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Pharmaceutical Sales - Career Profile |
Career OverviewThe role of the pharmaceutical sales representative is similar to that of a pharmaceutical detailer, but with less qualifications and experience. They are predominantly sales representative and may help promote the use and sale of drugs and other pharmaceutical products to physicians, dentists, hospitals, retail and wholesale drug stores by referring clients with questions to pharmaceutical detailers.
For the most part, pharmaceutical sales representatives call customers and discuss their requirements: whether they need to restock certain supplies, such as pharmaceutical drugs or equipment. They will also inform customers about any new drugs that are on the market and that may be of interest to the customers.
Their principle function is to promote and sell drugs and medicines manufactured by a specific company; most pharmaceutical sales representatives work for a specific pharmaceutical company, selling and processing orders for them and maintaining industry contacts.
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Career RequirementsExperience in pharmaceuticals and in sales is extremely desirable in the field, although there are no specific requirements of sales representatives of pharmaceuticals.
Many pharmaceutical sales representatives and a ready knowledge of marketing and advertising strategies; they are also fast learners and prepared to familiarize themselves with new companies as potential buyers, and to familiarize themselves with company lines, policies, and directives as needed.
Most pharmaceutical representatives do have a bachelor’s degree at least and some professional experience in marketing. Desirable subjects for degrees include biology, chemistry, biochemistry, biophysics, organic chemistry, and English. Most candidates have professional education as well, including demonstrated ability to review scientific studies and make critical assumptions, although expert reviews are generally available from pharmaceutical detailers.
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Job OutlookThe sale of pharmaceuticals is, and will remain, a fast-paced business that rewards assertiveness and persistence above all. Most pharmaceutical sales representatives travel a treat deal, visiting pharmacists, hospital personnel, physicians, and other purchasers of pharmaceuticals. Their job depends upon making every effort to sell the product.
For those wit the necessary assertiveness and determination to succeed, the job outlook for pharmaceutical sales representatives is extremely positive.
Pharmaceuticals are going to be increasingly important to the treatment of the elderly, whose medical concerns are not so much related to specific illness and the need for a cure, but rather more to the desire to improve or at least sustain a quality of life.
For those who are committed to the profession, opportunities to sell and develop more substantial knowledge and contacts within the field are considerable. The career will be rewarding and dynamic for those who are prepared to make the commitment to be full-time sellers.
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Career TrackMost pharmaceutical sales representatives may have a genuine interest in sciences and medical practice but the standard career track for these professionals does not focus upon the medical or pharmaceutical job options. Most pharmaceutical sales representatives move on to positions in different areas of sales; they may not even convert their expertise.
The career tracks for pharmaceutical sales representatives are simply diverse and competitive. Some may receive promotions to supervisory positions; some may apply their experience to study pharmacy and become qualified pharmacists. Excellent opportunities are offered; the precise career track is determined by the individual.
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CompensationAlthough compensation for pharmaceutical sales representatives varies across the field, most earn between $30,000 and $60,000 per year. Earnings are high in most cases, because sales representatives tend to make commission-based bonuses. In most cases, earning potential is excellent and compensations are also competitive.
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