Having the Right Mindset for ASHP Midyear
Killing it at Midyear is all about having the right mindset and attitude. This is the largest pharmacy conference and professional meetup for pharmacists in the United States. Do not let the large size intimidate you! Go in with the mindset of success and watch all the opportunities unfold before you.
First, Mindset Check:
- What are your goals?
- Who did you come to see?
- What do you plan to accomplish?
- Do you have a support system in place?
- How's that elevator speech?
- Can you tell me about yourself with confidence?
Set an Intention or Goal
If you had any difficulty with the questions above, do NOT worry. The great thing is that we can identify some weaknesses and strengthen them now before you are face to face with a program director or interviewer. First, identify your goal for midyear. Why are you there? Is this to network, land your dream residency or fellowship? Meditate on your why for a brief moment. Once you have realized your goal for Midyear then backwards plan to make it happen.
For example, my goal is to get a fellowship with CompoundThis! Now to backward plan here are some things that I may do:
- Research the company, program director, and current fellow
- Reach out to them prior to Midyear to introduce myself
- Add them on LinkedIn
- Join live calls where they speak about the program
- Send an email with specific questions about the program
- Sign up for PPS and apply within
- Make sure my CV highlights the position requirements
- Speak confidently with examples on why I'd be the best candidate for the position
- Attend any sessions or poster presentations where the director or current fellow are speaking and be engaged
- Follow up with a thankyou note or email
This is how you put yourself out there in front of a director multiple times before midyear even begins. By the time you finally meet in person you have spoken a few times and it will be less intimidating. Also, this will let you see if this program is truly a good fit for you as well.
Identify Your Support System
This is so important! Who will be your roommate during Midyear? I recommend having a roommate to help split costs and to keep everything affordable. Remember, you want to save as much money during this time because in a few months you may be flying to all of the on-site interviews because you nailed it at Midyear!
Your roommate can be another classmate. If so, make sure you have equal goals in mind so that you can both be of support to each other. The best roommate can help you practice your elevator speech or go over interview questions with you as well. If you can’t find a classmate, your roomie could also be your favorite cousin, bestie, mother, or anyone who supports your dreams and ultimate goals.
I’ve attended so many conferences where I had a family member or friend tag along. Having a loving and familiar face during this time is the ultimate confidence boost. They understood that I was there for business and were able to practice with me or take my mind off of the conference for a moment to enjoy a new city. Identify your support system and let them in on the plan.
Tell Me About Yourself
Can you tell me about yourself confidently? It seems so simple but this question kind of stumps people. Most people call it the elevator speech or pitch whichever you prefer; work on it and use it to introduce yourself to the world. When I tell people about myself these are some of the points I like to include:
- Name and what you do
- Where you are from
- Reason for being there
- A fun fact about yourself (if appropriate)
- Your goal(s)
It may seem a little awkward at first but the more you practice, speak to others, and engage in conversations it will feel more natural. For example:
Greetings, my name is Amber. I am a veteran, pharmacy student, and blogger. I was raised all over the United States but Philadelphia is where I call home. I am here today to network with other like minded people and to find a program that will help me reach my goal of becoming a specialized pharmacist.
Your elevator speech will vary depending on your audience but the basic key points will set the foundation. I like to say my hometown or school because you never know who you may connect with just from sharing this info.
Put Your Best Foot Forward
Now that we have discussed mindset, goals, and how to introduce yourself like a boss; you are ready for midyear! If you would like some more advice for what to expect upon arrival drop some questions below and stay tuned for more resources.
This post is dedicated to Ann Elder my forever cheerleader, thank you.
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