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NewswireToday - /newswire/ -
Washington, DC, United States, 10/06/2006 - The pharmaceutical industry seems to radiate success in a world where so many other enterprises are floundering. A strong attraction to pharmaceutical sales is the job itself, which offers freedom, variety and challenges..
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Strong, Stable Industry (Pharmaceutical Sales)
The modern pharmaceutical industry should thrive as long as people need medical treatment. In the US, pharmaceutical companies employ more than a quarter of a million people and sell more than $200 billion in drugs annually.
The aging population, which requires increased medical attention, is one primary driver. Furthermore, healthcare is shifting away from acute hospital treatment in favor of medicines. Today, prescription drugs are the preferred treatment for a number of serious conditions, including AIDS, cancer, cholesterol and diabetes, marking a trend that augurs well for the industry.
Dependent on sales revenue, the pharmaceutical industry invests heavily in sales teams. Companies provide support give to sales representatives with clear guidelines on how to get the job done. Notwithstanding this support, sales reps enjoy the freedom of choosing their own work hours.
Another valued job feature is the constant challenge. Reps can learn something new every day. Training sessions, industry meetings and opportunities to entertain clients stave off monotony. One challenge pharmaceutical sales reps never face is cold calling. Instead, reps are expected to visit physicians within a given geographic area and specialty.
Also high on the list of what distinguishes this career is the personnel involved. Pharmaceutical companies attract creative, diversified bright people, and their clients comprise a high-powered group; reps often build long-term relationships with clients.
Well-Paying Prospect
Pharmaceutical sales is also a well paying prospect. With a salary, commission and bonus, the successful rep may take home a substantial income. The exact figure depends on location, specialty and company, but an experienced pharma sales rep can expect to earn somewhere in the low six figures. Reps also enjoy the rich menu of benefits most pharmaceutical companies offer.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, there are many certifications designed to raise standards and develop the skills of sales representatives, wholesale and manufacturing. A few examples are the Certified Professional Manufacturers’ Representative and the (CNPR) Certified National Pharmaceutical Representative. Certification may involve completion of formal training and passing of an examination.
Those who want to become sales representatives should be goal oriented, persuasive, and able to 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. Patience and perseverance also are key to completing a sale, which can take several months.
Frequently, promotion takes the form of an assignment to a larger account or territory where commissions are likely to be greater. Experienced sales representatives may move into jobs as sales trainers, who instruct new employees on selling techniques and on company policies and procedures. Those who have good sales records and leadership ability may advance to higher level positions such as sales supervisor, district manager, or vice president of sales.
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