The Power of Personal Branding as a Pharmacist 

In today’s fiercely competitive job market, personal branding has become indispensable for professional success. This holds particularly true for early career pharmacists who are navigating the complexities of establishing themselves in the field. Personal branding involves crafting a unique identity, shaping a reputation, and projecting an image that distinguishes professionals from their peers.

 

Why is Personal Branding Vital for Early Career Pharmacists?

 

Personal branding serves as a potent tool to set early career pharmacists apart by accentuating their individual strengths, skills, and values. In a crowded job market, a compelling personal brand becomes a beacon, capturing the attention of potential employers and collaborators. Beyond mere visibility, a robust personal brand enables early career pharmacists to shape a positive professional reputation, paving the way for career advancement. Moreover, a well-established personal brand has the magnetic power to attract mentors, networking opportunities, and exclusive invitations to industry events, contributing significantly to ongoing career development.

 

Crafting Your Personal Brand: A Roadmap to Success

 

Define Your Values and Unique Selling Points:

 

Identify your core values, strengths, and areas of expertise.

Reflect on what sets you apart in the field and the impact you aspire to make as a pharmacist. This self-reflection forms the bedrock of your personal brand.

Craft Your Personal Brand Statement:

 

Develop a concise and compelling statement that communicates your unique value proposition.

Highlight your expertise, the value you bring to patients or employers, and what makes you stand out. This statement becomes the essence of your personal brand.

 

Online Presence:

 

Establish a professional online presence on platforms like LinkedIn and Locumate.

Optimise your profiles to showcase your achievements, expertise, and interests. Engage in industry discussions, share valuable content, and connect with influential professionals to expand your network and boost visibility.

 

Consistent Messaging:

 

Ensure your personal brand messaging is consistent across all channels.

Align your message from your resume and cover letter to your social media profiles and professional interactions with your personal brand statement and desired professional image.

 

Build Relationships and Network:

 

Actively participate in professional organisations, attend industry conferences, and engage in networking opportunities.

Foster relationships with mentors, colleagues, and industry influencers. Collaboration and mentorship can amplify your personal brand and open doors to new opportunities.

 

Continual Learning and Growth:

 

Invest in continuous learning and professional development.

Stay updated with the latest trends, advancements, and research in pharmacy. Demonstrate a commitment to growth, staying ahead in your field, and strengthening your personal brand.

 

Personal branding is not just a buzzword; it’s a crucial strategy for early career pharmacists looking to thrive in the competitive landscape of pharmacy. By crafting a strong personal brand, you not only differentiate yourself but also build a positive professional reputation, creating opportunities for career advancement. So, start today by developing your personal brand statement and optimising your LinkedIn page! Embracing personal branding not only enhances professional growth but also positions early career pharmacists as confident, competent, and influential healthcare professionals in the pharmacy field.

How do I get involved in Pharmacy outside the classroom?

By Isa Bautista (Student Engagement Lead, Locumate & Intern Pharmacist)

As a newly graduated pharmacy student starting my internship in early January, I have found myself reflecting on the last 4 years I have spent at university. I am grateful that my journey has been filled with excitement, challenges, and a continuously growing passion for the field of pharmacy. It has been such a rewarding experience, from the early days in the classroom to the invaluable hands-on training in placements. Besides staying on top of my studies, I have also been involved in numerous extra-curricular activities which have been instrumental in developing my communication skills, leadership roles, and making new connections. If you’re looking for ideas on how else to get involved in the pharmacy community as a student, I have listed all the pharmacy-related activities I have been involved in throughout my time as a student!

Student pharmacist

Having a part-time job as a student pharmacist, especially in a community pharmacy, is perfect to supplement your studies and consolidate the content you learn in class. Additionally, it is the best way to practice your counselling skills which you will use for the rest of your career. An easy way to keep up to date with job ads is by signing up to Locumate/Jobs in Pharmacy!

Pharmacy technician

I had the opportunity to be a pharmacy technician in a private oncology hospital in my final year of study. This role helped me to understand that being a reliable pharmacist is larger than knowing all of your clinical knowledge, but also having a good grasp of how the PBS works, how to navigate medication shortages, and the importance of interdisciplinary care.

