Qualifications to Be a Drug Rep

Pharmaceutical sales representatives, casually referred to as drug reps, can have a lucrative career, with many earning more than $100,000 a year. Competition for these positions is fierce, and acquiring the best possible qualifications is important for obtaining a drug rep job.

Education

Pharmaceutical companies prefer to hire drug reps with at least a bachelor's degree, preferably in a science-oriented field. It is very difficult to obtain a job in pharmaceutical sales without a degree. Many companies require this degree as it can be an indicator as to how well someone will demonstrate ambition, follow-through, and ability to learn scientific information

Pharmaceutical Experience

Pharmacists, as well as pharmacy technicians who have gone on to earn at least a bachelor's degree, have a definite edge.

Sales Experience

Although sales experience is not necessary to become a drug rep, people with successful experience in direct commission sales are in demand for these positions, and may not be required to have a bachelor's degree.

Health Care Experience

Applicants who have a background in nursing, clinical laboratory work or other health care experience also are viewed favorably.

Personal Qualifications

Personal qualifications to be a drug rep include assertiveness, persistence, an outgoing personality, persuasiveness, ability to work independently, stamina, a willingness to travel, and the motivation to devote many extra hours to networking and making contacts.

Legal Considerations

Applicants to work in pharmaceutical sales must have a clean driving record and no record of legal convictions involving drugs, and must pass a drug screening.