As we start a new year, it’s a great time for locum pharmacists to reflect on their professional growth and the impact they have on the pharmacies they work with. One key area that plays a significant role in your career is feedback and ratings from the pharmacies you work with. Positive feedback can help you secure more job opportunities, build your reputation, and gain a loyal client base. To help you excel in this area, we’ve put together a few dos and don’ts for obtaining the best feedback and ratings.
Dos for Locum Pharmacists:
# 1. Do Arrive Early and Be Prepared
Arriving on time (or even early) and being fully prepared for your shift is one of the easiest ways to make a good impression. Pharmacies rely on locums to ensure that the day runs smoothly, and being punctual demonstrates professionalism and reliability.
Why it matters: When you arrive early, you show that you are serious about your work, committed to the pharmacy, and ready to contribute from the very first minute. It sets the tone for the entire shift, and pharmacies will appreciate your proactive approach.
# 2. Do Communicate Effectively
Effective communication is essential for building strong relationships with pharmacy teams. Make sure to actively listen, ask questions if unsure, and share relevant information with your team. Use the inhouse communication system such as their physical diary or digital systems where required.
Why it matters: Clear communication minimizes mistakes and ensures that everyone is on the same page. If any issues arise, addressing them promptly through open communication helps prevent misunderstandings. This results in better collaboration, which pharmacies will appreciate.
# 3. Do Provide Excellent Customer Service
As a locum, you are not just dispensing medications; you are representing the pharmacy and interacting with customers. Provide the same level of care and service that the regular team would.
Why it matters: Pharmacies are in the business of patient care, and your interactions with customers reflect the values of the pharmacy. A positive customer experience translates into better feedback, making you a valuable asset to the pharmacy.
# 4. Do Follow Pharmacy Protocols
Each pharmacy has its own set of protocols and procedures. Familiarize yourself with these, whether it’s about patient confidentiality, drug interactions, or any special processes unique to the location.
Why it matters: By following pharmacy procedures, you show respect for their operations and policies. This attention to detail builds trust, and pharmacies will rate you highly for your adaptability and adherence to their standards.
# 5. Do Stay Focused and Minimize Distractions
When on duty, your full attention should be on the job. Focus on accurately dispensing medications, assisting patients, and collaborating with the pharmacy team. Keep personal distractions, such as mobile phones, to a minimum unless it’s an emergency. This shows professionalism and ensures you remain attentive to the details that matter most in providing quality patient care.
Why it matters: Focusing on the job and minimizing distractions demonstrates professionalism and commitment to patient care. In a fast-paced pharmacy environment, undivided attention ensures accuracy in dispensing and helps maintain the pharmacy’s efficiency. It also shows respect for the team and builds trust, enhancing your reputation as a reliable locum pharmacist.
Don’ts for Locum Pharmacists:
# 1. Don’t Ignore Feedback from the Team
If you receive constructive criticism or suggestions from the pharmacy staff, don’t dismiss it. Instead, listen, learn, and adjust where needed.
Why it matters: Ignoring feedback can create frustration and can lead to a poor reputation. Accepting feedback with an open mind shows that you’re committed to improving, making you a more desirable locum in the future.
# 2. Don’t Be Late or Leave Early Without Notice
We understand that emergencies happen, but showing up late without a valid reason or leaving early without informing your pharmacy manager can negatively impact your reputation.
Why it matters: Pharmacies rely on locum pharmacists to fill essential shifts, and when you’re late or leave early, it disrupts the entire operation. It can create unnecessary stress for the team, which results in poor feedback. Always inform the pharmacy in advance if you cannot make it to a shift or need to leave early.
# 3. Don’t Be Complacent with Your Professional Appearance
Your appearance should always reflect the level of professionalism expected from a pharmacist. Don’t neglect the dress code or personal hygiene, even when filling in for short shifts.
Why it matters: How you present yourself is the first impression you make on the pharmacy team and customers. A neat and professional appearance ensures that you are taken seriously and valued as a member of the team.
# 4. Don’t Overlook the Importance of Patient Confidentiality
Respecting patient confidentiality is a fundamental ethical practice for all healthcare professionals, and locum pharmacists are no exception.
Why it matters: Mishandling patient information can lead to serious legal consequences and damage your relationship with the pharmacy. Always ensure you adhere to privacy regulations and demonstrate the utmost respect for patient confidentiality.
# 5. Don’t Let Your Mobile Phone Distract You
Using your phone during your shift can disrupt workflow and lead to errors in dispensing or patient advice. It may also create a negative impression on staff and customers, reducing your credibility and professionalism.
Why it matters: Pharmacies rely on locums to integrate seamlessly into their operations. A distracted pharmacist can hinder the pharmacy’s efficiency and even compromise patient safety. By staying focused and avoiding unnecessary distractions, you demonstrate professionalism, build trust with the pharmacy team, and improve the likelihood of earning positive feedback and repeat bookings.
Final Thoughts:
The key to obtaining the best feedback and ratings is a combination of professionalism, clear communication, and a commitment to patient care. By following these dos and don’ts, locum pharmacists can leave a lasting positive impression, ensuring that pharmacies will continue to rely on you for future shifts.
As we start the new year, make a conscious effort to put these practices into action, and you will see the positive feedback and reviews roll in. A great reputation as a locum pharmacist leads to more opportunities, better pay, and greater job satisfaction.
Are you ready to start 2025 on the right foot? Let’s make this year a fantastic one for both locums and pharmacies!