Medical device sales is a hot sales category.  Because it's hot, you're going to have some competition to beat to land the job.  But never fear--the medical sales recruiter has a strategy for you!

1.  Know what's going on in the market with medical device companies.

First, you have to understand the job--the sales process involved in these types of sales, how hospitals buy medical technology, how to deal with doctors, and how health care reform is going to change the game.

Next, know what companies you're looking at:  I have a list of the Top 100 Medical Companies that you can sign up to receive for free, with a section devoted to medical device companies.  Also, consider looking at the financial world's picks for best health care stocks to give you another perspective.

Finally, look online for general information about what's going on in medical devices today.  There's a lot of churn in the job market for medical device sales professionals in 2010, but still great jobs to be had.  Check out PHC Consulting's medical device jobs page to see some of what's available.

2.  Know what you're going to need to bring to the table.

A medical device sales rep is positioned as the expert on new products and technologies for surgeons, specialists, and executive-level clients in hospital administration, and is often required to be present during procedures in operating rooms.  So not only do you need a scientific background with a strong understanding of mechanical concepts and technology, you'll need high-level selling skills, high energy, and probably a strong stomach!

If you see that you're lacking in some area, fix it--take some classes, do some reading, or try a field preceptorship (a.k.a. job shadowing or a ride-along) to enhance your knowledge of the job.  Taking the initiative on these items communicates that you are willing to do what it takes to be successful.  (If your problem is the stomach thing, you're on your own.)

3.  Know what it takes to be a stand-out candidate.

• Read my previous post, 6 Tips for a Successful Medical Device Sales Job Interview.  You'll learn (among other things) what interview questions to expect and how to implement your brag book and 30/60/90-day sales plan.

• Sign up for my free training webinar "How to Land a Job in Medical Sales" to learn the essential steps for transitioning.

• Get the How to Get Into Medical Sales kit from www.career-confidential.com.  It's got 15 years of medical sales experience packed into 1.5 hours of audio coaching and step-by-step help for your cover letter, resume, technology sheet, 30/60/90-day plan, thank you note, and more.

• Find a career coach to hone your skills as a candidate and interviewee.  An objective, experienced career coach can save you a lot of time and frustration in your job search.  Take advantage of it.

There are hundreds of articles on this blog for reading about how to land a job in medical sales, and I encourage you to read them.  The more research you can do into career field you'd like to transition into, the better.  It might not make sense to some people to do that much work before you even get the job, but actually, that's what's going to make it more likely that you get the job you want.

Good luck.

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