Understanding Your Job Offer

Good morning, everybody. It's time for our weekly show onwards and upwards. Everything a global health care worker needs to know about living and working in the United States. I am your host and Danielle Chasin, the director of Special projects Director here at Connetics, part of the AMN healthcare family and so excited to be here with you this morning. Today we are having a very special show, it's going to be very interesting for all of you nurses watching from all over the world. Thinking is now a good time to apply. How does the process work? What do I need to look out for? We're going to be discussing all of that today in our special show on learning how to understand your job offer. So stay tuned. Please let me know where you are watching from in the chat I love our audience is watching from and please feel free to use the chat as a way to ask your questions. We have some very interesting guests here today. And we want to make sure that we are getting answers to all of your questions. If you feel inspired and you think you know, today might be the right time. Our recruiters are on hand. They are waiting to review your applications. You could apply on our websites ConneticsUSA.com/apply, and we are excited to help you. So let's see who do we have we have toyon saying hello everyone. Khiva saying hi Mustafa saying hi. We have a lot of nurses from all over watching. So hello to everybody. Without further ado, let's bring our guests Good morning, everybody. Good morning. Good morning. Good. Let's go around in the circle. And please give us some information about yourself and what you are doing on our show today. What expertise you're gonna give us. So let's start with nurse Bryan. 

Hi, good morning, everyone. My name is Bryan. I am a registered nurse here working at Central Region in Texas. So today we're going to share our experience regarding how we did the process and applying through an agency and how we get here and the US. Thank you, Bryan. Wonderful. Well, we're excited to hear your story and all of your advice that you have for nurses. Let's go next with Meg Meyers. Hi, everyone. Welcome.

I'm Meg Meyers. I am a regional client sales manager with Connetics USA, part of the AMN family. I have been with Connetics for over seven years, but doing international recruitment for more than 20. So happy to have you all here. It's a great topic. I work with nurses getting offers. So we have a lot of questions and we hope to provide a lot of answers. Thank you, Meg. Meg has been doing this for a long time. So she has seen a lot of things and she has a lot of expertise to share with us today. Let's go with Gillian next. Hello, and welcome. Thank you so much for having us on Danielle. So

I'm Gillian Williams, Senior Director for Clinical Operations here at AMN. And I primarily support our international O’Grady Peyton. I'm sure everyone is hearing my accent. So I am here to just provide information from that perspective also, because I've been through the same process applying and coming to the US and also from the perspective of someone working behind the scenes to help our nurses come to the US and to do well. Thank you very unique perspective on through the whole process moving to the US and now it's come full circle and you're actually working. 

So we're very excited to hear all about that. And last but certainly not least, Deirdre. Hi, good morning everyone. Thank you for having me on again. love being part of these shows.

My name is Deirdre O'Regan, I am the Senior Director of Recruitment at O'Grady Peyton International. I've been with the AMN family for over 16 years and similar to Gillian you can probably tell from my accent I am originally from Ireland. So excited for the perspective that Gillian and I can give today from a clinical standpoint as well as an immigration standpoint so excited to share some information with you all today. Thank you Deirdre. So as you can hear a many of our experts I mean, four out of the five of us are actually immigrants while we have gone through this entire process nurse Bryan is a newly arrived immigrants so he has recently gone through the process. So we have a lot of good insight that we're going to share with everybody today. Before we jump right in and start talking about understanding job offer, understanding the recruitment process, interview tips, all of that good stuff. We're going to very briefly just go over a little bit about direct hire, which you have with Connetics, and a little bit of staffing, which you have through O'Grady hates it. Luckily, for all of you, we are all under one umbrella, we are all under AMSN. So you have got both options. And if you're unsure which option is going to work best for you, we will help you figure it out. So we have this amazing graphic, which shows all of the opportunities that we have across the US. With O'Grady and Connetics, you have opportunities in every one of the 50 states. So wherever you might want to go, we've got you covered.  

So you can see that nifty little graphic, and you can find that on both of our websites, opportunities in every state. So, Mike, can you give us a little bit of a brief overview on direct hire for any of our nurses who might be watching and just want to know, what does that look like? What does that path look like? Yeah, yeah. So at Connetics, we do try to kind of make that an easier process. So you would be hiring, and I'm sorry, you would be applying to Connetics, you would be working through the process with our team, we're going to help you through the whole process. We're going to help you with your application, we're going to help you figure out where it is you want to go. What do we have to offer? We're going to help you with the process of interviewing, getting those offers, accepting those offers, and then working through the whole process, which is the immigration process, licensing, credentialing, and then of course, arrival into America. So you know, we've got a great and we'll be able to, you know, just get us from point A to point B, your home country to the United States as quickly as possible. Okay, wonderful. Meg. Thank you. That was great. So to sum it up, oh, with direct hire, the employer is going to be your sponsor. So that's going to be one of the key differences between working with an agency and working with the direct hire company. We also have a very handy little success path graphic on both the direct hire and the O'Grady side. So this is the Connetics success path. If you are ever wondering where you are in the process, you can go back and look at the success path. You can find it on our website. We are going to be talking about step two today, which is preparing for the interview. But you can always go back and refer to that success half and takes you through a step by step process on how to come to America near direct.  

