6 Proven Ways to Get Into Medical Sales Without a Sales Background

Medical sales is one of the most competitive and rewarding industries to break into. With the potential for six-figure incomes, flexible schedules, and the chance to make a real impact on patients' lives, it's no wonder so many professionals are asking the big question: how to get into medical sales—especially without a traditional sales background.

Here at David Bagga Company, we’ve helped thousands of candidates from all types of backgrounds land lucrative jobs in medical device sales, even those with zero sales experience. Whether you're coming from healthcare, engineering, or even education, breaking into this field is absolutely possible with the right strategies.

Let’s dive into the 6 proven ways to get into medical sales without a sales background.

1. Understand Why You Want to Be in Medical Sales

Before diving in, get clear on your motivation. Do you want financial freedom? Are you passionate about healthcare innovation? Do you enjoy solving problems and building relationships?

Medical device sales isn’t just about selling—it’s about educating healthcare providers, offering value, and helping improve patient outcomes. This field offers:

• Unlimited growth potential

• Flexible schedules

• Strong relationships with medical professionals

• High earning potential – According to MedReps, the average medical sales rep salary in 2018 was $92,698 in base pay, with bonuses averaging $63,318.

• Making a difference in healthcare

This clarity will not only fuel your drive—it will help you communicate passion and purpose to future employers.

2. Get B2B Sales Experience (Even Short-Term)

One of the fastest routes into medical device sales is starting with a business-to-business (B2B) sales job. Even 6–12 months in a tough B2B environment can be a game-changer.

B2B sales roles teach:

• Prospecting and cold calling

• Handling rejection

• Territory management

• Closing deals under pressure

Hiring managers love B2B-trained candidates because they’ve already developed core sales skills. Even if you’re not coming from sales, look for roles that allow you to interact with clients, manage accounts, or generate leads.

3. Invest in Medical Sales Training Programs

While not mandatory, enrolling in a medical sales training program can help bridge the gap between your current skills and what recruiters are looking for. Training programs cover:

• Medical terminology and anatomy

• Healthcare regulations and compliance

• Selling techniques for hospital and clinic environments

• Interview preparation and resume building

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Just a heads-up: not all programs are created equal. Some are expensive and may overpromise. Always do your research, read reviews, and understand the ROI. The David Bagga Company provides guidance on credible training options and even helps candidates build personalized learning paths.

4. Optimize Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile

Your resume is your first impression, especially if you don’t come from a traditional sales background. Focus on transferable skills such as:

• Communication and persuasion

• Problem-solving

• Relationship building

• Strategic thinking

• Presentation or teaching experience

Include metrics and accomplishments wherever possible. On LinkedIn:

• Use a clean, professional profile picture

• Include the keyword “medical sales” in your headline and experience section

• Share relevant content or follow industry leaders (David Bagga Company)

Many hiring managers check LinkedIn before contacting candidates—make it count.

5. Start Networking Like a Pro

Did you know that up to 85% of jobs are filled through networking?

The medical sales industry thrives on relationships. Start building yours by:

• Connecting with current medical sales reps and recruiters on LinkedIn

• Joining online groups like Medical Sales Network or Medical Sales Career Builders

• Attending virtual or local industry events and conferences

• Reaching out to alumni in medical sales for advice and referrals

When networking, don’t immediately ask for a job. Start by asking questions, offering to learn, and being genuinely curious. David Bagga Company has a strong LinkedIn presence and regularly shares job opportunities and career tips—follow and engage!

6. Prepare to Win the Medical Sales Interview

Interviews in the medical sales space are rigorous. You need to show hunger, grit, coachability, and a willingness to hustle. Prepare by:

• Practicing with the S.T.A.R. method: Situation, Task, Action, Result

• Creating a 30/60/90 day plan to show initiative

• Building a brag book that highlights your achievements

• Studying the company's products, competitors, and market positioning

• Rehearsing responses to objection-handling questions

Employers want reps who are proactive and solution-oriented. Show them you’ve done the work—even without direct sales experience. And remember, the David Bagga Company offers tailored coaching and mock interviews to boost your confidence.

Bonus Tip: Know the Market and Product Types

Medical device sales reps call on a variety of call points—from hospitals to private clinics to surgical centers. Familiarize yourself with product categories such as:

• Orthopedic implants

• Surgical instruments

• Cardiac monitoring devices

• Diagnostic equipment

• Capital equipment (MRI machines, etc.)

The U.S. medical device industry is the largest in the world, generating over $90 billion a year and offering more than 90,000 jobs annually. With that kind of demand, the right candidate with a winning mindset can absolutely break in.

Final Thoughts

Breaking into medical sales without a traditional sales background isn’t just possible—it’s happening every day. At the David Bagga Company, we’ve helped career changers, military veterans, nurses, teachers, and recent graduates land jobs in medical device sales.

It starts with knowing how to get into medical sales the smart way. By taking ownership of your learning, developing the right skills, and showing relentless drive, you can turn your ambition into reality.

If you’re serious about launching your career in this high-paying, high-impact industry, follow us at David Bagga Company—we’re here to help you every step of the way.