Unfortunately, most beginning travelers and a huge number of seasoned travelers simply don’t understand that they can NEGOTIATE for what they want in their travel contracts. They simply take the “deal” that is offered, no questions asked! I know I did when I first began to travel. Looking back it’s painful to know I left a lot of money on the table that could have gone straight into my wallet. Ouch!

In fact, even after years in the business I continue to meet medical travelers all over the country that remain unaware of the power they have to increase their travel nurse opportunities in a myriad of ways. They just keep accepting the initial deal offered. That doesn’t happen to me any more! I now negotiate every contract I am offered and as a result, I have increased my bank account and travel satisfaction to the max.

My point is this; whatever you receive in salary and benefits is often just what you are willing to settle for. The deal you are initially offered is not written in concrete! Negotiating for more consideration in a variety of areas within your contract will more often than not increase your hourly wage and every other benefit within your contract; things like upscale housing accommodations, a nicer car to drive, more extensive insurance coverage, reimbursement for uniforms and other job related necessities, and excellent per diem pay for things like groceries and personal needs just to name a few.

In the words of a refrain from an old song, “It pays to shop around!” However, my rendition of that old refrain is, “It pays to negotiate!”

John Douglas Ryder

travel nurse