Step 9 – Sealing the Deal

Sealing the Deal – The Travel Nurse’s Guide to Signing Smart

Hey there, road warrior! You’ve navigated the first 8 steps like a pro, and now you’re ready for the big moment: sealing the deal on your travel nurse contract. But before you pack your bags for that exciting new destination, let’s talk about making sure your contract is exactly what you need.

Review the Travel Nurse Contract

First things first, give that contract a thorough once-over. Sometimes, what’s written can differ from what was discussed – often just a clerical error that your agency can fix. Remember, your verbal acceptance hinges on the written contract being correct. If anything looks off, don’t hesitate to tell your recruiter you’ll only sign if XYZ is changed. No new contract, no deal – and that’s perfectly fine. Move on to another opportunity if needed.

Pro Tip:

Know every detail of your contract. Once you sign, you’re committed to all its terms.

Double-Check the Details

Back in Step #7, we talked about how to negotiate contracts – those verbal chats where you hopefully took notes. Now it’s time to ensure all those promises made by your recruiter are in writing. Even the small stuff matters, so go through your notes and verify every agreed-upon item is addressed in the contract.

Understand Your Contract

Don’t sign anything you don’t fully understand. If something is unclear, ask your recruiter for clarification. Once you sign, you’re bound by all the contract’s terms.

What to Look For in a Travel Nurse Contract:

• Guaranteed Hours: Make sure your weekly hours are guaranteed.
• Start and End Dates: Confirm these dates are set and clear.
• Cancellation Policy: Know the maximum cancellations allowed.
• Agreed Time Off: Verify any pre-approved time off is included.
• Missed Hour Penalties: Understand penalties for sickness or missed hours.
• Housing: Check details about location or stipend amounts and amenities.
• Pay Rates: Ensure hourly, holiday, and overtime rates are correct.
• Shift and Unit: Confirm your assigned shift and unit.
• On-Call Requirements: Know if you’re required to be on-call.
• Travel Reimbursements: Confirm reimbursement amounts and dates.
• Floating Agreements: Understand any floating requirements.
• Benefits: Check all offered benefits.
• Early Termination Penalties: Make sure these are detailed and clear.

Before you sign, take your time. Have a trusted friend or colleague review it if needed. If something doesn’t look right, let your recruiter know and don’t sign until it’s fixed.

Communicate with All Parties

You’ve probably applied for several positions with multiple companies. Once you’ve accepted a contract, it’s crucial to inform all other parties. Respectfully decline offers from companies you won’t be working with, thank them for their efforts, and let them know you’ll reconnect when your current contract ends. If there are pending submissions, ask to withdraw them.

Keep It Professional

Never burn bridges. Be upfront about working with multiple companies, and maintain professional communication. This industry is all about connections, and you never know when paths might cross again.

Sealing the deal is a big step, but with a careful eye and clear communication, you’ll ensure your next adventure is set up for success.

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