MSL Talk

Latest Episodes:

Best Practices and Creative Ways to Gain KOL Access During COVID-19 Oct 13, 2020

Show notes

In this episode, Tom Caravela speaks with Jason Demuth about his journey from retail pharmacy to the pharmaceutical industry. Jason shares his experiences engaging Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) during COVID, emphasizing the strategic use of social media and email communication. The discussion explores the future of KOL access and offers strategies for aspiring MSLs. Jason compares roles in big pharma versus small pharma and highlights the importance of networking and recruiters in advancing MSL careers. The episode concludes with Jason's final thoughts and advice, alongside a call for listener engagement.

My guest today is Jason Demuth, Director, Medical Science Liaison at Strongbridge Bio shares creative ways to reach and access KOLs during COVID-19.

In this episode we discuss:

Jason’s background
His journey and getting his first MSL role
Creative ideas and ways to access KOLs
His perspective on LinkedIn and Facebook for KOL engagement
Email interaction with KOLs
What is the future going to look like in terms of access in Jason’s perspective
His advice for new MSLs or those breaking into the role
Jason’s advice for MSLs and/or MSL Leaders as we look to the future

(0:00) Introduction and guest background (1:19) Transition from retail pharmacy to industry (5:26) Engaging KOLs during COVID and utilizing social media (14:44) Professional use of social media platforms and email communication (21:14) Future of KOL access and strategies for aspiring MSLs (26:00) Comparing big pharma and small pharma roles for MSLs (27:19) Importance of networking and role of recruiters in MSL careers (29:17) Final thoughts and advice from guest (30:14) Closing remarks and listener engagement

Career Longevity: What behavioral competencies will help you have career longevity and stability Oct 06, 2020

Show notes

In this episode, Norwood Harris shares his extensive experience and career journey at Sandoz and Novartis, providing insights into career longevity and navigating mergers within large and small companies. He emphasizes the importance of networking and building strong internal relationships, alongside the critical role of management in supporting MSLs. Norwood offers practical advice on managing your manager, preparing for performance reviews, and honing presentation skills. He also discusses the significance of passion and networking in interview preparation. The episode concludes with Norwood's guidance on building a stable MSL career, followed by closing remarks and a call to action.

Today my guest is Norward Harris, Consultant Medical Science Liaison Trainer, Professional Mentor, and Original MSL. We discuss MSL career development behavioral competencies that will help you obtain a career of longevity and stability.

In this episode we discuss:

Norward’s background
His advice on career longevity and stability
What role management plays in supporting him as an MSL in his career
Ways MSLs can be proactive in influencing career stability and longevity
Advice for MSLs to prepare for Performance Review
Advice or suggestion for MSLs looking for promotion
His suggestions to individuals looking to transition to the industry and break into the MSL role

(0:00) Introduction of Norwood Harris (1:21) Norwood Harris's background and career path at Sandoz and Novartis (4:08) Career longevity, surviving mergers, and differences between large and small companies (13:20) Networking, internal relationships, and management's role in MSL support (19:46) Managing your manager and preparing for performance reviews (25:53) Presentation skills and transitioning into the MSL role (29:52) Interview preparation and the importance of passion and networking (32:30) Building a stable MSL career and final advice (36:39) Closing remarks and call to action

Resume Writing and Editing for Medical Science Liaisons Sep 22, 2020

Show notes

In this episode, Tom Caravela delves into the art of crafting a standout resume tailored for MSL roles. He begins with an overview of a resume webinar, offering insights into MSL job requirements and essential resume tips. Tom discusses the ideal resume length, ATS considerations, and the importance of tailoring resumes to specific job descriptions. He emphasizes resume branding, professional summaries, and effective formatting. The episode also covers showcasing tenure, impactful language, and what to omit. Tom advises on managing multiple resume versions, synchronizing LinkedIn profiles, and updating cover letters. The episode concludes with additional resources and a reminder to subscribe.

Today is a special solo episode by request. We’re going to talk about resume writing and editing for Medical Science Liaisons.

