A Guide to Slay Your First Day as a Rad Tech

Considering this is my sixth travel tech contract, I would consider myself a pro when it comes to first days (not to mention my staff jobs before travel). Although first days can definitely seem nerve-wracking and daunting, they definitely get easier the more first days you have! Like anything - practice makes perfect! Making friends gets easier. Being an awesome traveler gets easier. 

Here are some tips for slaying your first day as a Traveler (from a rad tech):

• Be yourself - This is a HUGE one in my opinion. Being yourself is going to take you really far. I'm sure you're already an amazing person and an amazing healthcare employee so show all these new people what a great asset you can be! 
• Be open - This is the second most important thing when traveling. You have to be open. You have to be adaptable. You have to be accepting. You have to be willing to be molded. You have to be willing to change from what you "know" or "used to do at your other hospital". The other techs you will be working with don't really care how you did it at your old hospital. What they care about is that you are adaptable to their rules and protocols and that you are able to do exams how THIS hospital does them. Let go of the past! Embrace the present. 
• Be passive - This is a huge one. As someone who is already very passive, I can say that this has taken me very far in my travel tech career. Being someone who knows their sh*t but also is able to take advice/training from the staff techs with grace is something I strive in. Something you should stive for.  Remind yourself you are here to do a service, not take over the department. 
• Let things go - This has been a big one for me that I am constantly working on. When you are a traveler you are coming into hospitals/clinics that NEED staff. Which could be because of various reasons but usually it is because the department needs a face lift. Because of that you may find yourself wanting to make a bunch of changes and think to yourself "there is a better way to do this." You have to remind yourself that you are here to work and help out the department, not completely change it. In fact, as one person, you can't change an entire failing department in 13 weeks. So remind yourself its ok to let things go. It's ok to do things your way if it benefits the patient care but don't compromise your sanity. I have so much to say about this topic so if you'd like me to unpack this more let me know. 
• Be nice!!!! - Be freaking NICE! No one wants to work with someone who is mean or annoying. Be nice. Help your coworkers. Get up and help with the patient. Enough said. 

• Stay Positive and Flexible - Starting a new job can be overwhelming, but try to stay positive and flexible. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, stay open to feedback, and be willing to adapt to new situations. Remember, a positive attitude can go a long way in making a great impression.
  
  So there you have it, some tips to help you be a stellar new employee. Remember, it's normal to feel a little nervous or unsure when starting a new job, but with the right attitude and approach, you'll be rocking your new role in no time. Good luck!