Planning a Move as a Nurse? Check Out These Tips for Finding Your Next Job
Whether it’s applying to a hospital a few hours away or completely across the country - trying to find a job in a different location as a nurse presents some unique challenges. How can you be sure the new organization will be right for you? How do you determine what’s a good fit and what’s not (especially if you can’t visit first)?!
Here are some tips to consider when applying to jobs outside of your local area.
Get Your Nursing License Squared Away
Will your license transfer if you move to another state? Or do you have to do something to be eligible to work in the new location? Obviously this is an important thing to figure out - and you'll want to do so early! It could take 1-2 months to transfer your license and start working, so you’ll want to be prepared for this.
The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) allows nurses to more easily transfer their license across state lines. The coalition really simplifies the licensure process - so it’s good to know if your state is included in the group. Check and see if your state is a compact state. Here are some examples of what the requirements may look like depending what state you’re moving from and which you’re moving to.
Start Your Research
Get to know the hospitals and units you’re applying to by looking up information online. Check out hospital websites for information about their specialties, accomplishments, and what they’re known for.
See if the hospital has a social media presence and maybe you can glean some additional information from that. Consider looking into travel nurse groups on Facebook - as you may be able to find out more information and perspectives about what it’s like to work at a certain hospital or unit.
If you have any friends, family, or acquaintances that may be familiar with the area - connect with them. Maybe they know someone who works at a certain hospital you’re interested in (or knows someone who knows someone) and they can connect you. Networking is a powerful tool!
Be Upfront During the Interview Process
After you’ve submitted your applications, once you’re contacted by the recruiter - be sure they know you’re not a local candidate. This will prevent any misconceptions and confusion and help with the interview process. Also - be clear about your moving timeline. If you absolutely can’t relocate for a few months - share that as well.
Request the Interview Format That You Need
Is the job you’ve applied for 3 hours away - but you’d prefer to make the drive to interview in person? Let them know! Is virtual the only option considering it’s all the way across the country? Be sure to share that!
Even if the organization is only doing virtual interviews but you want to come in-person, request if they can make an exception for you considering you are not from the area and want to see things for yourself. Still not an option? Request a shadow so you can still come on site prior to making a decision.
Use Technology to Your Advantage
Can’t visit prior to accepting the position? If the job is all the way across the country it may not be a feasible option for you. Request the ability to have a virtual meeting with some of the bedside RN’s on the unit. This will give you the ability to talk directly to other nurses who work there and hear what they have to say about the hospital. You can check out these potential future coworkers and see what they’re like.
Another good idea - see if the manager can send you a few pictures of the unit. Even if they’re not professional pictures and simply snapped from their phone, seeing the environment can help you get a better feeling for things.
Ask About a Relocation Bonus
If you’re offered the position, see if a relocation bonus is something they would consider to help with your moving expenses. It may be tied to a time commitment, but you could weigh that requirement on whether it would be worth it to you or not! This is a nice perk to help you financially with the move.
Moving to an unfamiliar place and starting a new job is scary, exciting, and stressful all wrapped together! Do your best to vet out your new job opportunity as best you can. But ultimately, if things don’t work out and it’s not right for you - know you don’t have to stay there forever! Once you’re settled into the area, you’ll be better positioned to look into other jobs that may be a better fit for you. Good luck!
