Building Bridges in Pharmacy

Hello, Future and Current Pharmacy Legends! 👋

Wow it’s August already! 😱

It was only the other day that we were celebrating the New Year!

PSA 24 is currently underway and all of the best of the best of pharmacy are coming together to talk about:

1) What is trending in Pharmacy in Australia

2) Where is pharmacy headed in the not too distant future!

This got me thinking!

Events like PSA, Pharmacy Connect or APP are such integral opportunities for not just seasoned pharmacy experts to touch base but is a fundamentally key moment for pharmacy students, interns and ECPs alike to really get their feet wet in the professional world of pharmacy!

Whether you're just starting your journey or are well on your way, building a strong professional network is crucial.

Let’s explore how you can enhance your networking skills and leverage connections to boost your career.

Why Networking Matters

Networking isn't just about collecting business cards or adding connections on LinkedIn.

It’s about building meaningful relationships that can open doors to new opportunities, provide support, and foster professional growth.

Here’s why networking is vital for pharmacy students and interns:

1. Career Opportunities: Many job openings are never advertised. Networking can help you discover these hidden opportunities.

2. Professional Growth: Engaging with experienced professionals allows you to learn from their experiences and gain valuable insights.

3. Support System: A strong network provides moral and professional support, which is essential in a demanding field like pharmacy.

In-Person Networking Examples

1. Professional Conferences and Seminars:

   • Attend industry-specific conferences such as the APP, PSA or Pharmacy Connect.

   • Engage in workshops, panel discussions, and social events to connect with industry leaders and peers.

2. University Events:

   • Participate in career fairs, alumni networking events, and guest lectures hosted by your pharmacy school.

   • These events are excellent opportunities to meet potential employers and mentors.

3. Pharmacy Organisations and Clubs:

   • Join and actively participate in local and national pharmacy organisations or student clubs.

   • Attend their meetings, networking events, and social gatherings to build relationships with fellow members.

4. Internship and Residency Programs:

   • Engage with your peers, preceptors, and supervisors during internships or residency programs.

   • We run Internship programs with many other likeminded pharmacy superstars! Reach out to me today to get started!

Online Networking Examples

1. LinkedIn:

   • Create a professional LinkedIn profile. Connect with classmates, professors, and professionals you meet at events.

   • Join pharmacy-related groups and participate in discussions. Share relevant articles and comment on posts to stay engaged.

2. Webinars and Virtual Conferences:

   • Attend virtual conferences, webinars, and online workshops.

   • These events often include networking sessions where you can interact with speakers and other attendees.

3. Alumni Networks:

   • Utilise your university’s online alumni network to connect with graduates who are now working in the pharmacy field.

   • Reach out for advice, mentorship, or potential job opportunities.

4. Online Courses and Workshops:

   • Enroll in online courses or workshops related to pharmacy.

   • These platforms often have discussion boards or networking features where you can interact with fellow participants.

In today’s competitive pharmacy landscape, networking is more than just a useful skill; it’s an essential component of career success.

By actively participating in both in-person and online networking opportunities, you can open doors to new opportunities, gain valuable insights, and build a supportive professional community.

Remember, networking is a two-way street—be generous with your time and knowledge, and others will do the same for you.

Ready to take your networking skills to the next level and launch your pharmacy career?

If you're eager to start building meaningful connections and want personalised guidance, our mentoring program is here to help.

Whether you need advice on where to begin, how to make impactful connections, or support in navigating your career path, we're here to assist you every step of the way.

Email us at [email protected] to get started with our mentoring program today.

Let’s work together to unlock your full potential and achieve your career goals.

Stay connected, stay inspired, and keep growing!

Warm regards,

Gus

Founder @ “PharmacyDownUnder”