Can you give us a very brief overview on the O'Grady staffing process. What does that go lately? Happy to. So thanks for the for the graphic. So just to tag on to what Danielle had mentioned in the key difference with direct hire and staffing with O'Grady. Already Peyton is your is the sponsor of your immigrant visa. And we also process all of your credentialing your immigration paperwork with our in house team of experts. We have been doing this for 30 years, so have a lot of experience in making sure that your journey is as smooth as possible. We know that it can be intimidating going through the immigration process. So we want to make it as seamless as possible. You do your commitment and with O'Grady Peyton International is just two years, it is at one facility and two years is the shortest duration in the industry. So that is a win. And most of our nurses choose to stay at the location that they are placed in because we really take a lot of time in ensuring that where you choose to be is where you want to be long term and is a good fit for you professionally and also if you're bringing your family members with you. What's also key to note here is that when we showed that graphic of where we have opportunities across the United States, both recruitment teams on the Grady Peyton international side and on the Connetics side, work very closely together in ensuring that you have all the opportunities that they are all presented to you and whatever is going to work for your professional career and your family commitments is where we want to place you so thank you so much Danielle. Thank you Deirdre that is very well said so wherever you want to go we got you the am and family. 

Got you OGP Connetics, we are both here for you. And if you want to learn a little bit more on staffing and direct hire, you can look back at one of our past shows, we do a full hour and a half a real deep dive. So you can go back and learn all of the key similarities, the key differences, all of that good stuff. But today, we are talking about understanding your job offer understanding the recruitment process, the interview process. So let's get started on that. I'm Nurse Bryan and nurse Gillian, we want to hear about your journeys. You've both been through the whole process, the recruitment, the interview, the immigration, and you're both now here finally in the United States, and we'd love to hear a little bit about that process a little bit about your motivation for coming to the US. I'm going to turn to you first, Bryan, can you give us a little bit of insight into that? Yeah, I started my process and my application in the US during the pandemic time, and it went so smooth. Last 2021 of November, I took my NCLEX and I pass it and at the same time I applied through direct kind of like Connetics was just online. So in just a matter of days, we got a reply. When we submitted the other requirements to Connetics, they got a reply from them, regarding the credentials, then they have offered me options, to what possible employers I would have an interview, then after I decided which place or which hospital or employer to have an interview, I have given, I've been given a schedule. After I had a schedule, and I did the interview, I was given the notice that I was accepted by the employer, then it started the whole process it we gathered the necessary documents like your NCLEX RN Exam results, your credentials, your school credentials, your English exam, results, and we proceed with the immigration process. It just took for me less than a year to be here in the United States with guidance of Connetics. And so all in all, the process for me it's like smooth, it's just a matter of time. It varies and how fast would be the process. But in my case, it's less than a year to be here in the US. 

Wow, Bryan, that's pretty amazing. I'm sure a lot of our nurses are watching and thinking, wow, that could be me. That is pretty amazing. What motivated you to come to the US? Well, the one that gave me a motivation in going to the US is that the opportunity that we have here compared to other parts of the world, nurses are being paid well, nurses are given big attention and importance. And as well as we have the opportunity to be US citizens and to be with our family. In my case, I went to the US ahead of my family, they just followed me and they arrived last month. And there's also a chance like for example, if you want to go to the US together with your family members, that would be okay, too. So there will be a lot of opportunities here in the US. Wow. Well, congratulations to you that your family arrived last month. I'm sure that was so exciting for you. I know it's a long process with my family. My dad also came to the US about six months before my mom, my sister and I and that reunion was a very sweet moment. So congratulations, Bryan. I'm sure that is extremely exciting. Gillian, can you share what was your motivation to come to the US? Oh my goodness. So my motivation really stemmed around my career, because I'm from Trinidad, originally Trinidad and Tobago in the southern Caribbean. And if any one of you remember your geography Trinidad is a really tiny island. Our population is around 1.6 million people. So as you can imagine working in a hospital in an island, small population, there really is not much opportunity for advancement, much opportunity for developing your career. So that was my main motivation really just go somewhere that they. There are way more opportunities to grow to study to advance my career. So that was my main motivation. 

