffing needs is crucial. If the hospital is still experiencing high patient volumes or if they have ongoing staffing shortages, they may be more inclined to extend your contract. Ask your on-site manager if they anticipate a continued need for travel nurses and express your willingness to stay on.
Tip: Show that you’re in tune with the facility's needs. Your awareness and proactive approach can set you apart from other nurses who might not be as attuned to the hospital's situation.
3. Demonstrate Your Value
During your assignment, go above and beyond in your role. It is important to advance your career as a travel nurse. Your performance and attitude play a significant part in whether an extension is offered. Be reliable, adaptable, and collaborative. A positive attitude, strong work ethic, and ability to fit in with the team will make the decision to keep you on an easy one for the facility.
Tip: Keep a record of positive feedback and accomplishments during your assignment. Use this information when discussing the possibility of an extension with your recruiter or manager.
4. Negotiate Wisely
When it comes to negotiating your extension, be prepared. Consider what’s most important to you—whether it’s pay, shift preferences, housing, or other benefits. Use your initial contract as a baseline but be open to adjustments that could make the extension more appealing to both you and the facility.
Tip: If you’re in a high-demand specialty or working in a location with a nurse shortage, you may have more leverage to negotiate a better rate or benefits.
5. Consider the Timing
Sometimes, the timing of your request can influence whether an extension is possible. If the facility is in the middle of budget planning or a busy season, they may be more likely to approve an extension. Conversely, if the facility is anticipating a slow period, they might be less inclined to keep travel nurses on.
Tip: Ask your recruiter about the timing of your request and how it might align with the facility's budgeting and staffing cycles.
6. Stay Flexible
Flexibility is key when negotiating an extension. Be open to adjusting your schedule, taking on additional responsibilities, or even working in a different department. The more flexible you are, the more likely the facility will see value in keeping you on.
Tip: If the facility can’t extend your assignment right away, ask if they’d be willing to bring you back in a few weeks or months. Keeping the door open for future opportunities can be beneficial.
7. Leverage Your Recruiter’s Expertise
Your recruiter is your advocate in this process. They have the experience and industry knowledge to help you navigate the extension process, negotiate terms, and communicate effectively with the facility. Keep your recruiter informed about your intentions and work closely with them to achieve the best outcome.
Tip: Trust your recruiter’s advice, but also be clear about your own needs and goals. A good recruiter will work to find a balance that suits both you and the facility.
8. Have a Backup Plan
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, an extension might not be possible. Whether it’s due to budget constraints, staffing changes, or other factors, it’s essential to have a backup plan. Stay in close contact with your recruiter, and be ready to discuss new opportunities if an extension doesn’t work out.
Tip: Use this as an opportunity to explore a new location or facility that might offer even better experiences and career growth.
Conclusion
Extending your travel nurse assignment can provide continuity, stability, and further professional development. By being proactive, demonstrating your value, and working closely with your recruiter and facility, you can increase your chances of securing an extension that benefits everyone involved. Explore informative blogs on the website of Nurssy to know more about how to extend your travel nurse assignment.