Beyond 13 Weeks: Things to Consider When Extending Your Travel Contract

As an experienced traveler, you understand the unique nature of your career.

The ever-changing locations, diverse healthcare settings, and the opportunity to make a positive impact on patients’ lives are all part of the adventure. However, when the end of your 13-week contract approaches, you may find yourself facing a challenging decision: should you extend your contract or move on to a new assignment? Let’s explore some key factors to consider when navigating this decision-making process.

1. Professional Growth and Skill Development:

One crucial aspect to weigh when deciding whether to extend your contract is the potential for professional growth and skill development. Assess whether the current assignment offers opportunities to expand your expertise, gain exposure to specialized areas, or learn new techniques. Consider the long-term benefits of acquiring additional skills and how they align with your career goals. If the assignment provides valuable learning experiences and enhances your marketability as a travel healthcare professional, extending the contract may be a wise choice.

2. Relationship with the Facility and Team:

The relationships you build with the facility and your colleagues play a significant role in your overall experience as a travel healthcare professional. Evaluate the dynamics and rapport you have established with the facility staff, including nurses, physicians, and administrators. Strong connections and a supportive work environment can greatly enhance job satisfaction and contribute to a positive experience. If you have formed valuable relationships and feel well-integrated into the team, extending your contract may provide a sense of continuity and further strengthen those connections.

3. Work-Life Balance and Personal Priorities:

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is vital for your overall well-being and job satisfaction. Consider how the current assignment aligns with your personal priorities and lifestyle. Evaluate factors such as location, proximity to loved ones, flexibility in scheduling, and opportunities for personal pursuits outside of work. If the assignment allows you to strike a balance between your professional and personal life, extending your contract might provide the stability and fulfillment you desire. For tips on how to manage your work-life balance while on assignment, check out our recent blog!

4. Financial Considerations:

Financial factors often come into play when making decisions about contract extensions. Assess whether the compensation and benefits package offered for extending your contract aligns with your financial goals and expectations. Consider factors such as housing allowances, stipends, overtime opportunities, and the potential for bonuses or incentive programs. Conduct thorough research and compare your options to ensure the extension offers a fair and rewarding financial arrangement.

5. Desire for New Experiences:

One of the main reasons many travel healthcare professionals choose this career path is the desire for new experiences and the opportunity to explore different locations. If you have a strong sense of wanderlust and a longing for fresh environments, you may prefer to move on to a new assignment rather than extending your current contract. Consider whether the prospect of experiencing different healthcare settings, cultures, and regions aligns with your personal and professional aspirations.

6. Career Planning and Future Opportunities:

When contemplating whether to extend your contract, it’s crucial to consider how it fits into your long-term career planning. Reflect on your ultimate career goals and how the current assignment contributes to them. Assess the potential for future opportunities, such as advanced positions, leadership roles, or the chance to work in highly sought-after healthcare facilities. Evaluate how extending your contract aligns with your overall career trajectory and advancement.

The decision to extend or not to extend your 13-week contract as a travel healthcare professional is multi-faceted and deeply personal.

Consider factors such as professional growth, relationships with the facility and team, work-life balance, financial considerations, desire for new experiences, and future career opportunities. Reflect on your unique priorities, goals, and aspirations to make an informed decision that aligns with your professional and personal journey. Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all answer—trust your instincts and choose the path that resonates most strongly with your ambitions and values. As an Inner Circle member, know that your Go Team is here for you every step of the way! Reach out to your recruiter to see if extending is a good option for you.