The fear of disconnection from loved ones is one of the concerns we most often hear expressed by our medical professionals as they prepare to leave for assignments. It’s a legitimate concern, because staying connected requires effort on the part of both parties, the one who travels, and those who stay home. 

The US military has been deploying service men and women for as long as it’s been in existence, and they emphasize, “The greatest morale for deployed service members is hearing from family and loved ones. Staying connected can help keep your relationship strong until everyone is reunited.” Thanks to modern technology, this is easier than ever before. 

Granted, your work as a traveling medical professional with TREK Healthcare Staffing isn’t the same type of service as a soldier’s, but you will be in a new environment and removed from those you love, so preserving that sense of connection is vital.  

Ten Tactics for Keeping in Touch

There are no “rules” for what keeping in touch looks like beyond personalization and intentionality. Grandma doesn’t know how to FaceTime? A letter will suffice. Your young child can’t read letters yet? Try recording and sending a video. The goal here is connection. This happens when we spend time together (even virtually) and share the stuff of life with one another. Here are some ideas you can personalize and make your own. 

1. Send a “happy thought” in the mail.

Nothing brightens a person’s day like a curated box of gifts bought just for you. Whether it’s a collection of small local products from the city in which you’re working, themed goodies, or a special occasion gift, knowing you took the time to pick, pack, and send those gifts with your loved one in mind will help bridge the distance. Pinterest is a great place to look for inspiration, as it features hundreds of great ideas for your specific loved one. 

2. Schedule Video Calls.

Yes, we strongly recommend video calls (FaceTime, Skype, Zoom, Google Meet, etc.) over traditional phone calls for two simple reasons. When we’re on video, we have to get still in one place and focus on the conversation, which can yield a much better connection. Additionally, video calls are the closest we can get to in-person interaction, enabling us to not send and receive messages, but to see facial expressions and body language. Have you ever had a conflict with someone over a texted message, only to later discover you’d misunderstood the intent? We rest our case. 

3. Send Snail Mail.

Does this sound so old-school you can’t even remember the last time you communicated this way? When was the last time you received a handwritten card or letter? The novelty alone of what was once the primary mode of keeping in touch makes it a pleasant surprise. Plus, letter writing itself is a personal and connecting experience as the writer crafts his words and the recipient gets a personalized and tangible bit of you.

4. Blog about your new experiences.

No time to tell the same story to five aunties, two grandparents, and ten of your closest friends? Create a travel blog to recount the stories and observations of your experiences. Not only does this become your virtual journal of all you’ve experienced, but your loved ones can read them and respond at a time that works for them across time zones and varying work schedules.

5. Plan a Virtual Date.

Whether you’re missing coffee with your best friend or dinner with your significant other, or the launch of a new season of your and your sister’s favorite show, why not do it together through a video call? Schedule a time and activity that suits you both and enjoy the experience with them as if you were at the same table.

6. Share Photos and Videos.

We all know what they say about the value of a picture. Capture the people and places you experience and share them. They will become instant conversation starters and help the recipient better connect with the stories you share.

7. Pre-record Videos of You Doing Family Rituals.

Do you have a trademark dance, great bedtime story reading skills, a knack for teaching others how to cook a new recipe? Think creatively…what are the things YOU add to your family and friend circles? Make videos of yourself doing these things. Then, whenever the occasion calls for your victory dance, your reading, or your lemon meringue pie, your family can just open a file and enjoy a moment with you.

8. Tell Stories.

Living in a new place comes with all kinds of fun, feats, and foibles. Bring your loved ones into your experience by sharing anecdotes of a day in your life. Get descriptive. Be willing to laugh at yourself. It’ll be just as good for you to process things as it is for them to connect to your experiences.

9. Social Media

Whether you prefer Instagram or Facebook, sharing your pictures and posts on social media can expand your audience and help you stay connected with many people quickly. Likewise, you can reach out to your friends and like and comment on what they are sharing lo show them you are still engaged and interested in their lives as well.

10. Extend Grace and Gratitude.

Life can get in the way of our very best plans and intentions sometimes. If your friend didn’t call at the time you’d planned last week or your teen isn’t in the mood to talk with you, don’t take it personally. They are dealing with challenges just like you are, especially if they are taking on extra responsibilities on your behalf while you’re gone. Let them know how much you appreciate them and value what time they are able to share with you, and if feasible, go ahead and plan for the next opportunity to engage. It will give everyone something to look forward to.

While You Are Away

It’s true that keeping in touch long distance presents unique challenges. Remember, though, that the separation is temporary, and the opportunity you have to travel and work is an incredible one. The efforts you make to stay in touch will make the transition back home nearly seamless.

Are you ready to take on a travel nursing adventure? The placement specialists at TREK Healthcare Staffing would love to answer your questions, match you with the perfect assignment, and support your growing career. Give us a call today!