A new year is a great time to revisit some of the elements required for locum tenens success. The 2010 job market promises to be an active one, and the simple tips below will keep you prepared for the next opportunity.
Update your CV. Are you current with recent work experiences, address and other contact information? What about the addition of new skills, licenses, publications or certifications? If you haven’t checked out your CV in a while, chances are it’s time for a quick review and revision.
Refresh your References. You’ll need three to five strong references for almost any job, but keep a longer list ready just in case some of your contacts are unreachable. Make sure your references include previous supervisors (not just peers), and don’t hesitate to ask for a new reference at the end of a positive locum assignment. If you’re listing someone you haven’t spoken with in a while, now is a great time to reach out and renew that relationship. Remind the individual that you are still listing them as a professional reference, and consider asking them to write a newly dated reference letter.
Acquire New Licenses. Want to work in sunny Florida? Then you better have a Florida license (unless you plan to work at a federal facility). If you have your eye on locum work in a new locale, now is the time to become licensed in your states of choice. Remember that licensure in some states can take three months or longer, so don’t delay. It’s also a good time to check on certifications (like ACLS) to be sure you are up to date and, if not, renew as applicable.
Organize your Locum Life. Working as a locum tenens requires some organization. Some tips: Keep a log of assignments and facilities to which you’ve been submitted. Keep a folder of expenses and pay information for tax purposes. Maintain electronic files of references and other common locum tenens paperwork, and transfer copies to a flash drive so you have them on the road for easy access.
Talk to Your Recruiter. The best way to book consistent locum work that meets your goals is to partner with a recruiter who knows your interests, pay expectations, skills and availability. Even if you have worked with a recruiter or firm in the recent past, a periodic check-in is a good idea. Have your personal circumstances changed? Do you have more or less availability than you have had in the past? Are there new locations you seek to work in? All of this information will help you and your recruiter build a plan to keep you happily employed throughout the year.
Tags: 2010, locum tenens, recruiter