Got it. Thank you for sharing. Gillian. I know I speak to a lot of nurses, Deirdre speaks to a lot of nurses next week. So a lot of nurses, Gillian speaks to a lot of nurses. And I hear from all of our nurses, they all want that opportunity, that American dream, the opportunity to have a better life for their family, as Bryan said, to be valued as a nurse. So a lot of motivations. That sounds very similar from a lot of our nurses. Thank you for sharing, Gillian. Bryan, what was your experience like with applying through Connetics? Did you apply to multiple companies, what ultimately made you decide to go through Connetics? Well, I applied Connetics, my online, and it was, like research online with my other friends. And we found about Connetics, and with it, after the exam, we said, okay, let's give it a shot, let's apply. And when we apply through Connetics, it was just online. And it was during pandemic time. But they were so really quick and responding and entertaining us applicants. So when we applied, we just send an email, and then they reach out on us to give us a call, and whatever time that we are available. And then after that we were given the schedule to discuss the matters regarding the application. And that's it. It's all online, then the process started. And when it comes to applications to other companies. My first publication was with Connetics after I passed the NCLEX. Then there were other companies who tried to reach out on me, and they gave offers, but I decided, and I have chosen to be with Connetics, because they have a better offer. 

And we are so glad that you chose us. And we're so glad that we helped you. And you're now here, so very full circle. Meg, I know a lot of our nurses are wondering, are there any basic requirements that they need to do before applying to work in the US? Oh, desire, obviously, first, that desire to come, right. So that would be really the first thing. But you have to do your NCLEX exam, which is the Nursing exam in the United States, you have to have an English exam. For most countries, there are some that are exempt, but that you can find out about, you know, as you process through the program, but you also have to have a visa screen certificate. So those are really the key items that you'll be obtaining too good to get further in the process. And with your basic requirements, I would say you know, really be open. We strive to find the best place for you. So really working with your recruiters and giving them the information you want to make your dreams. Okay, great. Thank you, Meg. And are there any requirements in terms of locations or specialties? Or how does that work? Yeah, so for the direct hire. You know, we have to remember, we're coming to the United States, because we do have a shortage of nurses here. So not all hospitals have all specialties available. So that could vary by location, you would find your location, your specialty in locations that are offering that opening. And that's, you know, maybe how you would determine your ultimate arrival location, but all of the different facilities would have different qualifications that they are looking for different specialties open, and you would just have to see by facility what is offered because they are different. 

Okay, got it. Thank you, Meg. So sounds like for anybody watching, your first step is just going to be to take that NCLEX and that's what you really need to apply. And I'm not going to get too much into it today, because we have a special show next week on retrogression, but my big takeaway that we are going to talk about next week is we can file you. So if you have taken your NCLEX please apply. There is a delay which we will discuss next week, but we can file you so apply again that website is ConneticsUSA.com/apply. If you are interested in applying to O'Grady for staffing, AMNhealthcare.com/International. You can find information on Both companies there. So Deirdre, can you give us some tips that nurses should consider when applying to a nursing agency? Of course we have Connetics and we have O'Grady, both excellent choices. How should they be deciding if they want to come with us or another company? absolutely happy to share. So the first thing that you look at is the experience of it's very important decision the partner you choose to help you in your journey coming to the US. So certainly look at the experience of that organization. Collectively Connetics, and O'Grady Peyton have over 40 years experience in this industry and are experts at what we do and can guide you every step of the way. You know, ask questions, if you have a question, the chances are most international nurses have that question. So don't be afraid to ask questions, make sure that you get them answered by your recruiter, your career consultant.  

Check online for reviews. Before applying, you want to be sure that the partner that you choose is reputable, that they've got good that they've got good reviews from nurses that have been through the process. Nurse Bryan is a perfect example of that today, as well as nurse Gillian, of course. And you know, you also want to make sure that the partner that you choose is a legitimate partner, right? So are they associated with dem W, for example, in in the Philippines, being a member of the alliance for ethical recruitment and add here is going to be important as well, because that indicates that your best interests are our best interest as well. So you'll find the associations on our website, that we are confirmed as members of these organizations, which is which is very, very important. A reputable agent agency will provide you with a checklist of all the documents that you will need. So as you submit your application that will be provided to you very, very timely, because we want to file your petition immediately. But there are certain documents that we need in order to do that. So start working on them, get them submitted to us so that we can get you filed, ASAP. Very important. Daniel mentioned that we're going to be talking about it next week, but get your place in line today. That's what I would encourage you to do. Wherever your motivation is either direct hire or staffing. We have an opportunity for you. So I would encourage everybody who has not applied yet to do so today and let our team of experts assist you. 

