How to Find the Best Travel PT Recruiters

After several years as a travel physical therapist, I’ve learned the important lesson that your recruiter often matters more than the travel company itself. While benefits are important and can vary between companies, a great recruiter can make the difference between landing your dream assignment and wasting your time during a job search.

I’ve worked with countless recruiters over the years, and not all of them are created equal. The best ones are detail-oriented, quick to respond, reliable, and experienced in travel therapy. They understand how fast the industry moves and can help guide you through the process with confidence. They will also be open to negotiation if the budget allows. A bad recruiter, on the other hand, can leave you feeling lost, confused, and frustrated.

Some of the most knowledgeable recruiters are those who were previously in travel healthcare themselves or those who have many years of experience. They truly understand the challenges and nuances of the travel lifestyle, though these recruiters can be harder to find. Their firsthand experience can be invaluable when it comes to finding contracts, understanding location logistics, and helping you navigate unexpected issues on assignments.

So how do you find a good recruiter? The best way I have found is through recommendations from current travel physical therapists. Ask around and learn who others have had positive experiences with. And remember, it’s okay to “fire” a recruiter if they aren’t working out because you will have hundreds to choose from. Even if you like that specific travel company, you can request a different recruiter.

Red flags vs. green flags in recruiters
When evaluating a recruiter, pay attention to how they communicate and manage the process:

• Red flags: slow or inconsistent responses, vague answers about contracts or benefits, lack of understanding of travel PT logistics, or seeming uninterested in your preferences (sending you random jobs in locations you told them you were not interested in from the start).

• Green flags: proactive communication, detailed explanations of pay package and benefits, willingness to answer questions thoroughly, and responsiveness to any concerns. A recruiter who takes the time to understand your preferences and goals (and remember them) is usually one who will advocate for you the most effectively.

When you first start talking with a recruiter, treat it like an interview. Ask questions about their experience, the disciplines they mostly work with, and how they handle different travel therapy challenges. It’s also smart to develop relationships with multiple recruiters. This allows you to compare offers and find the best job situation for you. I recommend being in communication with 2-3 recruiters during your job search even if you are an experienced traveler who is used to one company.

Communication is key, even when things don’t work out. If you decide to take a job with another recruiter, be sure to let the other recruiter(s) know professionally. Thank them for their time and effort. Maintaining that positive relationship can be valuable later, as you never know when you might want to work with them in the future. Burning bridges is easy to do, but keeping connections strong is a good move in a small industry like travel PT.

Ultimately, a good recruiter is someone who works hard for you, communicates clearly, and understands the fast-paced nature of travel physical therapy. Finding the right fit takes some effort, but the payoff will be worth it for better jobs, smoother contracts, and a more enjoyable travel experience!

If you’re looking for reputable recruiters to connect with, I’ve compiled a list of trusted options here: Travel Physical Therapy Recruiters.