Committee member in student association

Getting involved in your university’s pharmacy student association is a fantastic opportunity to meet like-minded individuals, but also to strengthen your connections with the greater pharmacy industry through helping organise education events, attend sponsor meetings, and advocate for student engagement with the school.

Pharmacy student ambassador

Representing your degree to prospective students alongside other allied health students is a fun way to cultivate interest in the profession. Going to school expos, talking to interested students at Open Days, and making lifelong friendships with the other student ambassadors are experiences I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to do during my time at university.

Tutor

Some universities offer casual positions to high-achieving students as tutors for students in younger years. This is a great way to recall content from previous years to keep it fresh in your mind. It is also fulfilling to know that you are helping others in your field to understand challenging information.

In summary, extracurricular activities in a pharmacy program are not just about balancing your academic pursuits with other interests; they are a means of enriching your education, personal growth, and skill development, ultimately making you a more well-rounded and competitive pharmacy professional after graduation. 

 

Why everyone is quitting their 9-to-5: The 5 Benefits of On-Demand Work

In the dynamic landscape of today’s workforce, the rise of on-demand workers is reshaping traditional employment paradigms. From flexibility to increased pay and a better work-life balance, the benefits of on-demand workers are transforming the way we approach employment. Let’s delve into the advantages that come with embracing the on-demand work model.

Flexibility Redefined

One of the standout benefits of on-demand work is the unparalleled flexibility it offers. Unlike traditional 9-to-5 jobs, on-demand workers have the autonomy to set their own schedules. This flexibility caters to diverse lifestyles, making it an ideal option for parents, students, and those seeking a better integration of work and personal commitments. Whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, on-demand work allows you to tailor your schedule to fit your peak productivity hours.

Better Pay

On-demand work often comes with the potential for increased earnings. The gig economy, characterised by short-term and freelance roles, allows workers to take on multiple projects simultaneously, diversifying income streams. Many on-demand platforms reward skill and efficiency, providing an opportunity for workers to be compensated at rates that reflect their expertise. This increased pay is not only a financial incentive but also a recognition of the value on-demand workers bring to the table.

Better Work-Life Balance

Achieving a healthy work-life balance is a perpetual goal for many professionals, and on-demand work excels in facilitating this equilibrium. The ability to control when and where you work contributes to a more harmonious integration of professional and personal life. Whether it’s attending a midday yoga class, spending quality time with family, or pursuing personal hobbies, on-demand work empowers individuals to craft a lifestyle that aligns with their priorities.

Access to a Diverse Range of Opportunities

On-demand work opens the door to a diverse range of opportunities that might be otherwise inaccessible in traditional employment structures. This diversity can span industries, projects, and collaborations with different teams and organisations. On-demand workers have the chance to explore their passions, acquire new skills, and build a versatile professional portfolio, enriching their overall career trajectory.

Adaptability in a Changing Economy

As the economy evolves, on-demand work proves to be a resilient and adaptable model. It caters to the gig economy’s demand for flexibility and efficiency, allowing workers to quickly pivot between projects and adapt to changing market needs. This adaptability enhances job security and empowers workers to stay relevant in an ever-changing professional landscape.

The benefits of on-demand work extend far beyond the conventional notions of employment. From the unparalleled flexibility that accommodates individual lifestyles to the potential for increased pay and a better work-life balance, on-demand work is revolutionising the way we approach our careers. Embracing the on-demand model not only opens up new opportunities but also empowers individuals to take control of their professional destinies. As we navigate the evolving world of work, the advantages of on-demand workers continue to reshape our understanding of what a fulfilling and successful career looks like.


How To Start The New Year Off Right: A Pharmacist’s Guide to New Year Preparation and Goal Setting

As the year comes to a close, pharmacists everywhere are gearing up for a fresh start in the new year. It’s the perfect time to reflect on achievements, learn from challenges, and set the stage for professional growth. In this guide, we’ll explore how pharmacists can best prepare for the upcoming year and leverage Locumate to set and achieve meaningful goals.

Reflect on the Past Year

Before diving into the new year, take a moment to reflect on the past one. What were your successes, challenges, and areas for improvement? Reflecting on your experiences can provide valuable insights that will inform your goals for the future.

Set SMART Goals

When setting goals for the new year, remember the SMART criteria—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Instead of a vague resolution, such as “improve patient interactions,” try setting a specific and measurable goal like “attend a communication skills workshop to enhance patient interactions by March.”

