Clinic to Corporate: 5 Things I Learned in 6 Months
I had no idea what to expect when I leaped from being a Physician Assistant to working in medical device sales. Six months in, the transition has been challenging, eye-opening, and rewarding in ways I never imagined. Here are 5 lessons I’ve learned so far:
Communication Is Everything
In the clinic, I communicated with patients, families, and colleagues, but in sales, the stakes feel different. Every email, meeting, and presentation is an opportunity to build trust, influence decisions, and showcase value. I’ve learned to tailor my message to my audience—whether it’s a surgeon, a procurement team, or a hospital administrator.
2. Time Management Is a Whole New Game
As a PA, my schedule was dictated by patient appointments and emergencies. In corporate, I’ve had to learn how to structure my day independently. Balancing sales calls, follow-ups, training sessions, and personal development requires a proactive mindset and a solid plan. Tools like CRMs and calendar blocking have been lifesavers.
3. Relationships Are Still the Key to Success
Building rapport with patients as a PA helped me excel in clinical practice. In sales, relationships are just as important—if not more. Whether it’s earning the trust of a surgeon or collaborating with my team, I’ve found that authenticity and consistency go a long way.
4. The Learning Curve Is Steep (but Worth It)
Transitioning to a completely different industry felt like starting over, especially when it came to understanding the nuances of medical devices, sales strategies, and corporate culture. At first, I felt out of my depth, but leaning into the discomfort has been a rewarding experience. Continuous learning is non-negotiable—and honestly, I love it.
5. You Bring More Value Than You Realize
As a PA, I didn’t immediately see how my clinical background would translate to sales. However, my ability to speak the “clinical language,” understand workflows, and empathize with providers has been a huge asset. Healthcare professionals making this transition should know their skills are incredibly valuable in the corporate world.
Final Thoughts
Switching from clinical practice to corporate life has been one of my most challenging and fulfilling decisions. If you’re a PA, NP, or healthcare professional thinking about making a similar leap, my biggest piece of advice is to believe in the value you bring—and be ready to embrace change.