“Being calm and prepared goes a long way”

Before I became a locum, I was working…

As a resident optometrist. During my previous role, I gained plenty of valuable experiences – but eventually felt I had achieved everything I could within that environment, and was ready for a new challenge.

When I started as a locum, I wish I had known…

The importance of planning and organisation when managing your diary and upcoming shifts. Scheduling work in advance and staying prepared can make a significant difference in maintaining a smooth and balanced workflow.

I realised this…

Quite early on, as I had to take responsibility for my own diary and staying on top of my schedule. Since becoming a locum, I’ve developed a solid system for staying organised, which helps me manage my time efficiently and avoid any scheduling issues.

The person who helped me as a locum was…

I was fortunate to have a great network of friends and colleagues, who provided support from the beginning. They gave me tips on how to book shifts, navigate new systems, and helped me adjust to the transition more smoothly.

I made the decision to become a locum because…

I wanted more flexibility and the opportunity to work in different environments. Locuming has allowed me to experience a wide range of practices and systems, which has broadened my skill set.

On my first day of locuming…

I was understandably nervous. Walking into a completely new practice without knowing the layout or how things work can be intimidating. Thankfully, the team were incredibly supportive and welcoming, which helped me settle in quickly. It was a positive first experience that I still remember, to this day.

My biggest locum challenge is…

While there can occasionally be some inconsistency, I’ve found that staying flexible and proactive makes a big difference. Locum work naturally comes with some uncertainty, but by planning and staying organised, I’m usually able to manage these changes smoothly.

Since becoming a locum, I’ve developed a solid system for staying organised

As a locum, I’ve adapted my days by…

Staying flexible and open-minded. I’ve learned to quickly assess how each practice operates and adapt accordingly. Being calm and prepared goes a long way in avoiding issues and providing the best care for patients.

Practices can make life easier for locums by…

Providing a locum information pack. Something simple that outlines key contacts, referral pathways, and general processes can make a big difference when walking into a new environment.

My favourite thing about being a locum is…

The flexibility. I can tailor my schedule to suit my life, take breaks when I need to, and enjoy a variety of different work environments. It has given me a great work-life balance.

My advice for new locums is…

Plan ahead and stay organised. Build a strong network, be intuitive and inquisitive, and don’t be afraid to reach out for help. Every practice is different, so being adaptable is key.

My last word on locuming is…

It’s a rewarding and eye-opening experience that offers professional growth and personal freedom. If you’re looking for variety and flexibility, it’s definitely worth considering.