Pharmacies can attract more locum pharmacists by offering competitive pay rates and being organised in their scheduling and planning. Here are some ways that rate negotiation and better planning can help pharmacies attract more locum pharmacists:
Understand the live market rate: Offering competitive pay rates is crucial in attracting locum pharmacists. By understanding market rates and offering rates that are at the market rate sweet spot or higher, pharmacies can attract more compliant and experienced locum pharmacists. Negotiating rates with locum pharmacists can also be a way to reach a mutually beneficial agreement.
Be organised in scheduling: Locum pharmacists value reliable and organised employers who plan their shifts in advance. Posting shifts up to twelve weeks in advance can help increase your shift fill rate by up to 70%.
By having a clear schedule with shift details and expectations, pharmacies can attract more locum pharmacists who are seeking organised and predictable work opportunities. Providing information on what the job entails, such as the types of prescriptions, specialist private services, and patient demographics, can also help attract the right candidates.
Be flexible: While planning ahead is important, being flexible in accommodating locum pharmacists' schedules can also attract more candidates. Offering shifts that fit into their availability can be a way to attract and retain good candidates. Providing options such as short or long-term shift blocks.
Build a good reputation: A pharmacy with a good reputation in the industry is more likely to attract locum pharmacists. By treating locum pharmacists with respect, providing clear communication, and offering a positive work environment, pharmacies can build a good reputation that will attract more candidates. Don’t forget to highlight the unique selling points of your pharmacy, in a recent survey commissioned by Locate a Locum, pharmacists said they would be five times more likely to work in a pharmacy with free parking over one without.
In summary, understanding market rates, being organised in scheduling, being flexible, and building a good reputation can help pharmacies attract more locum pharmacists. By implementing these strategies, pharmacies can find and retain qualified locum pharmacists who will provide excellent patient care and contribute to the success of the pharmacy.