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When most people think of a pharmacist, they picture someone behind the counter counting pills, labeling bottles, and ringing up prescriptions. And while accuracy and efficiency are definitely part of the job, the truth is this:
A great pharmacist is so much more than a dispenser of medication.
At People & Pets Pharmacy, we believe a pharmacist is a healthcare guide, a problem-solver, a steady hand in stressful moments, and often the person who helps someone finally feel confident about their care plan. And because we serve both people and pets, that responsibility becomes even more personal—because our patients are families, and their animals are family too.
That’s why we don’t just look for any pharmacist (or pharmacy team member). We look for a special kind of person.
In this blog, we’re sharing what makes a good pharmacist—and why we’re so intentional about who we bring onto our team.
One of the most overlooked skills in pharmacy is listening.
People don’t always walk in with a clear question. They walk in with a feeling:
“I’m overwhelmed.”
“I’m confused about what I’m taking.”
“My pet won’t take this medication.”
“I don’t know what to do next.”
“I’m worried about side effects.”
“I’ve had bad experiences in the past.”
A good pharmacist listens for what’s being said and what’s being felt underneath it.
They take the time to ask follow-up questions, clarify instructions, and make sure the patient truly understands—not just in theory, but in real life. Because the best pharmacy care doesn’t start with a bottle. It starts with trust.
Healthcare can be intimidating, and a lot of people leave medical visits with unanswered questions.
A great pharmacist closes the gap between medical language and real-world understanding.
That means explaining things like:
What the medication is for
How and when to take it
What to avoid while taking it
Common side effects to watch for
What to do if a dose is missed
When to call the doctor or veterinarian
But the key is how it’s explained.
At People & Pets, we value communication that is:
clear
kind
un-rushed
judgment-free
Because nobody should feel embarrassed for asking questions about their health—or their pet’s health.
Of course, accuracy is critical. Pharmacy is one of those professions where small mistakes can have big consequences. A good pharmacist is focused, careful, and consistent.
But details go beyond counting pills correctly.
A great pharmacist also pays attention to the details of the patient’s life, such as:
allergies and sensitivities
past medication reactions
dosing timing for busy schedules
taste preferences for children or pets
insurance challenges and affordability concerns
when a patient just seems “off” or unsure
These details help the pharmacist customize guidance, offer alternatives, and prevent avoidable problems.
One of the biggest differences between an average pharmacy experience and a great one is whether the pharmacist says:
“Sorry, we don’t have it.”
Or…
“Let’s find a solution.”
At People & Pets Pharmacy, we want problem-solvers.
Because healthcare isn’t always clean and simple. There are backorders. There are insurance rejections. There are medications that aren’t available in the right form. There are pets that refuse tablets. There are children who can’t swallow pills. There are patients who need custom dosing.
A great pharmacist doesn’t stop at the obstacle. They look for the next best step.
That might mean:
finding an alternative medication option (with provider approval)
coordinating with a prescriber for a different strength or format
suggesting a compliance-friendly approach
helping a patient transfer prescriptions for easier refill management
exploring compounding solutions for unique needs
This kind of persistence is what creates real value for patients.
The best pharmacists don’t treat people like “orders.”
They treat them like neighbors.
Pharmacy is one of the few healthcare touchpoints where people regularly interact with a professional week after week, month after month. That consistency matters. Over time, a pharmacist becomes part of a person’s support system.
That’s why compassion is one of the strongest clinical tools a pharmacist can have.
A patient may not remember every word you said about their medication—but they will remember:
whether they felt cared for
whether someone took them seriously
whether they were rushed or respected
whether someone helped them feel confident
This matters even more in moments when people feel anxious, sick, or overwhelmed.
A huge challenge people face today is affordability.
Some patients are forced to choose between medications and groceries. Some pet owners are trying to do the right thing while juggling vet bills, food costs, and life expenses.
At People & Pets Pharmacy, we believe a good pharmacist understands this and does everything possible to help patients navigate cost responsibly.
That can include:
explaining generic vs brand options
checking for better-value alternatives
helping patients understand what insurance will cover
recommending cost-effective OTC solutions when appropriate
working with prescribers when changes are needed
Being financially aware isn’t about “selling cheap.” It’s about helping people stay consistent with their care without breaking the bank.
Pharmacy gets busy. Phones ring. Scripts pile up. People are waiting. Insurance issues pop up unexpectedly. A patient may come in emotional or frustrated.
A good pharmacist doesn’t let that pressure turn into impatience.
They stay steady, and they stay kind.
That calm presence makes patients feel safe. It also makes the team stronger, because leadership in pharmacy is often demonstrated in the busiest moments.
Working with pet medications adds a different layer of care.
Our pharmacy team needs to understand the emotional reality that comes with veterinary prescriptions. People aren’t just asking about a medication—they’re worried about their companion, their family member, their best friend.
We also work closely with veterinarians and pet owners to support things like:
precise dosing needs
medication palatability and administration
ongoing refills for chronic conditions
timely medication access when a pet needs it fast
This requires a team member who is:
patient
adaptable
kind
confident communicating with both pet owners and clinics
Because the stakes feel personal—and they are.
So what does People & Pets Pharmacy look for when hiring?
We look for someone who:
✅ Treats every customer like they matter
✅ Communicates with kindness and clarity
✅ Cares about precision and safety
✅ Has a natural problem-solving mindset
✅ Takes pride in being helpful—not hurried
✅ Enjoys learning and improving
✅ Works well with a team
✅ Feels called to serve the community
We can teach systems. We can train workflows. We can support clinical learning.
But we can’t teach heart.
We look for people who genuinely want to be the kind of professional they’d want caring for their own family.
Independent pharmacies succeed because of relationships.
People come back because they trust the team. They recognize familiar faces. They appreciate being remembered. They feel comfortable asking questions. They know someone will help them without judgment.
That doesn’t happen by accident.
It happens when the right people are in the right roles—people who care deeply, show up consistently, and treat every interaction as important.
At People & Pets Pharmacy, we want the pharmacy experience to feel different the moment you walk through the door.
That “difference” is our team.
A good pharmacist fills prescriptions accurately.
A great pharmacist changes outcomes.
Sometimes it looks like helping someone finally understand their medication routine. Sometimes it looks like catching a potential interaction. Sometimes it looks like making a pet’s medication easier to give. Sometimes it looks like taking 60 seconds to be kind in a moment when someone really needs it.
That’s the type of pharmacy care we believe in.
And it’s the type of person we want on our team.
If you’re a pharmacist or pharmacy team member who believes healthcare should feel personal again—if you’re the kind of person who loves helping, teaching, and solving problems—People & Pets Pharmacy may be the right place for you.
We’re always looking to connect with passionate, service-minded people who want to grow with a pharmacy that truly puts people (and pets) first.
📍 People & Pets Pharmacy — Brighton, MI
A better pharmacy experience, built on better people.
