Marketing and selling the products of pharmaceutical firms is the responsibility of the pharmaceutical sales representative. These highly trained professionals are experts in their company’s drugs and know exactly how to sell them to physicians, pharmacists, health administrators and dentists.
The sales rep travels a lot within a district, visiting physicians and describing the benefits of pharmaceuticals. Free samples are always given out in an attempt to win new sales orders. This is one of the most competitive sectors of the sales industry, so sales reps need to be on the top of their game at all times. They must have extensive knowledge of pharmaceuticals and a general knowledge of medicine.
Most companies require a four-year degree from an accredited university in business or a course related to sales. If hired, the company will provide lengthy training to ensure its salespeople know every detail of the products they will be selling. An outgoing personality, motivation and an eagerness to win, are all positive qualities for this position.
Salaries for pharmaceutical sales representatives range widely depending on the company and the success of the sales rep. On average, sales reps in the pharmaceutical industry earn between C
$56,000 and C
$80,000 per year.