by Dave Wendland During a recent series of Continuing Education (CE) programs focused on the retail aspects of a drugstore operation, I challenged participants to think of the “guests” they are inviting to their store no differently than planning a party at their home. Here’s the process. The guest list. One of the first steps … Read More
72. Ask a friend what you could do to improve
By Angela Pinkstaff for our “99 Ways to Make a Positive Difference in Your Pharmacy” blog series When it comes to the company I keep, like most people, I try to surround myself with friends who have far more talent than I do. Observing how they hone their work ethics, skill sets and perspectives is a constant source of … Read More
10 Numbers to Know
Written by and published in Elements magazine, June 25, 2014 About 23,000 independent pharmacies are in business today. Despite pressure from mail order, third party reimbursements and brick-and-mortar competition, that number hasn’t changed significantly in recent years. What is changing is how independents do business. Take a look at the trends in independent pharmacy … Read More
13. Develop a customer profile
By Julie Bonnell for our “99 Ways to Make a Positive Difference in Your Pharmacy” blog series The better you know your customer the better you can customize your products and services to gain and retain business. Here is one easy way to gain insight into your customers: At the checkout, affix a large map of the community you … Read More
10. Independent Pharmacies and Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs
Your Future’s So Bright You Gotta Wear (Lamp) Shades By Tom Y. for our “99 Ways to Make a Positive Difference in Your Pharmacy” blog series So your independent pharmacy has done an amazing job of keeping your customers out of the dark by utilizing the best-in-industry merchandising and pricing intelligence – powered by HRG. Merchandising, pricing, and your customers … Read More
For every season
By Kyle Lentz For many people, the transition from winter to spring is a joyous occasion. For others, it’s the start of three months of agony with sneezing; coughing; itchy, watery eyes; sinus pain; runny nose or unbearable congestion. Yes, it’s “allergy season” again folks, so bear down as your coworker stuffs tissue up her … Read More
35. Answer the phone professionally
By Barb G. for our “99 Ways to Make a Positive Difference in Your Pharmacy” blog series How do you create a consistent and positive impression when your customers call? By answering the phone professionally. First, answering the phone within three rings shows your customer you are respectful of their time. Create a tag line to be used by … Read More
18. Delegate responsibility
By Mary Hart for our “99 Ways to Make a Positive Difference in Your Pharmacy” blog series Delegate responsibility responsibly! Have you used any of these excuses to NOT delegate work? I can do it better myself. I don’t know if I can trust her to do it. He isn’t qualified to do it. She doesn’t want any added responsibilities. … Read More
The professional pharmacist
By Dave Wendland Recent legislation enacted in California and the current movement within Washington, DC is moving the pharmacist closer and closer to becoming appropriately recognized as a “healthcare professional.” “But wait, Dave, everyone knows they are healthcare professionals. They are the most accessible, trusted, and well-educated among others that operate in the healthcare continuum.” … Read More
A new tool for your business
Posted by Megan Moyer I’m excited to direct your attention to a new e-book from Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Inc. that we authored, that offers ideas and actions you can take to boost your business. The e-book is titled “Community Pharmacy: Foundation for the Future,” and it is a 30-page guide to improving your marketing strategies and some of … Read More