How to Become a Pharmaceutical Sales Rep

Pharmaceutical sales is a highly desirable position sought by many sales professionals due to the steady demand of pharmaceutical supplies and the potential for career growth. In fact, a pharmaceutical sales rep can often excel in terms of earning bonuses and even launch a new career in pharmaceutical sales management. Take charge of your sales career by learning how to become a pharmaceutical sales rep.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Current resume
• Bachelor's degree
• Copy of your credit report (optional)

1. Be aware that most pharmaceutical companies require that all sales rep candidates possess a Bachelor's degree, with some even preferring an MBA (Masters in Business Administration). While your degree doesn't have to be in medicine or science, you must have an aptitude to learn and interpret complex scientific theories, including biology and chemistry.

2. Know what's on your credit report before you apply to become a pharmaceutical sales rep. A few negative marks won't count against you, but serious credit problems will not instill confidence in a potential employer to give you a company car and an expense account.

3. Stress any previous previous sales, marketing or healthcare experience on your resume and during your initial interview (which is usually conducted by phone). This type of background is often deemed highly valuable for becoming a successful pharmaceutical sales rep.

4. Set a stellar example of enthusiasm and persuasion during the interview process. More than anything else, a potential employer will look for strong communication skills and a winning personality in a pharmaceutical sales rep candidate.

5. Show keen interest in the pharmaceutical company's mission by asking plenty of questions about its products and research and development strategies. Then be prepared to answer questions about how you plan to apply this information in your role as a pharmaceutical sales rep.

6. Sell yourself for bounty to become a pharmaceutical sales rep. Many companies offer a cash reward to their existing sales reps who refer someone who wants to become a pharmaceutical sales rep--an incentive that makes most reps willing to help you get your foot in the door.

7. Locate a pharmaceutical sales rep who can introduce you to the field by asking your physician or local hospital for contacts. These sources can likely produce several business cards.

Tips & Warnings

• A pharmaceutical sales rep can usually expect plenty of perks to come along with the job, such as a company car, stock options, a flexible schedule and the ability to work independently.

• The pharmaceutical sales industry reflects diversity in its workforce, with about 50 percent of all sales reps being women and the remainder representing many different cultural backgrounds.