Thank you do dress so I see we have a lot of questions in the chat. There was a question from Chia victory. How long does it take for PWD to be determined before your contract is issued to you? So if you heard one of the tips that Deirdre said, Ask if your employer has already completed prevailing wage. With both the direct hire and staffing AMSN, you will can rest assured prevailing wage has already been completed, O'Grady has their prevailing wage, with Connetics, all of our employers will already have their prevailing wage. So when you're interviewing, you know with us, you will be able to have immediate filing. So you can tick that one off your worry less. So Deirdre, can you give us an overview of what happens after a nurse submits an application? What's the process like? Absolutely, absolutely be happy to do so. So it's actually a very quick process. So once you submit your application, and I do see a couple of comments in that I submitted my application a week ago or whatever and I haven't heard yet, as you can probably understand there is a lot of applications and coming to the US. So just bear with us, we absolutely will get to you. But if you if an extended period of time has passed, please make sure that you're reaching out to us in order to make sure that that you are contacted. So once you submit your application or a team of recruiters review that so we want to look at your experience where you want to be right so if you're very location specific, you've got family in Texas for example, we take a look at that and want to make sure that we're making the right match. At O'Grady Peyton we actually work very closely with Gillian's team in identifying the perfect place for you based on your experience and what you want to achieve in your career. So once we review that, our recruiters will call you and it's not an interview. It's just a very it's a conversation talking about your skill set talking about your experience where you want to be.  

And then we get you in front of a client pretty quickly. I think that's one of the misconceptions in accepting a staffing commitment is that well, how do I know where I'm going to go, you know where you're going to go. And we want you to know that before you accept any, any commitment. And so if you've got your all your documents in place, which the recruiter will, will guide you on that process, we can have you interviewing with the client very, very, very quickly. We've also had hiring events that we do pretty routinely with, with hiring clients, as well as OGP events, where you have the opportunity to look at the many, many job opportunities that we have across the United States. So get your application and our recruitment team is ready and waiting to speak to you. And we will get you in front of in front of some of our clients very, very, very quickly. Okay, thank you do dress. So that's a good overview on what happens after you apply. I think a lot of our nurses are probably wondering, how does what does the interview process look like? How do the recruitment events work? Can you talk a little bit about that? I absolutely can. So as I said, we've got two kind of different events we've got, we've got events with our with our clients, where you will be interviewing, in not in person virtually with hiring leaders at various locations. So we set those events up probably about a week or so in advance, and you will be scheduled a time slot where you will be interviewing with a hiring leader, the interview is probably 20 to 30 minutes focused solely on your clinical experience, so that they can make sure that they're that you have the right match and that they're placing you in the correct unit, for example, our OGP events are really structured around where you want to be. And so as you said, when we looked at the graphic of all of the opportunities that are available across the United States, we want you to know what opportunities are available.  

And we talked to you about where you want to be that that process is probably about 20 to 30 minutes as well. But you will be speaking with an O'Grady Peyton recruiter, and they will be talking to you about the many opportunities that you qualify for. So this is a great opportunity to a get in front of hiring leaders very, very quickly get your questions answered very, very quickly. And also get in front of our team of recruitment experts based on what is important to you, then they will guide you in the right direction. So we do hold these events quite regularly. So if you are interested in attending any of our upcoming events, go on our Facebook page, we advertise there and sign up with the link that's available there as well. And we'll make sure that you get one of those interview spots. Okay, thank you Deirdre. That was a very useful overview of what the process looks like what the interview process looks like. I see we have quite a few comments in the chats with questions. So I want to make sure we get to some of those. I see Raya says Do you accept no experience? So good news for you Raya on both the staffing and the direct hire side, we can accept nurses without experience. So we have certain employers who have that kind of role available, so you can apply on our website and find out what opportunities are available to you. We also have a question from Jennifer Do you sponsor NCLEX So currently, the Connetics scholarship is full, but the O'Grady scholarship is available. So if you check out the O'Grady website, you can find out information all about their scholarship process. They do have an NCLEX scholarship. So that is good news for you Jennifer. 

Okay, so, Bryan, I want to turn to you, what was the recruitment and interview process like for you Did anything surprise you during that process? During the process, initially, we just apply online through the Connetics website. Then after that, we have been given a call and the set up a date or time that we will discuss like what have said earlier regarding the skill set regarding your experience regarding the unit, where you are working or where you want to be working. And also we have some considerations regarding the locations and what type of hospital have you been working? And the process is like, really step by step and it is really organized and the Connetics people or the Connetics team will always assist you in each step. And after each step, they will tell you what will be the next one? What are you going to prepare? What are the requirements, so it will not be like very difficult for you to prepare for the next step of the process. Okay, thank you, Bryan. I see we actually have a question from Erica Sampson. She says, How long did they Connetics contact you after the initial interview? Was it was a fairly quick or how was that process for you, Bryan? 

