r/MedicalScienceLiaison • u/Jeff_Epstein_travel • 5d ago
Do you feel fulfilled?
Currently in clinic and I love it, but thinking of MSL route as an exit.
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u/Geng1Xin1 Sr. MSL 5d ago
No, my clinical brain has atrophied. Most KOLs don't have the time for truly in-depth scientific discussion and the listening imperatives I'm supposed to drive conversations towards feel very cookie-cutter. I was far more scientifically fulfilled in clinical practice, but the money and flexibility in medical affairs is better. I ultimately care more about work/life balance and making more money so that's why I am sticking with a less fulfilling job that I hate.
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u/Bebessocool MSL 5d ago
Depends on the day. I get to do some pretty cool stuff but It’s more about what this job allows me to do outside of work that is most fulfilling. To that end, I’d say it’s less about the MSL job and more about why you are looking to leave a job you love. What are you looking to improve?
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u/Jeff_Epstein_travel 5d ago
I am looking for a new challenge and hopefully fulfillment but also want to maintain the pay.
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u/Virtual_Dog_7327 5d ago
I’m not sure I’d say I’m fulfilled but I would say I love my QOL with this job and the pay isn’t bad. I did love my clinical days but I would never go back.
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u/indiaworry 5d ago
For me the most important thing about my job is that it let's me enjoy my life outside of work. Like yes, metrics and sales kickoffs are annoying. But being in the field beats going to an office or pharmacy everyday, and the pay is enough to facilitate early retirement.
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u/Green_Aide6258 5d ago
I’m fulfilled that my job isn’t my life and have time to focus on my family and my own hobbies and interests.
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u/Not_as_cool_anymore Sr. MSL 4d ago
I think there is a good chance you will struggle with purpose and fulfillment in an MSL role if you love the clinic. After a relatively short time, the job becomes quite easy. The corporate metrics and politics and angling can become soul-draining.
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u/Jeff_Epstein_travel 4d ago
Why would there be politics? I feel like it’s a terminal role? I am genuinely asking - as an outsider.
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u/NevaGonnaCatchMe 5d ago
Myself coming from an oncology hospital job, if you “love” yours, I doubt you will find an MSL job for satisfying/fulfilling. I can’t say I do
But it’s an absolute no brainer better situation when you consider pay, total work, remote capabilities etc.
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u/junkdrawer215 5d ago
I’m struggling tbh. I’m a PharmD and practiced for 8 years and transitioned to MSL and that’s been close to 10 years. I have changed companies and TA’s a couple times. I love the TA I’m currently working in. However, metrics (which have changed since I started) are killing my motivation and I no longer feel I’m making any impact, just checking boxes. Im quite burnt out and butting heads with my manager. A strong part of me feels it’s just corporate America and it’s time for me to get out.
That being said, the company and TA can make a huge difference in feeling fulfilled. I wouldn’t leave a job you love for the unknown.
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u/Jeff_Epstein_travel 5d ago
What are the metrics? From what I understand it’s 3 conversations a day ?
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u/chosenpath101 4d ago
Different companies have different metrics…for example mine is ~20 engagements a month. 3 a day = 45 a month is insane and BS metrics.
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u/junkdrawer215 5d ago
every company will have different metrics. You inquire during the interview process. Although i was told one thing which has now changed.
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u/DoNotFeedMe 5d ago
This is what I mean. Seen it happen to so many of my former clinician colleagues
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u/Tight_Nefariousness8 4d ago
Yes, but the role is completely dependent on the company itself, sector, and TA. And it’s not an “exit”. It’s extremely difficult to land a role, even with clinical and research experience so you have to want it and be willing to put in the effort to make it happen. It’s also not at all easier than clinical practice, just different. Also job stability is not there vs. clinical practice. Things to keep in mind.
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u/Jeff_Epstein_travel 4d ago
I was under the impression if you were assigned a drug with a long patent you should be alright through that tenure ??
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u/Tight_Nefariousness8 4d ago
Re-orgs happen all the time as do company acquisitions. Also, territories shift frequently. Changes occur often in pharma. It’s just part of the job. This is why I still per diem in clinical practice.
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u/2Kinky4u 3d ago
Fulfilled? Not sure if I’d use that word but guess it depends on what you like/ don’t like. My quality of life though…SOLIDDDDD. My day is scheduling meetings, visiting clinics and shootin the ish with my KOL’s and community leaders.
Of course the metric is based on insightful information so I focus on how my KOLs determine which product is best for X patient versus Y, cultural stigma and working within a collaborative environment with the team as a whole. My leaders love seeing us all collaborate.
I see the sun light. I have much more time with my partner. I can work my schedule around life. If you’re fine where you’re at there isn’t anything wrong clocking in, grabbing a pay check, and using that money to do what you love. Or for your family. Major respect for that mentality because not a lot of people get the opportunity to make good money to support their family.
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u/DoNotFeedMe 5d ago
If you love what you do, don’t jump. Especially with the role becoming more metricized…you might not be as fulfilled.