Any Advice for Someone Entering Med Device Sales?
I’m looking for some advice from people who have successfully broken into medical device sales or clinical specialist roles because I’m honestly feeling stuck.
I’ve been applying to medical device positions for about a year now and have only landed two interviews, with one making it to the second round before getting cut. I’ve also been networking on LinkedIn, reaching out to reps and recruiters, but it hasn’t led to many opportunities. At this point, I’m trying to figure out what else I can do to become a stronger candidate.
For background, I’ve spent the last five years working in a Level I Trauma Center in several different roles:
Pre-Op/PACU Unit Coordinator
Anesthesia Technician, working directly with anesthesiologists, CRNAs, surgeons, and OR staff
Biomedical Equipment Technician, maintaining and repairing medical devices throughout the hospital
Outside of healthcare, I’ve coached baseball for several years and currently officiate varsity high school basketball. Those experiences have taught me how to communicate effectively, coach others, stay composed under pressure, and continually improve through feedback.
My goal is to get into a Clinical Specialist or Medical Device Sales role because I genuinely enjoy the OR environment and working alongside physicians. I’m also open to pharmaceutical sales if that’s a more realistic path into the industry.
For those of you who made the transition, what made the biggest difference? Was it networking, certifications, targeting different roles, improving your résumé, or something else entirely? Is there anything you wish you had done sooner that helped you finally break in?
I’d really appreciate any advice. Thanks!