Oh, it's just a matter of days. After I submitted my application online, that I'm interested that I have the qualification. The basic one is the NCLEX that we are asking for, it's just a matter of days. Then, once they call you are regarding the discussion regarding your skill set, regarding your experience regarding your target of workplace. It's up to you whether you want to on the next day or the next few days, the Connetics, then people will be available. So it's just a matter of days. Then after that they will schedule you regarding your interview for the employer or possible employers that they have in hand. It's just a matter of days. But when it comes to the interview, it depends on the schedule set by the possible employers. Okay, thank you, Bryan. That's great news that you had such a fast processing such a fast response time. And now here you are in the United States living your American dream. I see there are a couple of comments asking about Connetics reaching out. Please know that our recruiters are making their way through all of your applications. We have 1000s of open jobs between O'Grady and Connetics. So don't worry if it takes a couple of days, they will get to you we have plenty of open positions for everybody. So don't worry about that. I want to turn to nurse Gillian, was there anything that was surprising to you during the interview and recruitment process? Was there anything that you shared with your recruiters as being important to you? What can you tell us about that? 

So the process I had, it was actually rather smooth. I think the only thing that had surprised me when I completed my application was the sheer length of the applications. So it was pretty long. Now that I'm on this side of the fence, helping the nurses come through. Now I understand why, at the time, the application was long, because they the company needed information to support the whole immigration process information about myself and my family. So that was really the only thing that surprised me. But now I understand why. Apart from that, just like Bryan, my process really went rather smoothly. It took me just about a year to get here. And I can actually originally applied with another company not already pizza, and it was a company called news finders back in the day, and there was an issue with the immigration petition and fell through. And then I decided to go and do the NCLEX exam on my own. So did that. And then I applied with O'Grady Peyton, and back then already Peyton had actually they came to Trinidad on a recruitment trip. And the recruiter was fabulous. He gave us so much information. And after talking it over with my family, we decided or I decided to go ahead and apply. And it was really a very smooth process. And like I said, we got here in about a year. I came first I came the week before to help to get the apartment set up and all of that and then my family came the week after so it was really a very smooth process for me. That's great. To hear how easy and smooth process for you. I know it was a little bit ago. You've been in the US for a number of years now. appreciate you sharing your insights. You remember if there was anything that you said to your recruiter as being effective ordinands How did they help you figure out? Where was the right placement for you?  

You know, I think, in hindsight, I actually should have been clearer with my recruiter as to what my preferences were. Because when I was just open at the time,  and when I had my interview, I actually had two interviews. One was with the hospital up in the Northeast. And I remember I was I was about eight months pregnant, I had a five year old. And when I was talking to that manager, it was really a very comfortable interview when we started talking about the weather and the snow. And I just remember thinking, Oh, my goodness, I will be coming with a really young baby and a small child. And I thought, gosh, you know, I really should have thought about the climate part of it and discuss that with my recruiter, and I had not. So I ended up getting a job offer. But when I thought about the struggles in the weather, I had actually declined that offer. And I asked my team at already paid. And if they can, please look for a different opportunity for me. And they did. Very quickly, I got another interview opportunity in Arizona, which if you know about the climate, across the states, in the US, it is the opposite of the Northeast, it was very hot. So that actually suited me perfectly coming from the Caribbean. So I had a really quick interview with a hospital in Arizona, got that job offer, and I accepted that offer. So just really being clear with your recruiter off after you've done your research about what specifically you're looking for, what kind of environment for yourself and your family, that is a really wise thing to do. I was very fortunate that I got another opportunity really quickly after the first one. But I advise everyone to really think about where you want to be. And be very, very clear with your recruiter about it. 

That is some there. I think when you're going through this process, to be taking stock of where you can imagine yourself, it's good to be open. But you are moving your family to another country. And you really got to think about you know where you might want to go where it's going to work for you Gillian mentioned, she had two young kids, he's very brave for coming to the US probably came when you had your baby, but going through the process with an eight month old and a five year old. So it's good to make sure that you are asking all your questions, sharing all of what's important to you. At O'Grady, AMN Connetics, we consider ourselves your career matchmaker. So we really want to make sure that we're finding a good match for you want to make sure you're happy and satisfied. Bryan, can you share your reporting to you during the process that you shared with your recruiters and how you ended up where you are? Yeah, during the interview, my recruiter actually emphasize that I will really enjoy in the unit where I will be assigned. And they have asked me what are my preference for the placement in the unit. So actually, they gave me three options. And they recruiter told me that we are in need in this unit and your experience will suit this availability. So I grab it. And indeed, when I arrived here in the US, or, but not yet, even in the US, the people in the unit like the manager, the staff, the supervisor, they were already reaching out for me asking about me asking about my family, when I would be arriving in the US. So it has been so welcoming.  

