Are you an aspiring traveling therapist looking for short-term assignments? With hundreds of staffing agencies to choose from, finding the best travel therapy company can be overwhelming. But fear not! In this article, we’ll explore the top factors to consider when selecting an agency that aligns with your priorities. So, let’s dive in and find the perfect fit for you!
Travel Therapy Job Inventory
Different agencies have access to varying job opportunities. While most agencies offer skilled nursing facility (SNF) jobs, if you’re looking for something beyond the SNF market, you may need to search further. Some agencies specialize in specific geographic locations, like New York City, while others focus on particular settings such as schools. To explore an agency’s job inventory, check their website listings or job boards. Additionally, don’t hesitate to ask your recruiter about the range of available jobs.
Benefits
As a travel therapist, compensation goes beyond just money. Consider the benefits offered by different agencies and choose the ones that suit your needs. Remember that benefits are factored into your weekly pay. For example, an agency with excellent benefits might pay less weekly than one with minimal benefits and vice versa. Keep in mind that nothing in travel therapy is free, and every benefit comes out of your paycheck in some way.
Some common benefits to consider include:
Health Insurance
- How much does it cost per paycheck?
- Does it start from day one or later in the contract?
- Are there high deductibles?
- Can you keep the health insurance after a contract? If so, for how long?
- Are short-term or long-term disability options available?
Retirement Planning
- Is there an option to opt-in for a 401k or similar plan? If yes, after how many days of work?
- Does the company offer matching contributions?
Mentorship
- Does the agency have a program that pairs new travelers with mentors? Is mentorship something that you desire?
Incentives
- Does the agency provide loyalty incentives?
- How long do you need to work for the agency to receive these loyalty bonuses?
- Current loyalty bonuses may include paid time off, a free vacation to the Caribbean, student loan payments, and scholarships.
Money
While money matters, it’s essential to consider the whole pay package. One agency may offer $100 or even $200 more per week than another, but that doesn’t necessarily make it the best fit for you. A higher-paying agency might deduct more for health insurance or lack access to a 401k and mentorship programs. Therefore, evaluate the entire pay package, including loan reimbursements, scholarship opportunities, and monetary bonuses.
Recruiter
Your working relationship with a recruiter is crucial when selecting a travel therapy company. After all, the recruiter is your primary point of contact with the agency. When evaluating a recruiter, consider the following:
- Does the recruiter appear honest and knowledgeable about your needs?
- Can the recruiter provide references from other therapists they have worked with?
- Is the recruiter available when you need to communicate, even outside regular working hours?
- Can you effectively communicate with the recruiter, or are there any issues with missing texts or emails?
- Trust your instincts – do you feel comfortable establishing a working relationship with this person?
Reviews of Travel Therapy Companies
Don’t underestimate the power of reviews! While people tend to write more negative reviews online, they still provide valuable insights into an agency’s reputation. Check out reviews on platforms like Google Business, Glassdoor, Facebook Business pages, and community forums to get a sense of what others are saying about a particular agency and its recruiters.
To Summarize
Finding the best travel therapy company starts with identifying your needs and desires. With hundreds of agencies to choose from, there is a perfect fit for everyone. Don’t hesitate to ask recruiters if they have the jobs, benefits, and compensation that meet your requirements. And if you find the search overwhelming, consider using Nomadicare, a platform that connects you with a hand-selected agency/traveler match.
Read more about travel therapy:
- How to Find Short-Term Housing for 13-Week Travel Contracts
- How to Get Started As a Traveling Therapist
- Understanding Travel Therapy Pay
- Understanding Health Insurance as a Traveling Therapist
Remember, finding the best travel therapy company is all about finding what works for you. So take your time, do your research, and embark on an incredible journey with the perfect agency by your side. Safe travels!
