Explore key tips for hiring travel nurses to meet short-term and long-term staffing needs. From job descriptions to retention, learn how to recruit top nursing talent effectively.
The demand for travel nurses in North America continues to rise as healthcare organizations face staffing shortages, seasonal surges, and new patient care needs. For recruiters and healthcare facilities, bringing in the right travel nurses can be the difference between maintaining safe patient ratios and struggling with gaps in care. Whether you are hiring for a few weeks or several months, having a clear strategy will help you find and retain skilled professionals.
Here are detailed tips to help you recruit effectively for both short-term and long-term travel nursing roles.
Travel nurses are registered nurses who take on temporary assignments across different regions, usually lasting 8 – 26 weeks. They are often hired to cover staffing shortages, assist during peak seasons, or support long-term vacancies. Because their roles can vary, it’s important to define the length of assignment and expectations from the start.
A strong job description is key to attracting the right candidates. Travel nurses often have many options, so clarity matters. Include:
The more transparent you are, the more likely you’ll attract candidates who are a good fit.
While competitive pay packages are essential, many travel nurses also look for perks such as:
By showcasing these benefits, you make your openings more appealing.
Recruitment doesn’t end with filling one position. To prepare for future staffing needs, keep a database of nurses you’ve worked with before. Stay in touch with past candidates and let them know about upcoming opportunities. Building long-term relationships with travel nurses increases the likelihood they’ll return for future contracts.
Posting on general job boards may not always reach the right candidates. Instead, use platforms and agencies that focus on healthcare and travel nursing. This ensures your job listings reach professionals actively looking for travel roles. You can also partner with specialized recruitment firms, like Beauty Incubator Recruitment, to connect with qualified candidates faster.
Travel nurses are often making quick decisions between multiple offers. If your recruitment process is slow or unclear, you risk losing strong candidates. Streamline your application process, respond quickly to inquiries, and offer interviews within days. Being flexible with start dates or shift preferences can also make your roles more attractive.
When filling longer contracts, retention becomes critical. Provide consistent communication, check in regularly to resolve issues, and ensure nurses feel supported throughout their assignment. Nurses who feel valued are more likely to complete their contracts and accept extensions.
Each state or province has its own licensing requirements for travel nurses. Some regions participate in multi-state licensure compacts, while others require additional paperwork. As a recruiter, staying updated on these rules saves time and prevents delays in onboarding. Providing support with licensing or credentialing can make your positions stand out.
Travel nurses often integrate into new teams quickly. Beyond technical skills, look for candidates who are adaptable, collaborative, and strong communicators. These qualities ensure smoother transitions and better patient care.
Finally, measure the success of your recruitment strategies. Track time-to-fill, retention rates, and feedback from both nurses and healthcare facilities. Use this data to refine your approach for future placements.
The travel nursing profession has seen significant growth since 2020, largely due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Hospitals and healthcare facilities faced unprecedented staffing challenges, and travel nurses played a crucial role in addressing shortages. Two main factors continue to drive demand for travel nurses today:
Recruiting travel nurses requires more than just filling a vacancy – it’s about building trust, offering clear and attractive packages, and supporting nurses so they can provide excellent patient care. By combining clear communication, competitive benefits, and efficient processes, you can successfully fill both short-term and long-term roles. With the right strategies, travel nurses will not only meet your immediate needs but may also become trusted professionals you can rely on for future assignments.
At Beauty Incubator Recruitment, we specialize in connecting healthcare organizations with highly skilled professionals, including travel nurses, who are ready to make an impact. Whether your needs are urgent or long-term, we can help you find the right fit.
A travel nurse is a registered nurse who takes temporary assignments in different healthcare facilities, usually lasting 4 to 26 weeks. They help cover staffing shortages, seasonal surges, or specialized unit needs, providing flexibility for both nurses and employers.
To attract travel nurses, clearly outline the assignment length, location, and unit type. Offer competitive pay, travel or housing stipends, flexible scheduling, and support with licensing. Quick and transparent communication also helps secure top candidates.
Long-term travel nurses provide consistent staffing, reduce overtime costs, and bring specialized skills. They help maintain patient care quality while allowing permanent staff to focus on training or other responsibilities. Retention strategies, like regular check-ins and support, are key for long-term success.
Yes. Licensing requirements vary by region. Some U.S. states participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact, allowing multi-state practice, while others require separate licenses. Supporting nurses with paperwork or guidance can speed up onboarding and make your positions more attractive.
Beyond clinical skills, prioritize soft skills such as adaptability, communication, and teamwork. Orient travel nurses to facility policies, introduce them to colleagues, and maintain regular check-ins to ensure smooth integration and high-quality patient care.
