Step 18 – 8 Weeks Left on Your Travel Nurse Contract: What’s Next?

Alright, travel nurse! You’ve hit the 8-week mark on your current gig—time to start thinking about what’s next. It’s wild to realize that halfway through, you’re already plotting your next adventure. But that’s the rhythm of travel nursing: a constant flow from one assignment to the next.

If you’re new to this game, the first contract might feel like a whirlwind. But stick with it, and you’ll soon find your groove. By the time you hit week 6, most nurses are pretty well settled into the hospital scene and finally starting to explore the city. If you haven’t ventured out yet, now’s your cue to get moving!

Planning the Next Move

So, what’s the game plan? Do you want to stay put? Are there opportunities to extend? Or are you itching to explore somewhere new? Maybe you’re even thinking travel nursing isn’t your jam and you’re ready to head back to a staff position. These are the questions you should be mulling over right now.

Here’s a quick checklist to guide you:

1. Extension Opportunities: Are there options to extend your current contract? Do you like the job and location enough to stay longer?
2. Future of Travel Nursing: Are you still excited about travel nursing, or are you considering a change?
3. Upcoming Life Events: Do you have any major life events coming up that might impact your next contract? Maybe you need to be in a specific area or take a break?
4. Local Activities: If you’re thinking of extending, are there enough local activities to keep you entertained?
5. Next Destination: Where do you want to head next? Start browsing job postings and checking out new locations.

Touch Base with Your Recruiter

Now’s the time to loop in your recruiter. Give them a hint of your thoughts—something like, “I’m enjoying it here and might consider extending” or “I’m excited about new opportunities, so let’s start scouting for the next gig.” This way, they’re in the loop and can start working on options for you.

Collecting References

By week 8, you should be getting solid feedback from your manager and co-workers. It’s a great time to ask for references. Check if your company has a standard form or find a basic template online. These references are gold for your travel nurse portfolio, so keep them updated and in your back pocket.

Market Trends

Job availability for travel nursing can shift, so stay on top of the trends. Typically, jobs are posted 4 to 6 weeks before the start date. Touch base with your recruiter about market trends and timing to make sure you’re not missing out on opportunities.

Time flies when you’re on the road, so make sure you’re gearing up for your next move with plenty of time to spare. The adventure is just beginning—keep your eyes open and your plans flexible!

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