Explore New Training and Certification Opportunities

Pharmacy is an ever-evolving field, and staying updated on the latest trends and technologies is crucial. Use the PSA, AJP and other CPD platforms to explore training and certification opportunities that align with your career goals. Whether it’s expanding your knowledge in a specialised area or gaining a new certification, continuous learning contributes to professional growth.

Network and Collaborate

Networking is a powerful tool in any pharmacist’s arsenal. Leverage community groups to connect with fellow pharmacists, share insights, and even collaborate on projects. Building a strong professional network can open doors to new opportunities and provide a support system for your career journey.

Utilise Locumate for Career Advancement

Locumate, your trusted ally in finding locum opportunities, can play a pivotal role in your career advancement. Update your Locumate profile with your latest achievements, certifications, and skills. This ensures that potential employers have an accurate and comprehensive view of your capabilities.

Balance Work and Personal Life

While career goals are important, don’t forget to set personal goals that contribute to your overall well-being. Use Locumate to manage your locum assignments efficiently, allowing for a better work-life balance. Whether it’s allocating time for hobbies, exercise, or family, a balanced life contributes to overall happiness and success.

As the new year approaches, pharmacists have a unique opportunity to set the stage for a successful and fulfilling year ahead. By leveraging Locumate, reflecting on the past year, setting SMART goals, exploring new opportunities, networking, and balancing work and personal life, you can chart a course for success in the ever-evolving field of pharmacy. Cheers to a year of growth, learning, and achievement!


The Future of Work: On-Demand Workers Reshaping the Labor Landscape

In recent years, the nature of work has been evolving rapidly, driven in large part by technological advancements and shifting societal attitudes towards traditional employment structures. One prominent facet of this transformation is the rise of on-demand or gig workers, fundamentally altering how individuals engage with work and how businesses operate. This article explores the emergence and impact of on-demand workers, shedding light on their role in shaping the future of work.

The Rise of On-Demand Workers

On-demand work, often referred to as the gig economy, encompasses a diverse range of work arrangements where individuals provide services on a temporary or flexible basis. Enabled by digital platforms and mobile applications, on-demand work spans various sectors, including transportation (e.g., Uber, Lyft), accommodation (e.g., Airbnb), freelancing (e.g., Upwork, Fiverr), and more.

The appeal of on-demand work lies in its flexibility and accessibility. Individuals can choose when, where, and how much they work, aligning their employment with personal preferences and circumstances. This flexibility is particularly attractive to students, freelancers, stay-at-home parents, or those seeking supplemental income. Moreover, the gig economy allows workers to diversify their skill sets, gain experience across multiple industries, and enjoy a better work-life balance.

Impact on Traditional Employment

The rise of on-demand workers has disrupted the traditional employer-employee relationship. Many individuals are opting for gig work over conventional jobs due to the perceived freedom and autonomy it offers. This shift is prompting businesses to reevaluate their hiring practices, compensation models, and workplace policies to stay competitive and appealing to modern workers.

Companies are increasingly leveraging gig workers to enhance their agility and scalability. On-demand workers can be swiftly deployed during peak demand periods, ensuring companies can meet customer needs without maintaining a large, fixed workforce. This approach optimises labor costs and enables companies to adapt more efficiently to market fluctuations.

Challenges and Concerns

While the gig economy presents opportunities, it is not without its challenges. On-demand workers often lack the traditional benefits and protections associated with standard employment, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave. This raises concerns about financial stability, social security, and the long-term well-being of gig workers.

Additionally, the gig economy can exacerbate income inequality. Earnings for gig workers can vary significantly based on demand, location, and the specific platform they work on. Some may struggle to earn a sustainable income, leading to financial insecurity and limited access to essential services.

Regulation and Future Outlook

As the gig economy continues to grow and reshape the labor landscape, governments and policymakers are grappling with how to regulate it effectively. Balancing the need to protect workers while fostering innovation and entrepreneurship is a delicate task. Proposed regulations often aim to strike a balance by providing certain rights and benefits to gig workers without stifling the flexibility and innovation that defines the gig economy.

