Friday, December 02, 2005
Job Search Hazards - Lacking Direction, Uninformed
Probably the most popular job search path today is directed toward healthcare. After decades of chasing cool new careers in science such as aerospace which was born in the 1960s and 1970s and information technology in the 1980s and 1990s, it's interesting how we're now wanting to help sick people. They've always been around!
Even more interesting is the fact that job seekers from all walks of life want to work in the healthcare and medical areas. I witness everyone from cell phone salesmen and disco bartenders to fashion models wanting to enter the profession.
Before I go too far, let me assure you that these folks are not entering medical school and do not seek to perform your heart transplant. They are all seeking to sell pharmaceuticals. What's up with that? Well I believe I know!
Candidates are under the impression that there is security in pharmaceutical sales because of an aging population. You only have to research as far as the recent Merck layoffs to learn the mistake of generalities. Applicants believe that there is lots of money to be made selling pharmaceuticals and that the hours are regular. While we all want the best of work conditions, is this alone any reason to take a job? I think not.
Employers can normally see right into the souls of the uncommitted or non-directed so have good reasons for wanting your career path! At minimum, know what they do and why you want in!
Last week I was retained by a very sharp client who, when asked to name Synthon's product line during the first interview, couldn't. Next?
Even more interesting is the fact that job seekers from all walks of life want to work in the healthcare and medical areas. I witness everyone from cell phone salesmen and disco bartenders to fashion models wanting to enter the profession.
Before I go too far, let me assure you that these folks are not entering medical school and do not seek to perform your heart transplant. They are all seeking to sell pharmaceuticals. What's up with that? Well I believe I know!
Candidates are under the impression that there is security in pharmaceutical sales because of an aging population. You only have to research as far as the recent Merck layoffs to learn the mistake of generalities. Applicants believe that there is lots of money to be made selling pharmaceuticals and that the hours are regular. While we all want the best of work conditions, is this alone any reason to take a job? I think not.
Employers can normally see right into the souls of the uncommitted or non-directed so have good reasons for wanting your career path! At minimum, know what they do and why you want in!
Last week I was retained by a very sharp client who, when asked to name Synthon's product line during the first interview, couldn't. Next?