And indeed, when I arrived and joined the unit, the people, the staff, the managers, they were so really helpful. They were so really welcoming that they guided me into the entire process that I fit in and I've been working with them until now. They guided me throughout the process to work well with them together with my colleagues and how to take care of my job and to deal with my patients. So that was really interesting. And even they were asking me regarding the housing location or the apartment location, where what will be my preference, they asked about my kids whether they will be in school, how old are they, but my wife what possible work that she would have. So they, they were really concerned as a, as an not only as a nurse, but as an individual as a person that we will be able to adapt well, and the new lab simulation in the US. Thank you for sharing that, Bryan, I can just tell by the smile on your face that you're really happy where you're at, which warms my heart and makes me very happy to hear. It sounds like for you, it was important that you were going to units where you felt valued and where you felt like they were treating you as an individual and not just a nurse. And sounds like you found that. So I'm very happy for you make before we talk to you about accepting an offer, and you know everything under that world and that umbrella. Do you have any interview tips that you can share with any of our nurses who might be going through that interview process? Yes, yes, yes. So first of all, I would say do your research, know the hospital that you're interviewing for, know about the area, know why you want to go to that hospital. 

When you're doing the interviews arrive about five minutes early, at least five minutes early. If it can be a little more, that's ideal. Sometimes the interviews, the interviewers are ready a little bit early, and we can get you in early. So arriving early is good. When you're interviewing, this is your time to shine. So you want to let them know about you. So highlight your accomplishments, highlight your experiences and share about you this is the chance you get to do that. Before the interview, I would say practice common questions your answers to those common questions and really be prepared to deliver those answers. You want to feel comfortable sharing about yourself. So a little bit of practice goes a long way. Dressing professionally is really important. You know, this is a job interview. It may be virtually being done virtually. But it's still a job interview. So think of it as you were going to that interview office. And you're showing up. So be professional in your attire, and also in the background of your camera. So make sure that your environment has good lighting, make sure the closet door is closed, the drawers on the dresser are close those little things that people see in the background, you want to present a professional front for that interview. 

Be aware of your facial expressions, your posture, they they really say a lot when you're virtual, because they they're only seeing what's on the screen. So it's important to just be aware of those things. And I would say you know, on top of doing that research, be able to ask questions when you're doing an interview. If you're asking questions, it shows you're interested in that in that hospital in that area. So always ask questions before you leave the interview. Thank you Meg has helped conduct hundreds if not 1000s of interviews at this point. So she has some very good insights, a lot of very good tips. If you're watching and you're going to be interviewing anytime soon. Make sure to keep all of those in mind, because they will help you have a better interview. So thank you for sharing that make. So Bryan, I want to hear about the moment that you got that job offer. What did it feel like? Well, when I got the dub over first, I was like cautious. I wanted to see what is within the job offer. I want to see how much they offer to me. What would be the patient ratio on that unit? And what would be the working condition. And after knowing all those, I was really excited to work on the unit and then the hospital that hired me. And until now I am enjoying working with them. 

That makes a lot of sense. Bryan, you know, at first I wasn't expecting you to say nervous I thought you were gonna say happy but I can imagine in that moment, it feels like oh my gosh, this actually might be real. I really need to look through this and really understand what I'm signing myself up for. How did you go about understanding the offer and how'd you go about reviewing it? Yeah, so we go about the offer we started regarding The hourly rate second would be like approximate annual offer, what would be the benefits for myself, my family members? And what would be the costs that they will be paying for me? What would be the contract length? Like for example, for us, we have three years contract in our company. And we see how would be the, the process for example, if you will not be able to fit in in your new workplace, what would be the possibilities that there will be a chance to transfer unit, what would be happening if you are going to transfer facility. So all these things, we look into the contract, and we make sure that it is in line like for example, your salary that is in line with PWD are the prevailing wage of that certain state. And apart from that, it's much more on benefits that we are trying to review the contract. 

Okay, that's really interesting, Bryan, those are some good pointers for nurses on what they should be looking out for. Meg, can you tell us what a job offer usually contains? I know, Bryan's kind of talked a little bit about what was important to him. What can a nurse expect to see in a job offer? Yeah, so when the job offer comes? You know, you're going to see obviously, what is the hospital offering to you? What are their benefits? So what is it, you know, that they're offering for you, you're going to see the specialty, you're going to see your pay rate. One of the other items on that letter is a reply by date. So those are really important things to take note of when you're choosing a facility. Keep in mind, what is that area? Like? You know, is that an area you're going to be happy in? Gillian talked a little bit about the weather. So you know, keep that in mind? Is that something that you're you're willing to try? Maybe that snowy weather? Look at the hospitals, accreditations and awards? You know, what is their training program? How are they able to help you when you arrive within the clinically setting? You know, they want you want to make sure you get a proper orientation, when you're arriving and that support? What is the community? Like is there going to be support within the community for you? When you look at that whole offer, you're going to see those key items that pay rate, the specialty, or the unit that you'll be working in? And then those benefits that are offered to you.  

