How to Secure More Shifts as a Per Diem Nurse
Per diem nursing offers flexibility, greater control over your schedule, and often higher pay rates. But with so much freedom comes a common challenge—securing consistent shifts. If you've been struggling to pick up more per diem nurse jobs, you're not alone. The good news? There are practical steps you can take to stand out and stay in demand with healthcare facilities.
This guide will walk you through the strategies that can help you maximize opportunities in per diem nursing, whether you're new to the profession or a seasoned pro looking for ways to increase your work hours.
Why Per Diem Nursing Is in High Demand?
Healthcare facilities rely heavily on per diem nurses to fill gaps in their schedules. Staff shortages, fluctuating patient needs, and seasonal spikes in demand mean there's always a need for flexible, skilled nurses. Facilities value per diem nurses for their ability to adapt quickly and ensure smooth operations during staffing shortages or emergencies.
But here's the catch—many per diem nurses compete for the same shifts. This is where positioning yourself as an asset can make all the difference.
Strategies to Secure More Per Diem Nurse Jobs
1. Build Strong Relationships with Staffing Managers
Healthcare facilities are far more likely to offer opportunities to nurses they know and trust. Building relationships with staffing managers and schedulers is key.
- Communicate Clearly: Always respond to shift inquiries promptly and professionally, leaving a positive impression.
- Be Reliable: When you accept a shift, show up on time and ready to work. Your consistent reliability will earn you a reputation as someone they can count on.
The better your relationship with schedulers, the more likely they are to contact you first when shifts become available.
2. Stay Flexible
Flexibility is one of the most valuable traits for a per diem nurse. Healthcare facilities often need coverage for weekends, holidays, night shifts, or last-minute vacancies.
Being open to working these less-desirable shifts can set you apart from others and increase your chances of securing work. While it may mean sacrifices sometimes, it also makes you the go-to nurse for urgent needs.
3. Keep Your Skills Up-to-Date
Facilities value per diem nurses who can hit the ground running. The more skills and certifications you have, the more versatile and valuable you become.
Consider adding certifications such as:
- Basic Life Support (BLS)
- Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)
- Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)
Facilities often prioritize nurses with specialized skills, so expanding your expertise—whether in ICU, telemetry, or pediatrics—can open doors to more shifts.
4. Use Technology to Your Advantage
Leverage apps and online job platforms to find shifts at your convenience. Many staffing agencies and hospitals use technology to connect with per diem nurses, making it easier than ever to pick up extra work.
Some helpful apps and platforms include:
These tools allow you to view and accept shifts in real-time, ensuring you don't miss out on last-minute opportunities.
5. Maintain a Positive Reputation
Remember, word travels fast in the healthcare world. Facilities are more likely to rebook nurses who maintain a professional and cooperative attitude.
- Stay Professional: Even under high-pressure conditions, remain calm and cooperative.
- Be a Team Player: Nursing is collaborative, so showing respect and support to your colleagues will make a lasting impression.
Building a reputation as a dependable, skilled, and positive nurse will lead to recurring opportunities—because facilities truly value those who help make their jobs easier.
6. Proactively Communicate Your Availability
Don't just wait for shifts to find you—be proactive! Regularly update your agencies and staffing managers about your availability.
- Submit your schedule early for better placement.
- Mention your eagerness to fill extra shifts.
Facilities appreciate proactive nurses, as it saves them time scrambling to fill emergencies and gaps.
7. Focus on Your Specialty Niche
Instead of being a generalist, explore opportunities to excel in a specific area of nursing. Many facilities look for per diem nurses with specialized expertise.
For example, if you're experienced in critical care or labor and delivery, emphasize this when applying for shifts. Being excellent in a niche field can make you more sought-after.
8. Join Social Media and Nursing Communities
Networking can lead to unexpected opportunities. Online groups and professional communities often share job postings, tips, and advice. Connect with other nurses who may have leads on per diem nurse jobs in your area.
Popular platforms for nurses include Facebook groups, LinkedIn, and professional forums like AllNurses.com.
The Advantages of Securing More Shifts as a Per Diem Nurse
Picking up extra nurse shifts does more than just add to your paycheck—it provides flexibility to advance your career and grow as a professional.
- Skill Growth: Working in different departments or facilities exposes you to diverse experiences that enhance your nursing knowledge.
- Career Exploration: Per diem nursing environments allow you to try out various specialties or work settings before committing to permanent roles.
- Higher Income: The more shifts you work, the greater your earning potential. Some nurses use this to save for vacations, pay off student loans, or pursue advanced education.
By following the steps above, you can strike a balance between enjoying the freedom of per diem nursing while maintaining steady income and opportunities.
Take Control of Your Per Diem Nursing Career
Securing more shifts as a per diem nurse doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right strategies—like cultivating relationships, expanding your availability, and sharpening your skills—you can keep your schedule as full as you want it to be.
Remember, the more proactive and professional you are, the easier it will become to make yourself an indispensable resource for staffing agencies and healthcare facilities alike.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your per diem nursing career, explore reputable staffing platforms and agencies today. Build partnerships, refine your skills, and watch the opportunities roll in!
