10 must-read business books for MSLs
We asked our friends to recommend their favorite business books for Medical Affairs. Want to see the list? Read on!
An absolute classic. Tyler Whisman at Medical Affairs Weekly wrote: "this book will help improve your social interactions in any setting. If you want to be successful, you must be aware of the lessons in this text." A can't-miss for MSLs.
Our friend Maaike Addicks at School of Medical Affairs says, "this is one of the most emotionally intelligent books I know." No Hard Feelings is a visual guide to embracing your emotions, achieving authenticity and finding fulfillment while staying professional. ❤️
Suggested by Matt Lewis at Inizio, this book will teach you how to build small habits that build over time to create a tremendous impact for your organization, customers and patients. No matter your goals, Atomic Habits offers a proven framework for advancing your career every single day.
Another classic. Recommended by Christine Ong at Talmedica, this book will help you uncover the psychology behind why people say "yes" and learn how to ethically apply these principles in working with your HCPs. Don't miss this one!
In this first-rate book, Tom Caravela at Carolan Group guides you through coaching sessions to master every aspect of your job search in Medical Affairs. He will educate, inspire and motivate you every step of the way. Looking to elevate your career? This one's for you. 👍
From our friend Paul Ward at BeiGene, For Blood and Money reveals the untold story of how an upstart biotech developed a one-in-a-million cancer drug. When the team was denied their fair share of profits, they picked themselves up and did it all over again. Absolutely riveting.
Suggested by Michael Pietrack at the Pharmaverse Podcast, read this one to collect those karma points. Deeply heartfelt and meditative, The Go-Giver will help you pay it forward and make an extraordinary impact on the world around you. ❤️
From Mitch D'Rozario at Genentech, this one's for MSLs with eyes on executive leadership. Do you display confidence and credibility? Can you command a room? This book spills the secrets on how to develop a warm, executive presence. Make the leap from working like a boss to being the boss.
Another one from our friend Tyler Whisman, this book explains how you can make a terrific impact as an MSL. Godin writes: "Every day I meet people who have so much to give but have been bullied or frightened enough to hold back. It's time to stop complying with the system and draw your own map. You have brilliance in you and your contribution is essential." Soul-stirring. 🙏
A New York Times bestselling author, Daniel Pink says the image of salesperson as used car salesman is outdated and no longer exists. Truth be told, we're all in sales. And as Ralph Rewers at Gilead says, "We all sell something in the MSL world." Packed with tips and tricks for MSLs, this is a can't-miss!
Bonus recommendation
A sharp-eyed reader suggested "The Medical Science Liaison Career Guide: How to Break Into Your First Role," by Dr. Samuel Dyer at the MSL Society. One reviewer wrote: "Absolutely thrilled with this book. It’s a must-read for anyone aspiring to enter the pharmaceutical industry as an MSL."
That's our list. Did we miss your favorite? Got your own recommendations?
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What we're reading
MSL Talk podcast, "Demystifying and unpacking omnichannel engagement" with Donnie Wooten at Organon, July 23, 2024
The MSL Journal article, "Subscription KOL databases in (Field) Medical: status quo and what’s next?" by Marcus Bergler, July 12, 2024
Christine Ong LinkedIn post, "Is the high cost of Medical Science Liaisons justified? Let's talk about it." June 19, 2024
MSL Talk podcast, "Job search mastery...how to WIN your dream job," June 13, 2024