I would say also considering what is what is the support for spouses, you know, Are there jobs are they open to maybe your spouse getting a job doesn't have to be a nurse job, it could be any job, that they might be able to help get your Spouse Employment, but just knowing the career prospects that are for you and your spouse, knowing you have the ability to grow within that organization, getting the same benefits and you know, mainly trusting your gut knowing that during that interview, you felt that you were comfortable with them, you know, you have to feel that match. And it has to be felt on both sides. You know, every hospital is not for every nurse. So you have to feel that that would be a place for you to do well and start your American dream. Thank you, Meg. Meg mentioned some of the items that you can get in your job offer. She mentioned the pay rates, if there's any shift differentials, some of the benefits like assistance in locating housing, an air ticket, coverage of the government and legal fees, all of those kinds of things that you can expect to see in a job offer, which on the Connetics side might vary, because we're gonna have different employers, but can you tell our nurses when they can expect to receive some of those benefits? How does that work? Absolutely. Um, so the, the support component of your offer starts immediately.

So when you accept an offer with O'Grady, Peyton International, the support that you receive from the team begins immediately. So you are assigned with an immigration coordinator who will walk you through every step of the process, help you fill in all of the documentation that is required, and keep you keep you updated on the progress of your application throughout that process.  

During your immigration process, you also work with Gillian's team on pre arrival education that you work with our clinical management team on to make sure that so that you have all that completed prior to arriving. And we also work with you on facility specific requirements if they if they require certain certifications, etc, depending on what unit that you are assigned to. But for the entire duration of your immigration process your relocation process. So you work with our relocation team on finding accommodations prior to you arriving here in the in the United States, as well as a clinic community liaison when you arrive. So it's very important that yes, you need to look at what you're going to be paid the unit that you were assigned to the nurse to patient ratio, all of that stuff, and benefits when you arrive like 401k, dental, vision, all of that which our team will go through with you in detail. Once you once you accept an offer, because that can be kind of confusing here in the United States. I know I still struggle with it sometimes. So that's very, very important. But you know, we also do provide airfare for the nurse relocation assistance, a community liaison, once you arrive, that will take you to the hospital in your first day, for example, help you with bank accounts, finding out where the grocery store is all of that stuff is very, very important. As part of an offer that you are accepting. And I would encourage you to really research that as to the support both clinical and social that you are receiving from whatever partner you choose. 

Thank you Deirdre, I think you really hit the nail on the head with O'Grady Peyton and with Connetics, we really, really focus on that support that we're providing you that clinical support that social support. We know I mean, a lot of us on this on this call have gone through this process. A lot of the managers at both companies have gone through this process. We know how exciting but difficult it can be. And so we really, really try to give you that supports to help you from day one, throughout your processing and even when you're in the US. So it's important to take account of what the company is offering you not just in terms of those cold, hard, you know, the cash and the benefits like that. But also those sorts of softer benefits, the support that we're offering you, Meg, I know a lot of nurses tend to look at things like the pay rate and the shift differentials, kind of those key items. Is there anything that you see that nurses sometimes may overlook, but that might be very critical, they should be paying attention to? Yes, so with the offer letters, I would say there's two key things that that I see often. One of them, as I mentioned before was that respond by date. So when there's a date on that letter, that offer letter to respond by a certain date, that actually does mean something. So if you are if you see that date, you are guaranteed that that position is going to be available for you in that timeframe. If you decide later, there may not be a position open, we'll have to go back to the clients and see if there is still an opening. So that date really does mean something when you see that date on there. 

And I would also say you know reading your offer carefully understanding the area, because once you accept that offer a whole process starts your immigration is starting so things are starting to move very quickly. And that support you get on both sides. You know the Grady Peyton side and Connetics, you know things start moving quickly. So understand what you're what you're signing. If you have questions, ask them because once you sign in accept that offer, you are now starting that process with the employer. So it's important to know that you're ready prepared to move forward and really committed to that job offer. Thank you, Meg. Those are some very key pieces of advice when you're looking through the job offer some things that you should be paying attention to some things that you should keep in mind. So thank you for sharing that insight. Meg, Gillian, I'm curious to hear from you. Do you have any advice for nurses who are debating maybe multiple job offers anything they should really be considering? Anything you took into account in your experience? Yeah, um, you know, it's, it's, it's so important to make the right choice. Make the right decision for both yourself and your family. You know, it's easy to only think, Okay, I'm looking for, you know, a great place to develop my career, and I have choices between or choice between Hospital A and hospital B is this huge teaching facility and I want to be there because it sounds wonderful. But like I mentioned before, and I think the Deandra alluded to it do a lot of research into the not only the hospital itself, but the community. Like I mentioned before the weather, literally everything.  