In this episode we discuss:

Understanding the typical requirements for MSLs
How long should the resume be
Resume with the proper keywords
Take time to align your skills and experience to your resume based upon the key skills, responsibilities, and requirements documented in the job description
Make your resume stand out
Have strong communication and presentation skills
Brand yourself
Include a professional summary
Things not to include
Revisit LinkedIn profile and resume every 6 months

(0:00) Introduction to the episode and overview of resume webinar (3:01) MSL job requirements and resume tips (7:26) Ideal resume length and ATS considerations (15:42) Tailoring resume to job descriptions and highlighting expertise (23:10) Resume branding and professional summary (28:37) Resume formatting and contact information (31:37) Showcasing tenure and using impactful language (33:29) What to omit from your resume (35:16) Managing and proofreading multiple resume versions (38:30) Synchronizing LinkedIn with your resume (39:21) Cover letter and resume update strategies (41:14) Closing remarks and additional resources (41:55) Podcast outro and subscription reminder

An Unexpected Journey From Novice MSL to Global Medical Excellence Leader with Tonya Johnson Sep 15, 2020

Show notes

In this episode, Tom Caravela welcomes Dr. Tanya Johnson, who shares her inspiring journey from Newark to becoming a Medical Science Liaison (MSL). Tanya emphasizes the importance of networking and mentorship in the MSL field and offers insights into building and maintaining strong Key Opinion Leader (KOL) relationships. She discusses career development strategies, the roles of mentors and sponsors, and proactive career management. Tanya also explores the global medical excellence leader role and highlights key skills and emotional intelligence necessary for MSLs today. The episode concludes with Tanya's thoughts on future directions for MSLs.

My guest today is Dr. Tonya Johnson, she was a former Global Medical leader of MSL Excellence. We discuss TJ’s trek from no experience to Global Medical Affairs leader.

In this episode we discuss:

Who is Tonya
Transitioning to the industry
The concept of mentors and sponsors
The approach to finding a mentor or a sponsor
Finding mentors
What is Global Medical Excellence
What skills are mandatory for the MSLs of today

(0:00) Introduction and welcome to Dr. Tanya Johnson (2:02) Tanya Johnson's journey from Newark to MSL (7:05) The significance of networking and mentorship for MSLs (10:03) Building and maintaining KOL relationships (16:20) Career development strategies for MSLs (20:26) Understanding mentors and sponsors in your career (25:07) How to proactively manage your MSL career (27:11) Navigating mentorship and workplace dynamics (30:14) Exploring the global medical excellence leader role (35:19) Key skills and emotional intelligence for MSLs today (39:45) Closing thoughts and future directions

Field MSL Leadership Panel - MSL QA Session PART TWO with Vanessa Jacobsen, Amy Misnik, and Sue Watson Sep 08, 2020

Show notes

In this episode, Tom Caravela is joined by Amy Misnick, Vanessa Jacobson, and Sue Watson to explore a range of topics crucial for current and aspiring Medical Science Liaisons. The discussion covers the transition into the MSL role, including necessary certifications and experiences, and how to craft an effective resume using the right keywords. They also address the impact of the pandemic on MSL performance and the importance of virtual introductions to Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs). The speakers offer insights on demonstrating MSL value within organizations, overcoming experience barriers, and the criteria for ending KOL relationships. They conclude with advice for industry newcomers and a reminder to embrace growth opportunities.

We are part two of our Field MSL Leadership panel, MSL Q&A session with Vanessa Jacobsen, Amy Misnik, and Sue Watson.

In this episode we discuss:

What experience or certification can help someone transition into the MSL position
How is MSL performance assessed during COVID and the best advice to achieve success
What keywords are important to include in the resume
Advice for a newly hired MSL during COVID on how to make a lasting impact when introducing themselves to KOLs for the first time virtually
How to overcome the job listed requirement of must have prior MSL experience (as an aspiring MSL)
How’s training evolving to keep up with the pace of healthcare innovation
Showing one’s value internally as an MSL
Under what conditions should MSLs discontinue KOL relationship or at what point should an MSL stop trying to connect
Advice moving into the rest of COVID and into 2021
Advice to younger self

(0:00) Introduction and guest welcome (0:42) Surveying LinkedIn for MSL questions (1:06) Transitioning into an MSL role: Certifications and experiences (2:46) Assessing MSL performance in the pandemic (5:38) Crafting an effective MSL resume with keywords (8:58) Virtual introductions to KOLs (11:29) Overcoming the requirement for prior MSL experience (16:52) Training needs for MSLs in a changing environment (19:37) Demonstrating MSL value within the organization (21:35) Criteria for ending KOL relationships (25:24) Consolidated advice for current and aspiring MSLs (27:12) Encouragement for recent industry graduates (28:21) Embracing challenges and growth opportunities (29:03) Expressing gratitude for the MSL role and looking ahead (30:15) Host's thanks and future guest plans (30:48) Conclusion and reminder to subscribe

Field MSL Leadership Panel - MSL QA Session PART ONE with Vanessa Jacobsen, Amy Misnik, and Sue Watson Sep 01, 2020

Show notes

In this episode, Tom Caravela hosts a panel discussion with guests Sue Watson, Amy Misnik, and Vanessa Jacobson, who share their insights on the MSL role. Sue discusses the best industry experiences for aspiring MSLs and the evolving future of the role post-COVID. Amy offers advice on approaching potential mentors and standing out in interviews, while Vanessa focuses on making an impact as a new MSL and provides guidance for students and new graduates. The episode also touches on the value of MSL certifications. Closing remarks hint at a continuation in a forthcoming part 2.

