Recently we published a blog that centred around how many of our locums balance locum work alongside full-time employment. This is an incredibly attractive option as in many ways you get the best of both worlds. However, more often we are finding that pharmacists have begun opting for locum work instead of full-time employment.
Often there is a misconception that full-time locum work is primarily for newly qualified pharmacists who haven’t settled yet and yes there is an element of truth to that. Often newly qualified pharmacists choose to locum for a few months or years to help build their skill set and gain confidence in their position. However, recently we have noticed an increase in longtime pharmacists opting to leave full-time employment to pursue locum work.
We reached out to our Facebook Community members and asked them why they decided to make the transition.
Nicola:
Nicola began locuming in 2008, after experiencing full-time community work with its challenging 50hr work weeks she decided to make the move to becoming a full-time locum. Here’s what she has to say about what motivated her to make the move: > “For me the flexibility, not being limited on when I can have a holiday. Choosing where and when I work. Which now I have a young family is vital.”
Naveed: Naveed previously worked in the role of pharmacy manager for 3 large chains, however, decided to make the move to locum full-time last year in order to enjoy the freedom locum work provides. Here’s what he had to say: > “Since then I am enjoying my freedom, less pressure, responsible for the day at work and can switch off my brain after leaving hand over notes for next day's pharmacist. On top, I can pick and choose the days and times to work. More fun time with family.”
Veronica: Veronica has been locuming long-term for over 8 years now however primarily she locumed for one company. More recently she has begun to take advantage of locuming and the travel opportunities that come with it: > “Recently I have been locuming and travelling, I love the freedom and making a holiday out of it.”
Matt: Despite being nervous about making the switch from full-time to locum, Matt says it’s the best choice he’s made! > “As well as the flexibility, I've made so many new friends and connections, I've had time to develop new skills, apply and refresh learning that was not used in my old job, you will surprise yourself at how well you transfer your skills.”
Are you ready to make the switch? Sign Up to Locate a Locum today and get access to our team of experts who will help you in your locuming journey!