There are many MSL interview tips bandied about: start with a firm handshake and good eye contact, bring copies of your resume or even “Don’t forget to wear matching socks.” (This last tip is my favorite from the movie “A Few Good Men.”) These types of tips can be valuable but they are one-offs, scattered across the interaction with no unifying principle or theme. Most roles do not lend themselves to a unifying theme.
Fortunately, the Medical Science Liaison (MSL) role does, and it is hiding in plain sight. Since MSLs are also scientists, cut from the Einstein cloth, why not create a unifying principle during your interview? Not of space and time with a dash of gravity to curve the geometry, but rather a theme lifted directly from the MSL job description of meeting a KOL (key opinion leader) for the first time and developing a real relationship.
Tip 1: Collaborate with your interviewer as if they are a KOL
Let’s discuss what attributes make for a really good MSL meeting. MSLs are expected to bring customized value to their meetings with KOLs. They do this by preparing for the meeting through research. They get to know what they can about the person they are meeting through proprietary databases, LinkedIn, Google searches/publications and talking to colleagues. They go into the meeting with the purpose of creating a lasting relationship by delivering value specific to the needs and likes of the person they are meeting. MSLs strive to bring value to their KOL meetings every single time they meet or talk on the phone to ensure that they are building a strong relationship that gets them back in the door on a regular basis. MSLs seek to gather actionable insights that make the relationship even stronger. Precisely what you should do in your MSL interview.
Tip 4: Prepare 5+ Success Stories
Did you ever have a child ask you to tell them a story? Humans of all ages love a good story and a story well delivered is a bonding experience. Prepare 5+ success stories for every interview you have that you hope will end in a job offer. Success stories go beyond the STAR interview technique of answering questions. STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action and Result. The STAR technique was designed to help you go beyond a potentially mundane list of tasks and responsibilities you might use to describe your work experience. STAR components are like the raw data and science that go into an MSL’s scientific presentation, but the success story brings it to life in a bonding moment with your audience. This is what MSLs need to do well in their job and in their MSL interview. It will be how you get the job offer.
Interested in the full list of tips for your MSL interview? Visit this MSL Society Journal article just published. Remember, by approaching the interview process as an MSL would engage a KOL you will be highlighting your capabilities to function as an MSL. The interview process will then allow you to demonstrate your MSL chops and get the job offer when your interviewer expresses the same sentiment Renee Zellweger did in “Jerry McGuire”, “You had me at hello, you had me at hello.”
