Low Locum Optometry Shift Rates Are Our Own Damn Fault! Here's How We Can Stop Sabotaging Ourselves

In recent discussions, we've touched on the NHS and the stores. Now, it's time to confront the hardest truth: we are part of the problem.
If we find ourselves chronically underpaid, it might be due to a lack of market intelligence and the courage to negotiate. Here are the brutal factors within our control that are negatively affecting our rates:

1. We Are Prisoners of Comfort
   Many of us fear working in different places and exploring the entire market. What happens as a result? We become tethered to one company, allowing them to dictate our rate.
   By sacrificing massive earning potential to remain in our comfort zone, we willingly let ourselves be controlled when we could be free agents commanding more. It's time to break free and learn the market.
2. We are Divided and Unknowingly Sabotaging Each Other
   Our lack of unity and absence of a collective union means we're all acting independently, unknowingly undermining each other’s rates.
   New locums, especially, have historically had nowhere to turn (before resources like mine existed) and become easy targets for low offers. Our failure to move as a cohesive unit results in collective weakness, costing each of us money. Until we coordinate, we will remain easily conquered.
3. We Don't Understand the Art of Negotiation
   Adhering to the simple rule of "Urgency Equals Strong Negotiation" could cause our pay to skyrocket.
   We shouldn't book so far in advance or settle for the first number offered. Understand that when a store is desperate, their budget becomes flexible. It's time to stop being polite and start being strategic negotiators.
   Stop blaming external factors and take responsibility for our professional value.