November 11, 2024, 2:52 am
Ah, the holiday season in healthcare staffing! It’s as predictable as fruitcake and family Zoom calls: many healthcare travelers finish their assignments before the holidays and decide to hold off on new ones until after New Year’s. The result? A mad scramble for assignments come January or settling for that less-than-ideal job in a town you need a map to find.
After years in healthcare staffing, I’ve seen this movie unfold year after year. But don’t worry! Here’s the insider’s guide on how you can use the holidays to your advantage, stack that cash, and enjoy some holiday cheer along the way!
Holiday Time Off? That’s for the Other Guys
As a traveler, you’re the MVP facilities count on during the holidays. While permanent staff are checking out for the season, travelers like you have the chance to step up and reap the rewards. Instead of looking forward to a week off in December, look at this as your time to score top assignments with less competition.
Why Holiday Shifts Are the Gift that Keeps on Giving
- Less Competition = Star of the Show
With half the healthcare traveler community holding out for the new year, you’re perfectly positioned. Fewer travelers around means you get first dibs on premium assignments—before the January rush hits like Black Friday! - Premium Pay (Think: Holiday $$$)
Want to reach those financial goals sooner? Say hello to holiday rates! Holiday shifts come with bonus pay, overtime, and premiums that’ll make even Santa take notice. While others are waiting for the New Year, you’re cashing in on shifts that pay generously. - Your Pick of Assignments
By saying “yes” to holiday assignments, you lock in better rates and locations before the January competition swells. Waiting until the new year means competing for jobs with hundreds of others—and, well, they can’t all snag the top spots.
Re-Gifting the Holiday Season: Celebrating Off-Peak (and Saving Big)
Here’s a holiday hack: just because you’re on assignment for Christmas doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate. It just means getting creative (and a little thrifty).
- Off-Peak Celebration
Instead of pushing for December 23-26 off and paying top dollar for travel, try celebrating December 19-22 instead. Your family will likely love the idea of stretching the holiday season, and you’ll score flights at a fraction of peak prices. It’s a win-win! - Skip the Airport Madness
While everyone else is braving airport crowds for a $15 sandwich, you’re working a holiday shift and avoiding the chaos. Later, you can snag the best post-holiday travel deals when the prices—and people—return to normal.
Bringing the Festive Spirit to the Workplace: Deck the Halls with Scrubs and Stethoscopes
So you’re working Christmas Day? Why not go all in on the holiday spirit? Toss on a Santa hat, bring in some holiday decorations, or organize a Secret Santa with your colleagues. A dash of holiday cheer can make the shift feel festive, and you’ll be spreading positive vibes to everyone around you (plus, you might score some holiday treats in the process).
The Holiday Season as a Traveler: The Ultimate Cheat Code
Working through the holidays might not be everyone’s ideal way to spend the season, but for healthcare travelers, it’s a savvy move. You’re stepping in when facilities need it most, banking solid earnings, and skipping the January job rush. And when you’re ready to celebrate, it’s off-peak, with less stress, and a wallet that would make even the Grinch smile.
So this holiday season, think about skipping the holdout. Embrace the benefits of working while others are decking their halls, and set yourself up for a year that’s financially merry and bright.
