PRN staffing agencies were the gatekeepers of the per diem world until 2016, when ShiftKey was founded. ShiftKey is not an agency. We’re a technology platform that hundreds of thousands of independent professionals use to connect with facilities directly.
Whether you're just starting to work PRN or have been using staffing agencies for years, here are nine reasons why you might want to trade your PRN staffing agency for the ShiftKey app.
You set your schedule
Some agencies require you to work a minimum number of hours each week. And even if that’s not an official policy, your staffing agent’s expectations might sway their assignment decisions, which can lead to fewer hours for you.
When you pick up shifts on the ShiftKey app, there's no middleman — you work as little or as much as you want.
You see available shifts in real time
Sick of waiting for staffing agencies to update you about available shifts? Or getting tagged to work at the last minute, then needing to rearrange your schedule to accommodate the shift?
With the ShiftKey app, you get real-time updates, which means you can be proactive about your schedule. Some of the most successful independent professionals are booked out weeks in advance!
You work where you want
Working with a staffing agency can mean limited control over where you work. But when you use ShiftKey, you're in charge. Bid on PRN shifts at facilities that work best for you.
You enjoy improved work-life balance
With the ability to choose your shifts, you have more control over your schedule, allowing you to make time for personal and family commitments. A PRN staffing agency won’t always offer the same level of flexibility, making it harder for you to strike the right balance between your work and personal life. When you have more work-life balance, you can beat nurse burnout — which can lead to a host of physical and mental health issues.
You don't have to be on call
When you work for a PRN staffing agency, you’re at the whim of your staffing agent. Maybe they'll call you and expect you to pick up shifts at the last minute. Or worse, maybe they won’t call at all!
When you use the ShiftKey app, you work on your terms, and you can avoid all those annoying calls. Just open the app, browse available shifts and bid on the ones you want.
You don't sign any contracts
Staffing agencies often ask you to sign a contract, locking you into their services for a set period. This can be a major drawback if you want to explore other opportunities.
When you use the ShiftKey app, you’re an independent professional. There are no contracts holding you back, and you're free to work as much or as little as you want — with the flexibility to change your mind anytime.
You can also pick up shifts on the ShiftKey app around other obligations — even to supplement your income around a full- or part-time job. And if you’re open to a full-time job, working PRN shifts is a great way to find a facility that you want to work for.
You can create your own network
When you work with PRN staffing agencies, you usually get exposure to the same few facilities, stifling your networking potential.
Picking up shifts on ShiftKey can open up a world of networking opportunities. You'll have the chance to work at various facilities, meet new colleagues and build relationships within the healthcare community. This can lead to potential job offers and collaborations down the road.
You can get to work right away
Well, almost. The healthcare industry has requirements, so whether you pick up PRN shifts through an agency or the ShiftKey app, you'll need to submit proof of licensure, among other things (every state has different requirements, and some facilities require additional documentation).
But some PRN staffing agencies also require specific training programs that can be time-consuming and redundant, especially if you're already an experienced professional. When you choose ShiftKey, you go at your own pace. And you can complete the first part of the signup process in about 10 to 15 minutes.
You get paid on your terms
Staffing agencies pay you like any other employer, which means you get paid either weekly or bi-weekly. Your hourly rate is set, although sometimes you might get paid premium rates.
With ShiftKey, you can get your payments right after your shift! You can also choose your rate.
Ready to book PRN shifts on your terms? Get started on the ShiftKey app today!
Work should be as enjoyable as it is rewarding. Once your credentials have been verified, you'll have access to thousands of healthcare communities nationwide. And you'll easily be able to browse, bid on and book multiple PRN shifts — on your terms.
