Sample Measurement of Satisfaction with a Professional Industry Coaching Service

The interest in pursuing a professional career in pharma continues to increase, as many pharmacists are not satisfied with the practice that they are currently employed in. Additionally, there is growing interest by student pharmacists who are being exposed to industry through rotations, electives, and internships. This has resulted in a significant increase in pharmacy graduates seeking to pursue industry as a career. Unfortunately, this has resulted in steep competition among candidates especially for entry- level positions and fellowships within industry. To support this growing need, IPhO launched a career coaching service for its members.

Lauren Bartolome, a University of Florida PharmD Candidate and IPhO Chapter President participated in an IPhO internship and collaborated with Jerry Silverman, VP Professional Development and Coaching to measure satisfaction among a sampling of participants utilizing this coaching service.

Methods

A ten-question survey was developed to measure overall participant’s satisfaction including: assistance in customizing their CV/resume, identifying their strengths and weaknesses, providing honest feedback and practical guidance, and participant determination of cost-effectiveness. The coaching service is available in time increments of 45 minutes each and respondents purchased on average three credits.

Results

The vast majority of candidates (73%) sought coaching to customize their CV/resume for industry. All respondents stated that they were satisfied or very satisfied with the IPhO Coaching Service. When respondents were asked whether they would be likely to recommend this coaching service to a friend or colleague; 91% responded very likely or likely.

IPhO is very pleased with the consistent feedback and ongoing demand for its coaching service to date. Based on the participant’s rating of satisfaction, referral, and cost-effectiveness, the IPhO Coaching Service looks like it is on the right track in providing this important service.

For more detailed information concerning this research study and to view the published poster, please visit IPhO Scholarly Publications

Authored by Lauren Bartolome, PharmD Candidate, Class of 2017, University of Florida