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 roleHow 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 menteeHow can one transition to MSL position and make an impact for the first 3 - 6 monthsExpecting the role to change in a post-COVID worldHow does an aspiring MSL stand out vs. a seasoned MSL who’s going through the same rounds of interviewPiece 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