A common mistake new Workampers make

Beginning the full-time RVing adventure is exciting! Many RVers combine full-timing with Workamping® or working or volunteering on the road. This brings in income, allows you to stay in one spot for an extended time and may even provide a free spot. It’s an excellent way to explore an area in depth or stay in an area you like as well as the chance to be productive and make RV friends.

However, many new to Workamping® make this mistake: They only apply to one or two jobs and they take the first offer. At the end of the season, they are often unhappy. It wasn’t quite what they expected.

What are the advantages of applying to lots of jobs?

1. Each time you interview for a position, you learn more about what to ask. One employer may mention discounted propane and free laundry. Not all employers offer that, but you are more likely to obtain these perks if you ask about them. It may not occur to you the first time to ask about days off together if you are a couple, but when an employer mentions that, it goes on your list of questions to ask.
   


2. You get a feel for what compensation you can ask for. By seeing the range of compensation, you may find some employers are willing to pay more—or offer more perks— than you had initially expected. You can ask for more from a stronger position.
   


3. You’ll get an idea of how seasonal businesses are run and how they differ. Perhaps one Workamper couple does it all. At other places, employees specialize and work at only one task. As you hear about these differences, you may realize one is a better fit than another.
   


4. Owners/managers can vary considerably in their personalities. Talking to different employers will give you a better idea of what type of boss you want to work with.
   


5. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. If you only apply to one or two jobs and those do not work out, you have to start from scratch. By having a number of applications and résumés in process, if your favorite one falls through, you have others in the works. You might even find a better one!
   


6. You can bargain. If you have applied to lots of employers —and I recommend 15-20— you are more likely to end up in the enviable position of having two employers who both want you. This can help you negotiate for better compensation or more perks.
   

There is definitely a learning curve when becoming a Workamper®. Rather than grab the first job and risk being unhappy, talk to a number of employers and get a feel for what is available. You’ll make a better choice when you have several to choose from. Jaimie

For more information on getting started working and volunteering on the RV road, see Jaimie's 2nd edition of Support Your RV Lifestyle! An Insider's Guide to Working on the Road, available at RVBookstore.com.