One of the most common questions the Talent Acquisition team at Stryker receives is, “How can I enter the medical device sales field without prior experience?”
Medical device sales is a highly competitive and demanding field, but it is also very rewarding, so it’s no surprise that many people want to get into this industry and begin their career path.
At Stryker, our sales professionals sell products that improve patient’s lives and for our team, this is not just a job; it’s a career where they grow, develop, and gain organizational influence. If you are interested in helping people lead more active and satisfying lives, we encourage you to learn more about our sales roles and determine if this type of role is a good fit for you.
We connected with our Sales Talent Acquisition Business Partners and asked them to share their advice on the best way to get into sales at Stryker – no matter where you are in your career.
1. Marketing internship
If you are currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree program, consider our Marketing internships. Our internship programs are perfect for talented students looking to gain valuable hands-on experience. Through this experience, you will build a foundation on which to build your career, your abilities, and your dreams. Check out our current internship openings.
2. Sales Operations Rotational Program
The Sales Operations Rotational Program gives talented graduates an early opportunity to advance their careers by helping them garner core business competencies and develop leadership skills. The program is aimed at bright, driven students who want to build a career at Stryker. Individuals will advance from the program with an abundance of marketable skills and a well-balanced understanding of the functions of Sales Operations.
3. Associate-level roles
A great place to start for someone entering (or who recently entered) the workforce, is our Sales Associate or Marketing Associate level roles. These roles typically do not require sales experience and are an excellent place to begin your journey into sales.
4. Leadership skills
Our managers love to see leadership skills. Whether you were a captain of a team, president of an academic group, chairman of your sorority/fraternity, etc., this shows managers that your peers see you as a natural leader, that you are easily coachable, and are able to function as an individual contributor.
5. Sales experience in any industry
While some roles do require sales experience within the medical field, not all sales roles do. However, many will require at least some sales experience. For example, our Mako Product Specialist roles require 2+ years’ experience in a sales and/or technical environment.
If you have prior sales experience, be sure to take a look at our current sales opportunities and check the qualifications for roles that don’t require experience in the medical field.
6. Proven sales success
No matter what field you have sales experience in, it’s important to showcase your sales success. Be sure to include numbers and percentages in your resume/CV (i.e. 200% to quota, ranked 3rd sales rep out of 100, etc.)
7. Build relationships
Don’t underestimate the value of networking and building relationships. Be sure to use your LinkedIn network, connect with other sales reps, and follow medical device companies – this will help you connect with the right people.
Interested in winning with us?
Check out our current job opportunities and apply today!