When taking the next step in your career, it’s important to do your research. After all, there are hundreds of staffing firms that are working to place healthcare workers all over the nation where they’re needed most. So how do you choose? Make sure the company is legitimate by checking the physical address, its website, social media presence, and most importantly – reviews. Reading honest feedback from current and previous employees can help you make your decision. Instead of us telling you why LeaderStat might be a great fit for you in your future travel adventures, we want you to hear it directly from one of our interim Certified Nursing Assistants! The following is a testimonial from LeaderStat Travel CNA, Loria. “My name is Loria. I was born and raised in the Lone Star State of Texas. I’d like to tell you a bit about my professional journey as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Prior to joining LeaderStat, I was working as a Home Health Aide for more than seven years. I’ve been a licensed CNA for about three years. In December 2020, I graduated from my Medical Assistant/Phlebotomy/EKG duo program. In April of 2021, I was working in hospice care and felt burned out and mentally drained. This is when I started truly considering the concept of traveling. I learned about interim travel opportunities from my sister-in-law. I started listening to what she told me and I realized that the amount of jobs were unbelievable. And I wanted in. I almost felt like a kid in the candy store for the first time. I knew it existed, but I didn’t realize how vast the possibilities were.
What could I do to make this transition to travel outside of my hometown and still be able to keep my peace of mind? I decided to take a leap of faith go for it. I had to experience travel work for myself. And it was, hands down, the best decision I ever made! I joined LeaderStat as a Travel CNA in October 2021. My first assignment in Lancaster, Pennsylvania was a great experience. I completed my assignment and decided to come back home to Texas for the holiday season. However, in January, I’ll be right back at it, with LeaderStat. I had traveled with a few other companies prior to joining LeaderStat. When traveling, you quickly learn about the pros and cons of assignments, as well as staffing firms.
My best assignment was with LeaderStat in Pennsylvania. Their team accommodates in every way by booking and paying for travel costs, hotel, and rental car. My recruiter, Lexi, and my consultant specialist, Holly, were always on standby when I had questions or concerns. And I can’t forget Gina, who made the application process quick and simple. These ladies are the bomb!
A few pieces of advice for my fellow travelers, or those who might be considering contract work in the future.
Some must-haves in terms of packing: personal hygiene products, identification and licensure information, nurse compression socks (thank me later!), scrubs, regular outfits for your days off, and comfortable sneakers.
Next, let’s talk about your mindset. To be successful, you must be open-minded and be flexible when it comes to changing settings. You’ll work with a lot of different people, who have different years of experience as well as personalities and styles.
My advice is, never discuss your pay or contract details while you’re on assignment. In my opinion, it’s best to keep your personal business private. And lastly, always show up professionally and do your job well. Let your work and demeanor speak for themselves!
I am a person who doesn’t mind going above and beyond for my team. I can’t tell you how great it makes me feel, as a CNA, to hear a resident say “Thank you for coming in when I needed you. Thank you for being attentive to my care. You always come in with such a great spirit and attitude.”
These comments confirm that being a CNA is my calling. Above all things, I feel I’m doing this work with purpose.
My favorite thing about doing interim travel work with LeaderStat is the option for flexibility. Because of LeaderStat, I was able to see my dad and brother for the first time in 12 years. As we know, work/life balance is key to feeling fulfilled. Being able to work, spend time with family, and be on a vacation away from my hometown – it can’t get any better than that!
I look forward to going on many more assignments with the LeaderStat team. Their team has been good to me since day one.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s make some power moves together!”
- Loria J.