As a travel nurse, your career is filled with exciting opportunities to explore new places and gain diverse experiences through various travel nursing assignments. However, one challenge many travel nurses face is building meaningful connections while constantly moving. In this blog, we’ll explore practical strategies to help you create lasting relationships during your travel nursing journey.
Embrace your workplace community
Your first opportunity to connect with others is at your workplace. Don’t hesitate to introduce yourself to your colleagues and join in on staff activities. Many hospitals organize social events or have communal spaces where you can interact with your coworkers. For instance, volunteer to join the unit’s social committee or participate in hospital-wide wellness challenges. Some facilities even offer mentorship programs for travel nurses, pairing you with experienced staff members who can show you the ropes and introduce you to the local community.
Utilize social media and online forums
Join online communities specifically for travel nurses. Platforms like Facebook groups (e.g., “Travel Nurse Network – The Gypsy Nurse” with 187,000 members), Reddit forums (r/TravelNursing), or specialized nursing networks like AllNurses.com can help you connect with other professionals in similar situations. These platforms are helpful for sharing experiences, seeking advice on specific hospitals or agencies, and finding potential friends in your following assignment location. Many travel nurses use these forums to organize local meetups or find housing recommendations for their travel nursing assignments.
Attend local events and explore your new city
Make the most of your time in each new location by immersing yourself in local culture. Use apps like Meetup or Eventbrite to find events that match your interests. For example, if you’re a foodie, look for local food festivals or cooking classes. If you’re outdoorsy, join a local hiking group or participate in community clean-up events. Many cities also offer free guided tours led by locals. These tours can be an excellent way to learn about your new home and meet people with similar interests during your travel nursing assignments.
Consider co-living options
Co-living arrangements are an effective way to combat loneliness and quickly build a support system. For travel nurses, finding fully furnished rentals is often a top priority. Services like PadSplit offer shared living spaces ideal for travel nursing assignments. These fully furnished rentals provide the flexibility and convenience that travel nurses need, often including utilities and Wi-Fi in the cost. Some co-living spaces even organize weekly community events, like game nights or potluck dinners, helping you form connections quickly. This setup can be particularly beneficial in high-cost areas, allowing you to live in desirable neighborhoods while splitting expenses.
Stay in touch with your existing network
While building new connections is essential, remember to nurture your existing relationships. Use technology to your advantage – set up a weekly virtual game night with friends back home using platforms like Jackbox Games, or start a book club that meets via video call. For a personal touch, send postcards from each new location to family members. Consider creating a private blog or vlog to share your experiences, giving loved ones a window into your adventures and an easy way to stay updated on your life as a travel nurse.
Join professional associations
Becoming a member of nursing associations or attending nursing conferences can help you build a professional network. Specialty-specific groups or organizations like the American Nurses Association (ANA) often have local chapters that hold regular meetings. Attend these to network with local nurses and find mentors. Many associations also offer continuing education opportunities, allowing you to enhance your skills while making connections. Consider presenting your experiences as a travel nurse at nursing conferences – it’s a great way to establish yourself as an expert and meet others in the field.
Be open and approachable
Remember that building connections often starts with you. Maintain a positive attitude, be open to new experiences, and don’t be afraid to initiate conversations. Wear conversation starters, like a pin from your home state or a quirky badge reel, to spark interactions. Show genuine interest in others’ stories and practice active listening. Share your experiences as a travel nurse– many people are fascinated by this lifestyle and will be eager to learn more, potentially leading to meaningful conversations and connections.
Create routines in each new location
Establishing routines, like visiting the same coffee shop or gym regularly, can lead to familiar faces and potential friendships. These small, consistent interactions can gradually build into meaningful connections. For instance, join a local fitness class that meets several times a week or become a regular at a nearby farmer’s market. If you’re a pet owner, consistently visit the same dog park. For those who enjoy reading, find a cozy local bookshop or library where you can enjoy some downtime. These routines stabilize your ever-changing environment and increase your chances of forming local connections during your travel nursing assignments.
Prioritize fully furnished rentals
When searching for accommodation during your travel nursing assignments, prioritize fully furnished rentals. These turnkey solutions allow you to focus on your work and building connections rather than worrying about furniture and household items. Many travel nurses find that fully furnished rentals provide a home-like atmosphere, making settling into each new location easier. Websites specializing in short-term, fully furnished rentals for travel nurses can be invaluable resources for finding suitable housing for your assignments.
Building a support system and making connections as a travel nurse takes effort, but the rewards are well worth it. By following these strategies and prioritizing fully furnished rentals, travel nurses can create a fulfilling personal and professional life during their travel nursing assignments. Remember, each new assignment is not just a job opportunity but a chance to expand your network, find comfortable housing, and enrich your life with new experiences and relationships. With the right approach to housing and community engagement, you can make the most of your exciting career as a travel nurse.
