Professional Networking for Pharmacists

Five Ways to Network with Pharmacy Professionals

While we are still in recovery from the recent recession it’s important to stay on top of your game.   In Columbus, Ohio Kroger’s recently laid off ninety part-time pharmacists, more than 100 pharmacies went out of business in 2010 leaving more than 300 pharmacists looking for new jobs.  No matter how secure you are in your current position, networking with other pharmacy professionals is always a good idea and here are five easy ways to do that.

Join your state or local pharmacy association.   Having a membership isn’t enough.  Many pharmacy associations have conferences, parties and other events throughout the year.  Make sure you go to one or two of these events each year to meet new acquaintances in your industry.   The contacts you make today could be a helping hand in landing your next position!

Volunteer.   There are numerous opportunities for pharmacists to volunteer including the American Red Cross, Health Reach and even local free-clinics that provide health care services for the needy.    Volunteer positions look great on a resume.  If you are considering a career transition into a new industry a volunteer position gives you the experience employers are looking for in that industry.

Check out your Alumni association.  Most pharmacy schools have resources for their graduates and Alumni associations.   Go to a class reunion and get reacquainted with former colleagues.   Attending Alumni events is also a great way to get introduced to pharmacy professionals who graduated before or after your time who might be key decision makers in hiring new pharmacists for their company.

Use Social Networking.  Facebook and Myspace makes it easy to find colleagues you went to school with.   Make sure you add them as friends and that you are posting to your accounts.   This creates a sense of keeping in touch with them and makes old friends feel like they still know you.

Stay In Touch.  Be sure to send holiday greeting cards to old bosses, colleagues and other pharmacy professionals.    Keep a calendar of birthdays and anniversaries and send a card out when the time approaches.

With many companies having several pharmacy candidates applying for their openings, networking is going to be crucial in helping you land your next career if you should ever have a reason to do so.  By networking when you are not looking for a position you have a leg-up when it comes time to finding a new position.