In the future, we may witness a hybrid model that combines the flexibility of gig work with some of the protections associated with traditional employment. Initiatives like portable benefits, which would allow gig workers to accrue benefits across multiple employers, are being explored to address some of the challenges faced by gig workers.

Conclusion

The rise of on-demand workers and the gig economy is transforming the nature of work, challenging traditional employment models and prompting a reconsideration of labor regulations. While it offers newfound flexibility and opportunities, addressing concerns related to job security, income stability, and worker protections remains crucial.

The future of work is likely to be a blend of traditional employment and on-demand arrangements, striving to strike a balance that benefits both workers and businesses. As the gig economy continues to evolve, it will be essential to find innovative solutions that foster a fair, inclusive, and sustainable work environment for all.

Prioritising Mental Health: A Prescription for Pharmacist Well-being

In the bustling world of healthcare, pharmacists are the unsung heroes who ensure timely access to medicines. Yet, amidst the constant rush to serve others, their own mental health often takes a backseat. In this article, we’ll delve into the crucial importance of mental health for pharmacists, shedding light on the impact of recent and upcoming mental health awareness campaigns, and gaining insights from our Locumate partners.

Why is mental health particularly vital for pharmacists?

First and foremost, the cornerstone of a pharmacist’s role is to provide patient care and assist others. To deliver optimal care, maintaining good mental health is paramount for making sound decisions and effectively communicating with patients. Empathy plays a significant role in this equation. To help and understand others, pharmacists need to ensure their own well-being first. After all, you can’t pour from an empty cup.

Working in a pharmacy can be exceptionally high-pressure, with long hours and a profound responsibility for patient safety. Stress and burnout are common challenges, underlining the urgency of prioritising mental well-being to cope with the demands of the job.

Pharmacists also regularly confront emotionally taxing situations when dealing with patients facing serious illnesses and end-of-life care. Developing emotional resilience is a vital asset, enabling them to navigate these challenging scenarios while safeguarding their own mental health.

By prioritising mental health, pharmacists set a powerful example for their patients and colleagues. It underscores the significance of seeking help when necessary and fosters a culture of well-being.

Mental Health Awareness Campaigns: RUOK Day and Movember

Every September, RUOK Day brings the critical role of mental health to the forefront. This nationwide event encourages a simple yet profound question: “Are you okay?” It serves as a poignant reminder for pharmacists who, amidst long hours and the weight of patient care, sometimes forget to ask this crucial question – not only to others but also to themselves. We invite you to check out our latest Elevate My Pharmacy Career Series podcast with Kay from the Pharmacists Support Service Australia (available on Spotify). In this episode, Kay shares invaluable insights on how pharmacists can navigate the demanding aspects of their profession while making their mental well-being a top priority. She offers practical tips for pharmacists aiming to enhance their mental health in our fast-paced working world today.

In addition to September, Movember, the month of magnificent moustaches, is more than just a facial hair fashion statement. It’s a rallying cry for men’s mental health awareness. Men often find it challenging to openly discuss their mental well-being, but Movember strives to shatter the stigma surrounding these conversations. Within the Locumate team, several valiant souls are gearing up to participate in Movember, embodying the spirit of unity and raising awareness about mental health challenges that affect everyone, regardless of gender. Stay tuned on our social media for updates throughout the month!

In the realm of healthcare, the well-being of pharmacists is intricately connected to the well-being of the patients they serve. RUOK Day serves as a poignant reminder to initiate crucial conversations about mental health, while Movember encourages open dialogue and solidarity in the face of these challenges. The importance of mental health for pharmacists cannot be emphasised enough; it forms the bedrock of their ability to provide exceptional care and navigate the formidable aspects of their profession. Let’s unite, raise awareness, and wholeheartedly support the mental health of our dedicated pharmacists. After all, a healthy pharmacist is a better healer.

Day in the life of Vedrana Djurkovic

I am currently writing this piece almost at the end of my intern supervised hours, and studying for my exams. When I was asked to write about a day in my life, I think I screwed my face up and thought “why?” because there is nothing interesting about my life at the moment. I work, eat, study, sleep and repeat. 

