It’s Time to Start Your First Assignment, Congratulations!
Embarking on your first locum tenens assignment can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. It’s a unique experience compared to a permanent position and may take some adjusting. All Medical’s expert placement teams have put their heads together and have five top tips to help ensure your success in locum staffing.
1. Do Some Background Research
Before you start your assignment, it’s crucial to gather as much information as possible. This will not only prepare you but also help you feel more confident in your new role. Some areas to start:
- The area: Familiarize yourself with the community where you’ll be working. Understanding the local culture and amenities can help you settle in faster.
- The facility you will work at and the health network as a whole: Learn about the institution’s reputation, its patient demographics, and any recent news or changes that might affect your work.
- The department and other doctors you may work with: Knowing your colleagues and the department’s workflow can help you integrate smoothly.
- Talk to another locum who has completed an assignment there: Get the inside scoop from someone who has firsthand experience. They can provide valuable insights and tips.
2. Finalize Logistics Before You Go
Once you have accepted an assignment, it is crucial to finalize all logistical arrangements to ensure a smooth transition. Confirm your start and end dates, travel plans, and housing arrangements well in advance. Make sure you have readily available contact information for your agency, specifically for travel-related emergencies such as canceled flights or other travel disruptions. Having this support will help you navigate any unexpected challenges that may arise. Properly organizing these details will reduce stress and allow you to focus on your new role without worrying about logistical issues.
3. Orientation is Your Time to Make Sure You’re as Prepped as Possible on Your First Day
Starting a new locum tenens assignment can be overwhelming, but having clear first-day instructions can help you hit the ground running and reduce any first-day anxieties. It’s important to be proactive and inquire about the orientation process, including its format—whether it is in-person, online, or a combination of both—and any requirements. Prepare a list of questions to maximize your learning during orientation. Use this time to confirm expectations regarding your role, responsibilities, and schedule. This will help prevent misunderstandings and ensure that everyone is on the same page. A thorough orientation not only eases your transition into the new assignment but also sets a positive tone for your tenure at the facility.
4. Introduce Yourself to as Many People as Possible When You First Arrive
Building relationships early on is key to a successful assignment.
When you first arrive at your locum tenens assignment, it’s crucial to introduce yourself to as many people as possible. Building relationships early on is key to a successful assignment. These connections will prove invaluable later on when you need help with critical situations or referrals. The quicker the staff becomes comfortable with who you are, the smoother and more efficient the working environment will be, ultimately benefiting patient outcomes. Make it a point to find the person most familiar with the facility and pick their brain about how things work, allowing you to get a behind-the-scenes tour and better understand the workflow.
5. It Will Get Hard
Locum tenens assignments are in high demand because there is a shortage of providers in most areas. This means a high probability of significant patient volume and case load which can cause feelings of overwhelm and burnout. A few things to keep in mind:
- Complete the Assignment: Do your best and complete the assignment even if it’s not what you expected or you are not enjoying your experience. You don’t have to extend your contract if you do not enjoy it as much as you would have liked, but seeing the contract through is important to keeping all future doors open and having a rewarding commitment. Your patients depend on you and the difference you will make in their lives and health.
- Seek Support: Lean on colleagues, family, and your recruiting contact at your locum staffing agency to talk through your stress and challenges.
- Talk to your recruiter about what you liked and didn’t like, they are your advocate for finding you the best fit for your next assignment. The stronger your relationship with your recruiter, the more likely you are to be presented with opportunities most in line with what you want.
6. Figure Out How You Want to Manage Your Schedule
Figuring out how to manage your schedule is a vital step in ensuring a successful locum tenens assignment. The flexibility of locum tenens work is a huge benefit, but it can be a shock at first. Once you have completed your first assignment, take time to sit down and map out your ideal working hours and days. Reflect on what worked well and what didn’t during your initial assignment. This reflection will help you understand your preferences and limits, allowing you to communicate your availability and needs clearly with your locum staffing agency for future assignments. Establishing a well-balanced schedule that fits your lifestyle will lead to a more satisfying and productive locum tenens experience. Check out our guide to establishing and maintaining a work-life balance in healthcare for more tips.
7. Stay Open to Learning and Adapting
Embrace the opportunity to learn and grow during your locum tenens assignment. Each new position offers unique challenges and learning experiences that can enhance your skills and adaptability. Be open to feedback from colleagues and be willing to adjust your methods to fit the new environment. Continuous learning not only helps you become a better healthcare provider but also makes you a more valuable member of any team you join in the future. Adaptability is crucial in locum tenens work, as you will be working in diverse settings with different protocols and practices. By staying open-minded and flexible, you can make the most of your locum tenens assignments and advance your career.
Conclusion
Stepping into the world of locum tenens as a locum doctor, locum nurse practitioner, or locum physician assistant can be an incredibly rewarding experience. By following these five tips, you can navigate your first assignment with confidence and ease. Remember, All Medical is here to support you every step of the way, ensuring you have a successful and fulfilling locum tenens career.
Don’t let the challenges of starting a new assignment overwhelm you. Embrace the adventure, utilize the resources available to you, and enjoy the unique opportunities that come with locum staffing. If you’re ready to take the next step, search for jobs or sign up for job alerts with All Medical today and discover how we can help you find the perfect locum tenens assignment.
