Pharmaceutical Sales: Golden Ticket or Golden Handcuffs?

For as many pharmaceutical sales reps who say they love being in pharmaceutical sales, you will find just that many who don't.  In a thorough search of the internet and various forums you will find those who will do anything to break into the industry.  Prospective pharmaceutical sales reps join various groups on LinkedIn trying to find others who can give them insight into the industry, ask questions on CafePharma forums to get specifics about various pharma sales openings, salaries, etc. and ask for advice on Yahoo Answers about how to "break" into the industry.  Students, recent graduates, professionals and the like are all looking for the best way to start a lucrative career in pharmaceutical sales.  Just like I did, when I first researched this most coveted position during my senior year of college, many potential candidates only see the above average starting salary, great benefits, company car, laptop computer, cell phone, expense account and flexibility that pharmaceutical sales careers offer.  I wonder if anyone has researched or been made aware of the actual responsibilities of the job or the major challenges that currently exist in the pharmaceutical industry.  I must admit the industry was at its peak when I joined Big Pharma over 10 years ago, but has been going down hill at a rapid pace ever since.  I can only imagine how great a pharmaceutical sales position was 20-30 years ago.



However, the current pharmaceutical sales environment leaves much to be desired.  Don't get me wrong; anyone who has a job at all in this environment should count him/herself among the fortunate ones, nonetheless, this industry has become a disappointment to many.   Anyone who performs his/her due diligence will find that starting salaries have been cut nearly in half, benefits do not benefit one nearly as much, the company car has been reduced to a car allowance (or even less, mileage reimbursement), the corporate credit card has been switched to expense reimbursement and flexibility has been replaced with computer signature tracking.  Now, many will still argue that pharmaceutical sales is the Bentley of all jobs, but it all depends on what one values most in his/her career.    In addition to all the changes in compensation and perks, there have been monumental changes in pharmaceutical marketing guidelines, managed care reimbursement and medical practice access; all of which have limited the role and value of the pharmaceutical sales rep.


The bottom line is this: pharmaceutical sales can be a GREAT job...for the RIGHT person.  Whether it is a golden ticket or golden handcuffs is for you to decide.  Let us know how we can help!

{Hint: This is the time for you to vent.  Remember to keep it "above the line".}