 

I work full time in a community pharmacy where I have been since I started my degree. So I am very familiar with the staff, store processes and customers. At work I have been trying to focus on asking as many questions as I can, to best prepare myself for when I graduate and am working on my own. The closer I come to getting my registration, the more I am excited, but also nervous, about the future. I’ve thought about being on my own and not having a support team, pharmacists to check my work, and it can be daunting coming to the realisation that I will be completely responsible for the decisions I make. It’s a huge responsibility, and it surprises me that I didn’t really think about this until now. 

 

Working full time and studying at the same time has been really tough for me. I come home from work and I’m too exhausted to study most nights. I let go of some of my hobbies at the start of my internship because I felt I was struggling to maintain them, and simply did not have the mental capacity to uphold them. However, after checking in with the owner of the pharmacy, she did remind me to think about myself and my mental health. Shortly after realising I was just a big ball of stress, I got back into working out and feeling better about myself. Which, in turn, made me feel more relaxed, and led me to have a clearer head.

 

Most of the year I was trying to keep up with my school work. I study at work by interacting with customers, doctors and involving myself in new situations to further enhance my knowledge and skills. As well as, spending time to sit down with my preceptor every week and go through medicine knowledge. 

 

The most challenging part of my internship thus far, is the pressure. This year felt like you were being punched from every angle at the same time. So many things you need to do, all at once. But my advice would be to stay organised, and write out everything you would like to complete every couple of months and work towards completing these tasks. Most importantly, we do need to be reminded to look after ourselves. We are so focused on finishing our degree, that we can neglect our personal health. I’ve learnt this is so important to maintain balance and without that, we’re unable to show up at our best. 

Day in The Life of Hasini

8:00am – Morning routine 

I like to kick off the day with a big cup of tea and a slice of toast with a runny egg. I spend some time catching up on a book and really try to be present in these first few moments of quiet in the morning. I feel it sets the tone for my workday and gets me into the right headspace. Before I jump into work, I create a to-do list that summarises my non-negotiable outputs for the day, and I make sure to schedule in some time for a break.  

9:00am – Emails and Co-founder sync

Then onto my inbox. I block out time first thing in the morning to check these in case there are any urgent requests or actions to address. Once that’s done, I start prepping for my check-in with the co-founder. I really look forward to these sessions as they only come around once a week and he always has a multitude of enthralling updates to share; a new customer we acquired, an exciting new feature we designed or a big bug we caught just in time. I also take this hour to get the co-founder’s feedback and advice on some of my work. We realign on priorities and talk about required outputs for the week ahead. 

10:30am – Deep work 

After my check-in, I’m ready to enter into deep work mode. I chuck on my favourite drum and bass playlist and get stuck in. As I am still fairly new to my role, I’m still becoming familiar with our users and the full functionality of our product. I spend some time reviewing the product backlog to give me an idea of what’s in the pipeline and start playing around with the demo version of the product to get familiar with what our users experience. I also work on some upgrades to our website including the FAQs section as well as our educational platform. 

1pm – Lunch time 

I take at least 30 minutes for lunch so that I can reset for the afternoon. I try to avoid screens and make sure I go for a quick walk outside. 

2pm – New product development 

The afternoon continues with a special focus on a new product in the pipeline called PartnerMate. I’ve been tasked with reviewing version 1 of the product and identifying where and how the user interface needs to change based on the needs of our users. This is my favourite thing to do because I get to be creative and step into the shoes of my users to ensure we design something that is truly customer centric. 

5pm – Winding down 

I clock off at around 5 pm and drag myself to the gym (if I feel up for it). Once I’m back, I’ll cook dinner with my partner or head out for something special with friends. I conclude the day with some reading or a board game, and of course some skincare. 

Working at a start-up requires you to wear many hats in a day. At Locumate, every day is certainly a mix of chaos and excitement. I love this role and always look forward to the challenge of a brand-new day.  

How Locumate’s Seamless Communication Features Enhance Pharmacy Operations

In today’s fast-paced healthcare industry, effective communication is paramount for ensuring optimal patient care and streamlining day-to-day operations. For pharmacies seeking to maintain efficiency and provide consistent services, Locumate emerges as a game-changer. Our platform goes beyond mere locum staffing solutions; it offers a comprehensive suite of seamless communication features designed to connect pharmacists and pharmacies effortlessly. In this article, we will explore how Locumate’s seamless communication features elevate pharmacy operations and create a harmonious work environment for all stakeholders.

