The medical sales arena is the top-tier of sales positions in the workforce. Because the area is so varied, exciting, and lucrative, many, many candidates are vying for those jobs. So, if you want to land a job in medical sales, you’re going to have to bring your “A” game.
Every point-of-contact with a medical sales hiring manager (or the HR department) is a make-or-break one. Each one is a “weeding” opportunity for them: your resume, your cover letter, your online presence, your phone interview, and your first interview. They’re looking for a reason to throw your name out and narrow down the field to make their jobs easier.
In response to that, the smart candidate will prepare, refine their job search and interview techniques, and give it all they’ve got. But there’s one other trick you could have up your sleeve: your own personal interview coach.
Why an interview coach? Well, the best-of-the-best are competing for these jobs. Think of it like the Olympics (the job interview competition). Yes, Olympic athletes have talent, but what else do they have? They have excellent coaches who fine-tune their skills and get from them that extra few seconds that make the difference between a really talented athlete and an Olympic champion.
How does that translate into your job search? A really great interview coach will
• take into account your individual history and talents and show you how to shape them into job-winners for you.
• customize your resume and 30/60/90-day plan.
• help you construct compelling, individualized answers to standard interview questions so that you’ll stand out in a big way.
• help you figure out what makes you unique in the job market.
• help you improve your closing skills so that you can ask for the job (a critical skill).
• show you how to negotiate your job offer.
The real beauty of individualized interview coaching is that it’s customized. It’s whatever you need it to be. You’ll discuss that with your coach, who can also point out things you weren’t even aware of.
What are the biggest things to keep in mind? Find a coach who’s an expert in your field, who knows what the hiring managers in it are looking for, and who is excited to be on your team. Make sure you’re comfortable working with your coach, too.
It’s difficult to get a job in medical sales, but it’s not impossible. Find a coach who can help you reach your goals.
Peggy McKee has over 15 years of experience in laboratory sales, sales management, and medical sales recruiting. See her blog at => http://www.phcconsulting.com/WordPress for advice and tips for medical sales reps.
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