Important questions to ask during a travel interview

Before an interview it is always a good idea to have a list of questions prepared. Most interviews as a traveler will be over the phone and are very relaxed. However, the interview is the best chance for you to extract some details on what to expect, before you sign on for the next three months. Use this time to get as much detail from the manager before you decide to take the contract. Below are a few questions you should ask during your interview before taking a travel contract.

What shift am I needed to work?

This information is usually known before you submit to a contract. It’s a good idea to just confirm the shift so that there isn’t any miscommunication or confusion. It’s also a good idea to check if the facility offers your preferred shift whether it be 8-, 10-, or 12 hr-shifts on day, evening, or night shifts. Some managers are willing to accommodate your desired shift even if the job was posted differently. You never know unless you ask.

How many other employees will be on that shift?

As a traveler you won’t have all the answers on how to handle rare or random situations. It’s ideal to have at least one permanent staff member working with you, so that they can help deal with whatever issues may arise. If you are running the show by yourself, make sure there is a person you can call if a problem comes up.

What department or job duties are expected of me?

Will you be working in a generalist setting, or expected to cover a single department. Is phlebotomy required or do you have phlebotomists during your shift. Understanding what is expected of you can be pivotal when deciding to take a contract. Always make sure the job expectations are clear before accepting a position.

Will there be on-call?

Many facilities, especially in rural areas, require you to be on-call. If on-call is necessary, ask about the on-call schedule requirements to make sure you are willing to satisfy them.

Do you offer block scheduling?

Some facilities do block scheduling. Many people prefer this so that they can have more consecutive days to explore their new location. If you work 7 on - 7 off you can even travel back home to see family on your days off.

Is there a rotating weekend work requirement?

Since most facilities require 24/7 staffing, it is inevitable that you will work some weekends. Make sure you know how often you are expected to work weekends during your contract. If you don't mind working weekends (It’s usually less busy and more relaxed) you may want to offer to work more weekends in trade for longer stretches of week days off.

How long is training?

The standard for many facilities will give travelers two or three weeks to complete training and sign off competencies before starting your assigned shift. Ask the manager what the training expectation is before committing to the contract.

What is the dress code?

Some facilities require specific scrub colors. If this is the case, your agency should reimburse you to some extent for the cost of the new scrubs. Just make sure you save your receipts.

What analyzers/LIS do you use?

This is a good topic to cover so that you know which systems you are familiar with and what you might need more training on. If you are a pro on their system, you may use this as an extra selling point to solidify yourself as the perfect candidate for the job.

How many travelers do you have?

This question can shed some light on the laboratory’s situation. When a facility has multiple travelers, it might be a sign that the lab is in disarray or that they have an underlying issue with retaining full time employees. Some common reasons for high employee turnover are poor management, non-competitive staff pay, high cost of living, and incompetent scheduling.

Can you tell me about the area?

Some interviewers will be more than willing to share about their hometown. This is an excellent opportunity to learn about your new location from a local’s perspective. If you haven’t secured housing yet, you might even want to inquire if they know anyone who is renting a room.

Closing the interview

As the interview draws to a conclusion, remember to thank them for their time and express interest in joining their team. Most of the time the interviewer will leave you with their contact information if you have any additional questions or concerns.

Getting a contract

Notify your recruiter once you complete your interview. Let them know how it went and if you are still interested in moving forward with the assignment. Before you commit to the contract, make sure you can procure affordable housing and complete this checklist before you start your assignment.