Every wonder how to take your locum work to the next level? Or maybe you've decided 2023 is your year to start locumming. Either way we have combined our top tips on how to succeed as a locum in 2023.
Make use of social media
In today's digital age, it is impossible to ignore the impact social media can have on every aspect of a person’s life - including boosting your career. Social media channels are a great way to connect with other pharmacy professionals. We have spoke about how LinkedIn can be an incredible tool for Pharmacy professionals in networking, but it can also be a great place to find locum work in the job postings section. Recently, we have also seen the rise of influencers in the pharmacy space on Instagram and TikTok. Many of these influencers are industry professionals and share their career journey. By following some of these influencers you can gain some useful tips and tricks in how to make the most of your career. This can be particularly useful if you are just starting out!
Build your network
Networking is a powerful tool for finding locum work. By attending industry conferences, events, and webinars you have opportunity to connect with other phramcaists and potential employers. Join professional associations and organizations, as they often have job boards and resources specifically for locum professionals. Also, consider reaching out to former colleagues and supervisors who may have connections as they may be able to help you get locum work. Pharmacy in the UK is a small world - you never know what old classmates are up to or when you may cross paths with old colleagues again so it is important to maintain these relationships. Personal referrals are often a valuable way to secure work - we find locums who have strong references on their profile win more shifts.
Work with Top Locum Platforms
Over the past number of years many platforms have launched which help make finding locum work easier. App-based platforms locum platforms, such as Locate a Locum, are most popular for helping find locum work. They enable you to find and book shifts all via the convenience of your mobile phone. Locate a Locum work with over 10,000 pharmacies across the UK and have a network of over 30,000 locums using Locate a Locum as means for finding their locum work. As well as the app, Locate a Locum has a team of in-house Locum Success Consultants that can help throughout your locum journey from getting started, registering with various pharmacies and helping you find and book locums shifts. There are also traditional locum agencies that are companies that specialise in connecting healthcare professionals with temporary or contract work. They work with pharmacies to fill short-term staffing needs. Be sure to research and compare different locum agencies and platforms to find one that meets your needs and offers fair compensation.
Be flexible and adaptable
Our locums regularly tell us that their favourite aspect of locum work is how flexible and adaptable it is. You can work when and where you want, as often as you want. As a locum healthcare professional, taking advantage of this flexibility is key to your success as a locum. This means being open to different types of work and locations, as well as being able to quickly adjust to new environments and routines. Often earning potential is greater in more remote area. So if you live in inner city being open to travelling outside your immediate area can be a way to boost your earning potential. This can be beneficial if you are interested in travelling also, as some pharmacies offer “stay-away” opportunities where you can be paid to travel to a shift (even get your travel and accommodation costs covered - did someone say free holiday?) The more adaptable you are, the more opportunities you'll have to find work.
Maintain your credentials and skills
To stay competitive in the locum market, it's important to maintain your credentials and skills. You would be surprised at how many locums lose out on shifts because they haven’t renewed key accreditations such as their insurance or police check. Keep your certifications up-to-date and participate in continuing education courses to stay current with the latest developments in your field. This will help you stand out to potential employers and increase your chances of getting hired. Also, as a pharmacy professional it is essential you keep your finger on the pulse in updates and changes in the industry. Therefore, it may be an idea to subscribe to different industry newsletters/news sources to keep up to date on the industry.
In conclusion, finding locum work in 2023 requires a combination of online resources, networking, flexibility, and continuous learning. By following these strategies, you can increase your chances of finding fulfilling and rewarding locum opportunities.