Because you might find that hospital a might be huge and fabulous. But if, for example, like me, you're coming with a very young family, you would want to be in a community that offered, you know, different activities for school aged children, parks, just different things. Or, if you're coming as a single person, you might want to be in an area that offered oh, let's say you're an outdoor type of person, and area that offered certain activities. So it's really important when you're trying to choose between offers to really don't look at just one factor. Look at multiple factors that really align with you as a person, as a nurse, your family as well. And for your future. So if you're coming say with teenage children, you might want to look at what universities are in the city or the town or nearby, that you would be. So just kind of think really broadly, I would say, in terms of your career, your future, your family's future, their lives and opportunities for them as well. So just a lot of research, not being, you know, very narrow in your thinking, thinking really broadly, across multiple factors. Because this is where you're coming to stay for many years, and you want to be happy with where you are. So yeah, 

I think that is traded by Australian, I think it's very important to take stock of your future and be thinking about where you're going to be if you're single, or you're you have a family coming with you where you can foresee yourself living. Another thing we haven't touched on, that comes to mind for me is to also take into consideration cost of living with your pay rate. I know sometimes you might just see the pay rate. And you might be thinking, you know, how does this compare, but sometimes it's hard to compare apples to apples, a pay rate California might be very different from one Columbus, Ohio, but that also needs to be taken into account cost of living. So just another little key tidbits to share. As we're almost closing in on the hour, Nurse Bryan, I want to finish up with you. I want to hear about what it feels like to be here now. You've gone through this process, you are living the American dream, how does it feel? Can you tell our nurses. So what I feel is that I was really joyful that I'm here in the US enjoying all the opportunities, opportunity for my family, the opportunity for my career and the opportunity to improve my career, and to be able to have this kind of life and career in the US. And I want to share with you all that being here in the US is not all really like better roses. So there will be challenges that you will face as you go on with your life as a nurse or as an individual here in the US, especially if you have families. So we have to focus on our goal, we have to focus on safety and well being our family. And as well as we could be careful with our job that we may be able to practice well and will not be able to go away. purpose of being here in the US. 

Thank you, Bryan. I think that's all very important to keep in mind and really good advice for our nurses. Do you have any final pieces of advice as someone who's come out on the other end for a nurse who's going to be going through that interview process, that recruitment process? Anything now looking back was thinking I'm glad I did that, or I should have done that differently? So I think you should be very patient, very responsive regarding the requirements. The agency or the company is asking regarding your recruitment process that would help to ease. He's and sped up the entire process. As long as you respond promptly, we will be able to help the smooth process of your application to the US. Thank you, Bryan, I think that's very good advice. You're, it's your life, it's your processing. So the more communicative you are with your recruiter, the more open you are, the more responsive you are, the better off you're going to be because of it. So thank you. I appreciate that. Thank you to our amazing experts for being on our show today. I know I really enjoyed this one, I learned some new stuff. So I'm sure our nurses did too. Thank you all for your time today. I really appreciate it. Before we go. We're going to look at our schedule for the next few weeks on the Connetics onwards, and upwards Stroh next week, we are gonna have a special immigration Q&A. I know everybody is anxiously awaiting the updated October visa bulletin. Whenever the bulletin comes out, Connetics will be the first one bringing you a special report. So right now, we haven't so planned for September 15. But if the visa bulletin comes out earlier, we will be doing a special show earlier. So make sure to keep watch for that.  

On September 22. We have our stateside show, we're going to be featuring the Great Lakes states. On October 6, we're going to be talking about taxes in the USA. I know this is something that can be a little scary for everybody, including myself. So we're going to have some good information there. On October 13. We're going to be featuring North Side hospitals. So we're going to be doing a client showcase. On September 12, we have to throw something make sure to check that out. We also have our Connetics every Monday at 6am Pacific with our partners Aspire RN 9.0 Niner and IPass Connetics and this has ever offered to you have our English scholarship. So this is available for all of our Connetics nurses. Through our program, we offer our $1,000 referral fee for any nurses with NCLEX, which we've extended through the end of the year. So if you know any nurses, please feel free to refer them and avail yourself of that referral fee. We have our podcast. We have our nurse aide program, if you're looking at that our onwards and upwards live show every Friday at 7am. Our Connetics college shows every Monday at 6am and we are also hiring for allied so if you are a medical lab technologist, any of these allied specialties, we can help you come to America as well. So thank you for watching everybody. I hope you enjoyed the show. We enjoyed presenting for you and we look forward to helping you and bringing you to America to live your American dream just like nurse Gillian just like nurse Bryan. So thank you everybody onwards and upwards. We'll see you all next week. Thank you, everybody.