Thinking about networking, but not sure where to start? You are in the right place! Read this article by clinical pharmacist, Hala Jawad where she talks about the importance of networking and how that opened various career opportunities for her..

I graduated in 2011 from the University of Brighton, which provided a warm and friendly atmosphere to study and I felt supported. This feeling continued even after graduation to such an extent that I was described as a ’Brighton Titan’ for my promotion of the University!

I have had a very varied pharmacy career to date, in both primary care and community pharmacy. Some of these roles have been the traditional ones, but increasingly they have become less so. I was fortunate enough to become a clinical pharmacist at an early stage, working in a GP surgery and helping with various clinics. This was very stimulating and enabled me to demonstrate the importance of the role of pharmacists in the broader healthcare team. It has been a long time coming, but I finally feel that pharmacists are now recognised as a key part of the healthcare team through their clinical involvement, and as new pharmacists, I am confident you will build on this!

Networking has definitely helped my career, by opening several doors for me. But this is not the only reason why you should network. You can learn a tremendous amount from people in your network, such as the latest developments in healthcare, job prospects and even mentoring opportunities, to name a few. I still continue to be involved in social media, live broadcasting, and video blogging, which are excellent ways to keep in touch with your peers, especially in difficult times like the one the world has experienced recently. An example of networking is when I set up the askhala.com website, which was an extension of my passionate desire to help people and I know this passion is something that all pharmacists have in common. Also, we all lead busy lives so, easy access to professional and accurate advice is a must.

I have also been a Pharmacists’ Defence Association (PDA) member since graduation. In the last two years, in addition to working at Boots, I have also been a PDA Union representative, enabling me to help colleagues who need support at difficult times in their lives. I feel that my position, along with my colleagues’, provides an opportunity to help make positive changes in the pharmacy profession. The PDA is a great organisation and can help you at every stage of your careers, so I encourage you to join.

The employment opportunities you get as pharmacy graduates is huge and you will have a variety of options. I recommend you explore your networks and use every opportunity they provide to get the most from your career. Finally, believe in yourself, understand your worth, and remember to have fun along the way. You are about to embark on a fascinating career! I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

Do you have an idea for an article that you would like to share with fellow BPSA members? Fill in this form and we will be in touch with you!