Summer is an exciting time! The flowers are blooming, and there are feelings of embarking on new beginnings. Whether you are new to the pharmacy profession or a seasoned technician looking to take on a more advanced role, there are a variety of skills you can start cultivating to help you achieve your goals.
- Get Involved. Become a member of a committee at your place of employment or join a professional pharmacy association like ASHP. Being around like-minded people is a great way to learn to walk the walk and talk the talk. Involvement can also be as simple as attending continuing education events or volunteering for drives for a cause.
- Find a Mentor. Having someone who supports your ambition to grow is a valuable asset as you work to develop your professional network and highlight your skills. Even a simple conversation with a lead technician can open opportunities for advancement.
- Exhibit Your Skills. Becoming a subject matter expert in your day-to-day work can speak volumes when it comes time to train newer technicians. Always be open to sharing your expertise. A lot of the incredible work we do as technicians is passed down over the years. You may even want to consider formally presenting your knowledge at a conference or other event.
- Stay Hungry. Never stop learning! While years of work experience are extremely valuable, they may not be enough to help you obtain more advanced roles. For example, you can attend leadership courses offered through ASHP’s Pharmacy Leadership Academy or obtain additional certification through PTCB’s advanced learning tracks. Your employer may even offer tuition assistance to help you advance your career.
These skills have helped me advance my career from a front-line technician to a leader on several pharmacy teams, and I share this guidance with anyone seeking to grow and cultivate their career!