Today I have Sue Watson, Amy Misnik, and Vanessa Jacobsen joining me for our first ever MSL field leadership panel QA session. They are the first people that came on as guests, the pioneers of the MSL Talk podcast.

In this episode we discuss:

For aspiring MSLs with experience mainly in academia, what specific types of industry experiences are best to obtain prior to applying for the first MSL role
How does a person approach a potential mentor and how open are Medical Affair leaders to accept this request and what is the eligible criteria for a mentee
How can one transition to MSL position and make an impact for the first 3 - 6 months
Expecting the role to change in a post-COVID world
How does an aspiring MSL stand out vs. a seasoned MSL who’s going through the same rounds of interview
Piece of advice if they would go back and give themselves as new graduates
Does certification really give an aspiring or an experienced MSL an advantage

(0:00) Introduction and panel guest introductions (3:28) Format and guest Sue Watson on best industry experiences for aspiring MSLs (5:43) Amy Misnik on approaching potential mentors (9:15) Vanessa Jacobson on making an impact as a new MSL (11:08) Sue Watson on the future of the MSL role post-COVID (12:59) Amy Misnik on standing out in MSL interviews (16:26) Vanessa Jacobson's advice for students and new graduates (17:19) Sue Watson on the value of MSL certifications (21:09) Closing remarks and part 2 announcement

MSL Interviews GONE WRONG... Shocking stories of what NOT to do Live or Virtual with Anita Carvalho Aug 25, 2020

Show notes

In this episode, Anita Carvalho joins Tom Caravela to delve into the nuances of MSL interviews. Anita shares her experiences, highlighting both common and unusual occurrences during virtual interviews. The conversation covers essential preparation techniques, handling unexpected interruptions, and maintaining professionalism. They discuss the impact of distractions, such as phones, and offer tips on effective note-taking and avoiding filler words. Anita also provides insights on MSL presentation practices, attire considerations, and emotional composure. The episode concludes with advice on engaging with interviewers, the importance of thank you notes, and recognizing genuine interest in MSL roles.

My guest today is Anita Carvalho, Staffing Consultant at FerGene. We talk about MSL interviews gone wrong, shocking stories of what not to do live or virtual. A really great conversation, funny stuff, you guys will like it.

In this episode we discuss:

Anita’s background
Stories of virtual interviews gone wrong
Get rid of phones during interviews
Anita’s advice
Using filler words
Things that have gone wrong and best practices as it relates to the presentation of preparation for the presentation
Questions to ask the interviewer
Sending thank-you notes

(0:00) Introduction to episode and guest Anita Carvalho (0:41) Anita Carvalho's background and MSL interview experiences (2:40) Unusual virtual interview occurrences (4:07) Coaching and preparation for interviews (7:02) Unexpected interruptions during interviews (8:24) Inappropriate applicant behavior (12:11) Professionalism and communication in interviews (15:10) The issue with distractions and phones (17:28) Effective note-taking strategies (19:32) Avoiding overuse of filler words (21:36) MSL presentation best practices (26:09) Wardrobe and emotional interview mishaps (32:50) Engaging with interviewers and asking questions (35:52) The significance of thank you notes (38:49) Discerning genuine interest in MSL roles

The 2 Most Critical Elements of MSL Territory Excellence with Julie Montiel Aug 18, 2020

Show notes

In this episode, Tom Caravela is joined by Julie Montiel to explore the nuances of MSL territory excellence and the critical role of scientific acumen. They delve into strategies for achieving scientific acumen and crafting effective, individualized territory plans. The conversation highlights the significance of pre-call and post-call planning in managing territories, as well as adapting strategies for virtual and digital engagements. Julie shares tips to enhance virtual presentation skills, concluding with a recap on creating a plan for territory excellence. The episode wraps up with closing remarks on the importance of key MSL strategies and a call to action for listeners.

