How to Become a Drug Sales Rep Without Experience
A drug sales rep, also known as a pharmaceutical sales representative, is a highly competitive job. Drug sales reps receive an excellent salary, benefits, and travel for work. Many larger drug companies look for newly graduated degree-holders, or experienced employees looking for a job change. While breaking into such a competitive field without any sales experience can be difficult, there are steps you can take to increase your chances.
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Instructions
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Go to college and graduate with honors. No reputable pharmaceutical company will hire someone with no experience and no college degree. Major in a science-related subject such as chemistry or biology. Maintain a high grade-point-average. Participate in extra-curricular activities while in college, especially those of a scientific nature. Hold leadership positions in those organizations, if possible.
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Maintain a good driving record. Drug reps have to drive around their territory to visit doctors and hospitals, and the company usually provides the car for the rep. Companies are less likely to invest money in a car for an applicant with a poor driving record.
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Maintain a good credit rating. Stay out of excessive credit card debt, and pay all your bills on time. Pharmaceutical companies entrust their drug reps with thousands of dollars' worth of prescription drugs, and they can use your credit report as an indicator of your trustworthiness.
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Learn another language. Research the demographics of the territory you are applying for, or the area in which you want to work. Learn to speak the language of the largest minority group in the area. If it is a predominantly Hispanic area, take some Spanish classes at your local community college, for example. This can give you an edge over competing applicants.
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Craft an attractive resume that stands out. Maintain a steady employment record to avoid the appearance of job-hopping or fickleness. Outline your accomplishments on your resume as opposed to your job duties in past positions. Drug rep jobs are very goal-oriented, and employers want to know you are proactive in your job life.
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Network with industry insiders. Call your family doctor and ask for the names of the reps that frequent the office, or ask the nurses in person the next time you go in for a visit. Attend any pharmaceutical job fairs and establish relationships with the recruiters.
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References
- Photo Credit Drug Research image by JJAVA from Fotolia.com
