As a pharmacy technician, you have a valuable skill set that is in demand across the country. But have you ever considered taking your career on the road? Traveling pharmacy technicians, also known as locum tenens pharmacy technicians, fill temporary positions in pharmacies, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities, often in new and exciting locations. In this article, we'll explore five ways to thrive as a traveling pharmacy tech, from building a strong professional network to staying organized on the go.
1. Build a Strong Professional Network
As a traveling pharmacy tech, your professional network is crucial to finding job opportunities and getting recommendations. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with other pharmacy technicians and pharmacists on LinkedIn. Building relationships with recruiters and hiring managers can also help you stay informed about job openings and get tips on the best places to work.
Benefits of Networking
- Get recommendations from colleagues and supervisors
- Learn about job openings before they're advertised publicly
- Stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices
- Gain access to exclusive job opportunities
2. Stay Organized on the Go
As a traveling pharmacy tech, you'll be constantly on the move, working in new locations and adapting to new systems and procedures. Staying organized is essential to succeeding in this role. Invest in a good planner or use a digital calendar to keep track of your schedule, deadlines, and important contacts. Make sure you have all the necessary documents and certifications with you at all times, and consider investing in a portable scanner or cloud storage service to keep your files safe and accessible.
Tools for Staying Organized
- Planners and digital calendars
- Portable scanners and cloud storage services
- Travel-sized document holders and organizers
- Apps for tracking expenses and mileage
3. Be Flexible and Adaptable
As a traveling pharmacy tech, you'll be working in new and unfamiliar environments, often with different systems and procedures. Being flexible and adaptable is essential to succeeding in this role. Be open to learning new skills and taking on new challenges, and don't be afraid to ask questions or seek help when you need it.
Benefits of Being Flexible
- Increased job satisfaction and engagement
- Improved relationships with colleagues and supervisors
- Greater sense of confidence and self-efficacy
- Increased opportunities for career advancement
4. Take Care of Your Physical and Mental Health
As a traveling pharmacy tech, you'll be constantly on the move, working long hours and dealing with stressful situations. Taking care of your physical and mental health is essential to maintaining your well-being and performing at your best. Make sure to get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, and engage in regular exercise. Consider investing in a mindfulness or meditation app to help manage stress and anxiety.
Self-Care Tips for Traveling Pharmacy Techs
- Get enough sleep and maintain a healthy diet
- Engage in regular exercise and physical activity
- Practice mindfulness and meditation to manage stress and anxiety
- Stay connected with friends and family through regular phone calls and video chats
5. Continuously Update Your Skills and Knowledge
As a traveling pharmacy tech, you'll be working in new and unfamiliar environments, often with different systems and procedures. Continuously updating your skills and knowledge is essential to staying competitive and performing at your best. Consider taking online courses or attending industry events to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices.
Ways to Update Your Skills and Knowledge
- Take online courses or certification programs
- Attend industry events and conferences
- Read industry publications and blogs
- Participate in online forums and discussion groups
What are the benefits of being a traveling pharmacy tech?
+Benefits of being a traveling pharmacy tech include increased job satisfaction and engagement, improved relationships with colleagues and supervisors, and greater opportunities for career advancement.
How do I stay organized as a traveling pharmacy tech?
+Staying organized as a traveling pharmacy tech involves using tools such as planners and digital calendars, portable scanners and cloud storage services, and travel-sized document holders and organizers.
What are some tips for continuously updating my skills and knowledge as a traveling pharmacy tech?
+Tips for continuously updating your skills and knowledge as a traveling pharmacy tech include taking online courses or certification programs, attending industry events and conferences, reading industry publications and blogs, and participating in online forums and discussion groups.
As a traveling pharmacy tech, you have the opportunity to see new places, meet new people, and advance your career in a field that is in high demand. By building a strong professional network, staying organized on the go, being flexible and adaptable, taking care of your physical and mental health, and continuously updating your skills and knowledge, you can thrive in this exciting and rewarding career.