Sumo Medical Staffing

It’s your first day on the job as a locum tenens provider. You’re confident in your experience and skill level. Your resume speaks for itself, and your letters of recommendations were glowing. But now, it’s time to make a first impression. 

While you may only be on site for a few days, a few weeks or a month, building and maintaining professional relationships as a locum is a big part of the job. The relationships you make during each assignment will add to your referral base, increase your name recognition and grow your professional network. 

Here’s how to build those strong relationships during a locum assignment no matter where you are! 

Be Professional

No two professional relationships are the same. You’ll form relationships with your patients, colleagues, administration, and other medical staff. Make sure you embody competence, responsibility and respect. Do your best work while facilitating the best work from others. 

Be Reliable

You wouldn’t have this locum assignment if you weren’t needed. Everyone is glad you’re here! But they do need you to jump in and do whatever is needed. That means being reliable and punctual.  

When you commit to a certain work schedule, make sure you can be there. Canceling last minute does not leave a good impression and word spreads quickly in the medical field. Also, be punctual. This doesn’t only mean showing up on time for your shift. Be punctual in responding to emails and phone calls, or to consults from other providers.  

Documentation

Proper documentation could very well be the easiest way for you to make a good impression.  Complete and accurate documentation will definitely move you toward the top of the list next time the employer is seeking locum coverage.  

Respect

And last, but not least, show respect for those you come in contact with – meaning no inappropriate jokes or innuendos. There’s no faster way to compromise your professional image. 

Just like in any relationship or friendship, communication is key. Don’t expect your new colleagues to read your mind – and don’t try to read theirs! Use this time as a locum tenens provider as a chance to expand your clinical skills, refine your interpersonal skills and grow as an individual. 

In a few months, you get to start all over again in a new assignment where you get to meet another extraordinary group of people!