Instant Messaging for Real-Time Updates

Locumate’s real-time messaging system enables direct and instant communication between pharmacies and locum pharmacists. Gone are the days of playing phone tag or waiting for email responses. Pharmacists can share updates on their availability, schedule changes, and query pharmacies about shift details. Similarly, pharmacies can quickly reach out to locums for urgent assignments or to address any unforeseen changes, ensuring a continuous flow of essential information.

Notifications and Reminders

Staying on top of schedules is vital for any pharmacy. Locumate’s built-in notification system acts as a virtual assistant, sending timely reminders to both pharmacists and pharmacies about upcoming shifts and assignments. This feature minimizes the risk of missed shifts and prevents any potential staffing gaps, thus contributing to improved patient care.

Secure and Confidential Communication

Confidentiality is a non-negotiable aspect of healthcare. Locumate prioritises the privacy and security of all communication exchanged on the platform. Both pharmacies and locum pharmacists can rest assured that their conversations remain protected and exclusive to the relevant parties. 

Feedback and Ratings

Effective communication is a two-way street, and Locumate acknowledges the value of constructive feedback. After each assignment, pharmacies can provide ratings and reviews for locum pharmacists, offering valuable insights into their performance. Conversely, locum pharmacists can share their feedback on their experience with the pharmacy, helping both parties to improve and grow.

Centralised Communication Hub

Locumate acts as a centralised communication hub, making it easy for pharmacies to access and manage all communication related to locum staffing. There’s no need to juggle between various platforms or channels; everything is consolidated on Locumate, leading to increased efficiency and time savings.

In today’s competitive healthcare landscape, pharmacies need efficient solutions to connect with locum pharmacists and maintain smooth operations. Locumate’s seamless communication features are designed to meet these needs and go beyond, creating a dynamic ecosystem where pharmacies and locum pharmacists can interact effortlessly. By leveraging real-time messaging, secure document sharing, notifications, and feedback systems, Locumate enhances the way pharmacies communicate with their locum workforce, leading to optimised staff scheduling, improved patient care, and an overall sense of partnership and collaboration.

Harnessing the Power of Community: How It Boosts Work Performance

When Locumate first came to fruition, our biggest focus was on building a community for our locums. When previously they had no support or group they belonged to, locums felt isolated and unappreciated for their efforts, especially during the pandemic. It was essential throughout the Locumate journey, that we create this community that had been lacking for too long in the industry. After all, communities bring people together, foster collaboration, and create a sense of belonging. A strong community can enhance work performance and contribute to individual and organisational success. So what are some ways in which communities provide the greatest benefits? See below!

Support and Motivation

Being part of a community provides individuals with a support system that can positively influence their work performance. When faced with challenges or setbacks, having a community to lean on can provide encouragement, guidance, and motivation. The support and motivation received from a community can inspire individuals to push beyond their limits, leading to improved work performance.

Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing

When individuals come together, they bring a diverse range of skills, experiences, and perspectives. By tapping into this collective intelligence, community members can exchange ideas, share best practices, and learn from one another. Collaboration within a community not only expands individual knowledge but also enhances problem-solving abilities and boosts work performance. 

Continuous Learning and Development

Within a community, individuals can participate in workshops, seminars, webinars, and other educational activities that enhance their professional growth. Engaging in continuous learning allows individuals to stay updated with industry trends, acquire new skills, and expand their knowledge base. The access to valuable resources and the opportunity to learn from experts in the field can significantly impact work performance. By staying abreast of the latest developments and honing their skills, community members become more effective and efficient in their work.

Networking and Career Advancement

Communities serve as a networking platform that opens doors to new opportunities and career advancement. By connecting with like-minded professionals, individuals can expand their professional network, establish valuable relationships, and access a broader range of job prospects. Networking within a community can lead to mentorship, collaborations, and even referrals for new career opportunities. 

Well-being and Work-Life Balance

A sense of community promotes overall well-being and work-life balance. Feeling connected to others and having a support system outside of work positively impacts mental health and reduces stress levels. When individuals have a sense of belonging and connection, they are more likely to bring their whole selves to work, resulting in higher job satisfaction and improved work performance. 

A thriving community has the power to transform work performance by fostering support, collaboration, continuous learning, networking, and overall well-being. Together, we can build strong communities that empower individuals and elevate work performance to new heights.