Make Friends as a Per Diem Nurse

Per diem nursing — “per diem” meaning “per-day” in Latin — relates to professional nurses who work on an as-needed basis for all types of healthcare facilities. Due to the nature of per diem work, nurses are often scheduled for last-minute shifts and are expected to jump right into a demanding and sometimes challenging role. At the same time, per diem nursing allows for flexibility of schedule, which can lead to more time off, and the added benefit of earning higher pay. The latter is because on average nurses who work per diem shifts earn a higher per diem hourly wage than full-time nurses do. On top of competitive pay and scheduling flexibility, per diem nursing offers you the ability to choose where you want to work. As a result, per diem nursing often involves moving from one healthcare setting to another. So, whether you are already working as a per diem nurse or just thinking about it, you are now familiar with all the incredible benefits related to nursing gig work. On the flip side, since per diem nursing can mean taking on assignments in different healthcare facilities, switching up your work environment as a per diem nurse can prove to be challenging when it comes to making new friends.

Thankfully, there are plenty of ways and resources a per diem nurse can take advantage of to help find and make new friends. Read on for a few tips on how to put yourself out there and form some lasting relationships while on assignment as a per diem nurse.

Introduce Yourself & Say Hello!

Okay, so while introducing yourself when first stepping on the floor as a per diem nurse may seem obvious, speaking up, especially if you are an introvert, can feel awkward. In general, however, showing confidence and making a good first impression on your colleagues and director of nursing (DON) will show that you are a great candidate for the job. This may mean showing up a bit early to your shift, introducing yourself to your manager, and making small talk with your peers. And yes, small talk does have its place in work settings; in fact, it can be a perfect ice breaker when starting a new job.

In addition to introducing yourself, making eye contact and making sure to flash an authentic smile here and there can demonstrate that you are friendly and approachable. When it comes to making a great first impression, a little bit goes a long way, so be sure to say hello and be open to sharing a few casual conversations.

Make Friends as a Per Diem Nurse: Be Proactive

Being the new nurse on the block can be challenging. This is especially true when responding to a last-minute shift that requires working with a tight-knit full-time nursing team. Out of respect, you should be extra sensitive to the already established dynamic that exists between your nursing colleagues. To break the ice with nurses on your floor, you can ask questions and then take initiative. This might mean quickly becoming familiar with your unit’s protocols and procedures and then following through without the need for supervision. It can also mean tidying up at the end of the day for a colleague, or asking them what else you can help with. Additionally, at the end of your shift, you can ask for feedback from both your coworkers and your DON. Constructive feedback can give you guidance on how to handle your next per diem shift and continue to be as proactive as possible.

Say Yes to Social Events

Whether it’s your first day on the job as a per diem nurse, or whether you have been working with the same healthcare facility for a while now, saying “yes” to any social invitation that arises can help you break into the social scene outside of work. This could include saying “yes” to a coworker who invites you to a coffee date, a hike, or a yoga class. It could also mean asking the nurses on your floor about their hobbies and interests and then taking initiative and asking them to meet up outside of work. In either case, putting yourself out there will help you make friends; in fact, here at Nursa, we have seen loads of PRN clinicians who have met and become life-long friends while picking up per diem shifts. So, go ahead and say yes to social plans; who knows, you may even make a true best friend that you bond with for life!

Social Networking as a Per Diem Nurse

In this day and age, almost everything has gone virtual. And while taking your dog to the park, or enjoying a few cocktails with colleagues is a great way to meet new friends, let’s not disregard the power of social networking. With that in mind, if you are a per diem nurse looking for an online community, you could check out local Facebook groups, or join comment-driven online forums such as Reddit to share and discuss anything related to nursing. Additionally, you can check out our community board and join the conversation at Nursa to connect with like-minded per diem nurses working in your area right now! Ultimately, staying connected, whether that be online or in person, is a great way to foster new relationships while working as a per diem nurse.

You’ve Got a Friend in Me

As it turns out, making and maintaining friendships can have a positive impact on your health. In fact, research shows that having strong social relationships may actually extend your lifespan. So if you are looking for a motivating reason to put yourself out there time and again, there you have it: Friends are a life-force energy. Besides that, having friends around while working a high-pressure job like nursing is always a good idea. You never know when you’ll need a shoulder to lean on, or when someone might need yours. So, get out there, and say hey.

What are some strategies you have used to make friends while working as a per diem nurse? We want to know! Feel free to join the conversation.