We’re Talking Cover Letters and Including a Sample for You!
One major difference in using a recruiter or not using one is how you’re being presented to the company (Hiring Manager and/or HR). When working with a recruiter, we submit your resume but also send over a specialized summary that showcases why you’re a fit for that specific role. When applying directly, the only way to present yourself in a similar manner is to include a cover letter with your application.
In this blog, we’re going to focus on how you can set yourself apart with your cover letter, and how to best present yourself when applying to a role directly. We’ll also have a sample cover letter that you can view and use as a guide for yourself.
After a poll was conducted at a previous NAPS conference we attended, it was found that on average, HR only spends about 30 seconds reviewing a resume. If someone only has 30 seconds to review, why not show them a summary that’s specific to their opening, versus sending only your resume and leaving them to put the puzzle pieces of your background together?
A lot can be missed if you’re solely relying on your resume to tell your story. This can include job changes, layoffs, a gap in employment, therapeutic crossover that relates to the role and similar geographies that you’ve covered. In addition, you always want to include the type of KOLs that you have relationships established with, Centers of Excellence, conferences you’ve attended, special projects or leadership opportunities that you can leverage in the new role, and so much more.
A cover letter is also what can set you apart from your competition. Job seekers tend to use “Easy Apply” on LinkedIn or apply directly with just their resume. When you submit a cover letter as well, you can expand on your experiences, which your competition likely is not doing.
If you run into the dilemma of applying and not being able to attach more than one document, we have a tip for that as well! Make your cover letter the first page of your resume and do a page break with your resume to follow. Save that as a new document and use that as a single attachment when applying.
Crecia spoke a lot about the value of a cover letter and the basics to keep in mind in a previous blog. You can view that here! Using that info combined with this blog as a guide, let’s put together a sample cover letter that you can view to get started:
Aspiring MSL Sample Cover Letter
Dear (Hiring Manager or HR),
I am excited to apply for the Medical Science Liaison position at (Company Name). With extensive expertise across (therapeutic areas you have experience in), and a strong passion for advancing medical education, I am confident in my ability to contribute meaningfully to this team.
Currently, as a (Current Position), I have had the opportunity to collaborate closely with KOLs in (relevant therapeutic areas), within (relevant geography), and I am eager to leverage this existing therapeutic knowledge and professional network to adapt seamlessly to the (therapeutic area at the new role) space. I am confident in my ability to bridge any scientific gaps, and quickly get up to speed, ensuring success in this role.
I deeply admire the pivotal role MSLs have in advancing medical knowledge and patient care, which motivates me even more to pursue this opportunity. I am excited about the possibility of contributing to your team and would be happy to relocate if necessary.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to speak further about how I can add value to (Company Name). If you need any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
(Your full name)
(Your contact info)
Experienced MSL Sample Cover Letter
Dear (Hiring Manager or HR),
I am thrilled to submit my application for the Medical Science Liaison position at (Company Name). With (years of MSL experience) years of MSL experience in (therapeutic area/s), a passion for building strong professional relationships, and a proven ability to thrive in a demanding, multi-state territory, I am eager to contribute to (Company’s) mission and success.
In my current role with (Current company name), I support (Product or compound names and indications), within the (current territory/geography) area. My experience has provided me with a deep understanding of (disease state) therapeutics and the ability to deliver impactful clinical and scientific support to healthcare professionals. Throughout my career, I have cultivated strong relationships with leading (Therapeutic KOLs), which I am eager to leverage in this role at (Company name).
I would welcome the opportunity to further discuss how my expertise and enthusiasm align with (Company’s) goals. I appreciate the consideration for my application and would love to be considered for this team.
If you need any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
(Your full name)
(Your contact info)
We know this year has been tough for job seekers, so we hope these tips and samples help in your application/interview process. If you need any additional info on cover letters, or there’s another topic you’re wanting help with, please leave that information in the comment section below!
-Ashley