What Job Seekers Need to Do Before Breaking into Pharma

For any job in any industry, it’s essential to know what kind of candidates hiring managers are looking for. This can be especially true when it comes to the pharmaceutical field. Whether you’re looking to enter the pharmaceutical sector for the first time or advance within the industry, recruiters might not give your application a second look if you don’t showcase the proper knowledge, skillsets and professionalism for the position. Before you submit your pharma industry application, here’s what you should know about the recruitment side of the hiring process:

Knowledge of the Industry

The pharma sector is multifaceted, with each segment playing a vital role in bringing life-saving treatments to the market. By researching these sectors and understanding their requirements, job seekers can better position themselves as ideal candidates and know where their skills would be most valuable. Pharma careers you should be familiar with include:

Research and Development (R&D): This is the heart of innovation, where new drugs and therapies are discovered and tested. Roles in R&D require strong expertise in biology, chemistry and data analysis.
Regulatory Affairs: These professionals ensure that products meet stringent quality and safety standards, requiring meticulous attention to detail and familiarity with global regulatory frameworks.
Biologics: A growing field focusing on biological therapies such as cell-based treatments and proteins, offering unique opportunities for those with specialized training.

Blend Technical and Soft Skills

To succeed in the pharmaceutical industry, job seekers should focus on developing a blend of technical expertise and soft skills.

TECHNICAL SKILLS

Educational Background: Degrees in biotechnology, pharmacology, chemistry or related fields are highly valued. While advanced degrees like a Ph.D. or MD are advantageous, many positions also welcome candidates with bachelor’s or master’s degrees coupled with relevant experience.
Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with processes such as FDA approvals or international regulatory guidelines is a significant asset.
Analytical Abilities: Proficiency in handling complex data, conducting experiments and using specialized software.

SOFT SKILLS

Collaboration and Communication: Working in multidisciplinary teams and explaining scientific concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
Adaptability: A willingness to learn and stay updated with industry trends and regulatory changes.
Problem-Solving: Critical thinking to address challenges in drug development and compliance.

Talk to Recruiters at Networking Events

Networking is often a game-changer in the pharma recruitment process. Attend industry conferences, seminars and webinars to connect with professionals and hiring managers. Joining associations like the Regulatory Affairs Professionals Society (RAPS) or the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering (ISPE) can also open doors to valuable opportunities.

Online platforms like LinkedIn are indispensable for building your professional network. Engage with industry content, participate in discussions and seek informational interviews to gain insights and establish relationships with key players.

Carefully Consider Job Postings

When you put out your resume, you want to make sure you can do the requested job and have the resume to back it up. Tailor your resume to highlight which of your experiences and achievements would make you stand out in your job, especially if you want to enter a leadership-type position. You may also wish to submit a cover letter, a portfolio of your work and your job application. Reviewing your research papers, projects and certifications can help emphasize your experience.

Breaking into the pharmaceutical industry requires dedication, strategic planning and a commitment to continuous learning. By understanding the industry, showcasing relevant skills and networking effectively, job seekers can unlock a wealth of opportunities in this exciting field.

Read more articles for the ConnectComm Community here.

This article was originally published on diversitycomm.net.