Breaking Into the Commercial World
Are you looking to leave your clinical job for a new career in commercial clinical applications or device sales? Not surprising, commercial positions are some of the most sought after positions in healthcare because they offer exceptional salaries and unlimited growth potential. Also not surprising that the pathway to these jobs is arduous, but can be managed if you are committed to get such a job and if you’re prepared. The following questions and answers are designed to assist you in your preparation:
What type of background do you need to enter into a commercial position?
The background needed for sales jobs varies by product line and market. The background need for clinical applications is hugely dependent on the number of registries one holds in any given field. Literally, all firms now emphasize a strong educational background. Nevertheless, many employers still hire individuals with previous sales experience who do not have a college degree. For some medical devices, sales ability, personality, and familiarity with brands are as important as a college degree. On the other hand, firms selling imaging products often require a degree in science or engineering in addition to some sales experience. In general, companies are looking for the best and brightest individuals who have the personality and desire to succeed.
Do companies offer training programs?
Literally all companies have formal training programs for both beginning clinical specialists and sales representatives lasting up to several weeks. However, most businesses are accelerating these programs to reduce costs and expedite the returns from training. New workers may be trained by accompanying experienced workers on their sales calls. As they gain familiarity with the firm’s products and clients, these workers are given increasing responsibility until they are eventually assigned their own territory. As businesses experience great competition, increased pressure is placed upon sales representatives to product faster.
How do you break into the industry when you have no sales or applications experience?
Register to be a member on Brava Medical. Let the Brava professionals help you. Brava Medical was formed and is designed to bridge the gap, to find and fit the perfect commercial job to the candidate. Other ways include networking with the sales representatives that you see on a regular basis in your hospitals or imaging centers. Many positions in the industry can be found via word of mouth so networking not only gives you insight about the profession but it may also get you your foot in the door.
Since many companies require a four-year degree, it’s important that you take special care when preparing your resume. If you’re a Sonographer, MRI-CT Technologist, or work in Nuclear Medicine, think about all the medical devices and products that you’re used in your clinical setting. Having the practical experience and hand on knowledge of these devices and products makes you a perfect promoter for the manufacturer. You’ve used the products and if you’re excited about them you will be able to communicate importance of purchasing the product to others.
How do I know if the commercial world is for me?
Those who want to become a sales professional or clinical specialist should be goal-oriented, persuasive and work well both independently and as part of a team. A pleasant personality and appearance, the ability to communicate well with people and problem-solving skills are highly valued. Sales professionals and clinical specialists should enjoy traveling since much of their time is spent visiting current and prospective clients.
What type of promotions can I expect in the commercial world?
Frequent. For those who excel, they never look back.
