Advice for Retail Pharmacists Eyeing Clinical Roles

If you’re a retail pharmacist contemplating a transition to a clinical role, you’re not alone. Many pharmacists in chain and community settings are looking for more autonomy, deeper patient engagement, and the professional fulfillment that clinical pharmacy roles can offer. But how do you make that leap when most clinical positions require experience you don’t yet have? According to pharmacy recruiter Jana Rugg, the key lies in knowing how to position yourself, build credibility, and make intentional moves toward your goal.

Reframe Your Experience—Don’t Undersell It
“Retail pharmacists often underestimate how relevant their experience is,” says Rugg. “Just because you haven’t worked in a hospital doesn’t mean you don’t have clinical skills.” Patient counseling, medication therapy management (MTM), immunizations, and navigating insurance issues are all valuable in clinical settings. Rugg advises candidates to highlight these transferable skills prominently on their resume and during interviews. “Reframe your retail experience using the language of clinical pharmacy,” she says. “Show how you’ve solved medication problems, collaborated with providers, or improved adherence.”

Get Serious About Continuing EducationOne of the clearest signals of clinical commitment is investing in additional training. Rugg recommends starting with certifications like APhA’s MTM certification, the Board Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist (BCPS) credential, or courses in anticoagulation, diabetes management, or pharmacokinetics. “Even if you're not eligible to sit for board certification yet, demonstrating that you’re taking steps to build clinical competency goes a long way with hiring managers,” she explains. These credentials not only boost your confidence—they show future employers that you’re already working at the clinical level.

Start Where You Are: Leverage Hybrid or Transitional RolesIf you're not ready—or able—to jump straight into a hospital or specialty role, consider bridge positions. “Look for hybrid roles in outpatient clinics, long-term care pharmacies, infusion centers, or transitions-of-care teams,” Rugg suggests. “These allow you to work in more clinical capacities while still drawing on your retail background.” Some health systems also offer internal training programs for pharmacists willing to work their way into clinical posts. According to Rugg, flexibility and a willingness to take a step sideways (not always up) can dramatically increase your chances of breaking in.
Another smart entry point? Apply for Per Diem or PRN shifts at a hospital or clinical facility. “If you’re willing to take a weekend, evening, or overnight shift, you're much more likely to find an employer who’s open to training and giving you a chance,” says Rugg. These roles may not be glamorous, but they offer hands-on experience, access to clinical workflows, and a foot in the door that can lead to permanent opportunities.

Network Strategically and Ask for Informational InterviewsClinical pharmacy is a small world, and relationships matter. Rugg strongly recommends reaching out to clinical pharmacists on LinkedIn or through alumni networks for informational interviews. “Don’t just ask for a job—ask for insight,” she says. “Most people are happy to share how they got into their role, what they look for in colleagues, or even let you shadow for a day.” Attending pharmacy association events or joining specialty groups (like AMCP or ASHP) can also help you build connections that lead to opportunities. As Rugg puts it: “Networking isn’t optional if you want to change lanes.”
Networking is another advantage of Per Diem or PRN shifts. They do more than simply provide hands-on experience—they expand your professional network within clinical settings. “The more people you meet and work with, the more visible and trusted you become,” says Rugg. “Those relationships often create lead to full-time opportunities and powerful recommendations.”

Work with a Recruiter Who Understands Clinical PharmacyFinally, Rugg emphasizes the importance of working with recruiters who specialize in pharmacy—not generalists. “We understand the nuances between different roles, and we can advocate for candidates coming from non-traditional backgrounds,” she says. A good recruiter can help you tailor your resume, prepare for clinical interviews, and identify employers willing to invest in a motivated pharmacist. Rugg encourages pharmacists to treat the recruiter relationship as a long-term partnership: “The earlier you reach out, the more we can help shape your trajectory.”

Want to Learn More?The transition from retail to clinical pharmacy isn’t instant—but it is absolutely achievable with the right approach. By reframing your experience, committing to education, pursuing transitional roles, networking strategically, and partnering with the right recruiter, you can open doors to a more fulfilling and impactful career. As Jana Rugg puts it, “Don’t let job titles limit your vision. Focus on the skills you bring—and the ones you’re willing to build.”
Interested in learning more about clinical pharmacy opportunities? Connect with Jana Rugg to explore your options and take the next step in your pharmacy career.