I have been working in medical device sales for 10+ years now. I am a leader within the space and have hired dozens of people into the industry over my tenure. This includes positions ranging from entry-level associate type roles to senior-level managers. I am often asked by those outside the industry on how to break in to it and begin a career within medical device.
Medical device sales is one of the most lucrative sales professions in the country. The global medical device market alone is valued at over $600 billion, with many estimates showing it will eclipse $1 trillion by 2030. It offers one of the unique career opportunities to earn six figures from the jump as an associate, with many successful representatives earning well into the $200k - $300k range within a couple of years.
It is no doubt hard work, with high performing representatives working upwards of 60 hour work weeks and often staying in hotels throughout the week to cover their sales territory. However, it can also be a very rewarding profession, as medical device representatives often have a direct impact on patient care and treatment outcomes.
While I obviously have bias, I do strongly believe that medical device sales pays so well because it attracts better sales talent versus other industries. Some of the most qualified sales professionals in the country work in medical device not only because of the lucrative compensation, but because the sales cycle is often complex. Therefore, it can be daunting for someone outside the industry to navigate exactly how to break in.
This short 5 part series is designed to help those not currently in the industry to find a way in. I will cover topics such as resume building, outreach, and interview preparation. These are proven methods that I have used to help others land their dream jobs, and it is a recipe that I used myself when first breaking into the industry 10 years ago. Additionally, as a sales manager and leader, I consider these methods when hiring new talent to join my team. The interview stage is the final step throughout this journey for a new candidate. A candidate that is prepared and has done his due diligence prior to the interview is someone who separates himself from the dozens (and sometimes hundreds) of other candidates we consider for a single headcount position.
Hopefully, theses posts can help you land your sales dream job in medical device, or any other industry you are looking to break in to. These methods are certainly transferable to other industries and are proven to work with proper preparation and execution. If that sounds relatable to where you are in your own sales journey, please continue to read on.
Sincerely,
S.M.K., The Sales Mentor’s Playbook
For a more personalized approach to your career journey, I conduct one-on-one coaching through virtual portals (Zoom, Teams, etc.), and would be happy to schedule a free 20 minute introductory call to see if I can help you. To reach me, please message or email me.