My guest today is Julie Montiel, the National Scientific Director, Lymphoma/Myeloid MSL at The Janssen. We talk about the two most critical of MSL territory excellence.

In this episode we discuss:

Julie’s background
The two most critical elements
How MSLs improve their performance
What is scientific acumen
Why is scientific acumen the most important element of territory excellence
What does excellence in scientific acumen look like?
Every territory is different
Applying principles to a virtual type of scenario
How MSLs bring all of these pieces of information together to build strategic territory excellence

(0:00) Introduction to the episode and guest Julie Montiel (2:31) Discussing critical elements of MSL territory excellence and scientific acumen (6:24) Strategies for achieving and implications of scientific acumen (12:05) Crafting and individualizing strategic territory plans (20:14) The role of pre-call and post-call planning in territory management (24:15) Adapting MSL strategies for virtual and digital engagement (27:40) Tips for enhancing virtual presentation skills (29:23) Recap on building a plan for territory excellence (31:09) Closing remarks and importance of key MSL strategies (32:11) Outro and call to action

The MSL Career Ladder…What options are available and how to position yourself for advancement with Davida White Aug 04, 2020

Show notes

In this episode, Davida White shares her insights on the evolving landscape of Medical Science Liaison roles and medical affairs. She discusses her career journey and emphasizes the importance of growth opportunities, particularly through medical support roles. Davida highlights the significance of taking initiative, prioritizing experience over job titles, and setting career goals with leadership. She also delves into the role of mentorship and networking in career advancement. The conversation touches on adapting to post-COVID-19 changes and the strategic value of lateral career moves. The episode concludes with Davida's thoughts on summertime plans.

My guest today is Davida White, US Oncology Field Medical Alignment Director at Merck and we discuss the MSL Career Ladder and what career options are available to MSLs as well as how to position yourself for promotion.

In this episode:

Davida’s background and her work now
Her journey and transition to the industry
What options are available past the title or the role of an MSL
Pursuing some of these career options for MSLs
Management development programs
Her take on mentors and mentorship type programs
Skills to be developed for MSLs to advance their careers
Advice for people to help them get noticed and what steps should be taken

(0:00) Introduction of guest Davita White and episode topic (1:06) Davita White's background and career journey (3:58) Growth and opportunities for MSLs (6:44) Exploring medical support roles and excellence positions (9:23) Career paths within in-house medical affairs (11:02) The value of initiative in career advancement (13:04) Prioritizing experience over job titles (17:55) Setting and discussing career goals with leadership (20:25) The role of mentorship in MSL career development (22:53) Developing key skills for career progression (25:14) The importance of networking and relationship-building (27:34) Adjusting to the medical field's changes post-COVID-19 (29:42) Lateral moves as a strategic career approach (31:18) Episode wrap-up and summertime plans

The transition from individual contributor to Medical Affairs leader with Gina Ferrari Jul 28, 2020

Show notes

In this episode, Gina Ferrari shares her journey into the pharmaceutical industry and her progression to an MSL manager role. She provides insights on career advancement strategies, emphasizing the value of taking on additional responsibilities and the impact of mentorship on career development. Gina discusses leadership development programs and the importance of mastering internal networking and company politics. She highlights the need for flexibility and effective communication in supporting team goals while balancing leadership responsibilities. The episode concludes with Gina's advice on documenting achievements and a look towards the future.

My guest today is Gina Ferrari, National Director MSLs and we discuss her transition from Individual Contributor to Medical Affairs Leadership.

In this episode:

Gina’s background
How she transitioned from an MSL to a Medical Affairs Leader
Skills to be developed in preparation for promotion and how MSLs can position themselves the same way Gina did
Finding mentors
Management training programs
Importance of internal networking
Gina’s advice for people to help them get noticed and the steps to follow

(0:00) Introduction of Gina Ferrari and Welcome (2:28) Transitioning into the Pharma Industry and MSL Roles (5:52) Career Advancement: MSL Manager and Leadership (11:13) Career Path Strategies for Aspiring MSLs (14:19) Taking on Extra Responsibilities for Career Growth (16:27) The Role of Mentors in Career Development (19:17) Leadership Development and Management Programs (21:47) Mastering Internal Networking and Company Politics (27:00) Flexibility and Communication in Team Support (29:21) Leadership: Balancing Goals and Team Support (31:10) Embracing Flexibility and Documenting Achievements (33:04) Closing Remarks and Future Outlook (34:07) Sponsor: [Name of Sponsor]

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