Episodes
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In this episode, we tackle a critical topic for anyone looking to break into or advance in Medical Affairs: crafting the perfect CV or resume. Your CV is more than just a list of your accomplishments—it's your ticket to the next big opportunity. This episode covers the essential differences between a CV and a resume, helping you decide which format is right for your job application.
We'll dive into the nuances of Medical Affairs, a field at the intersection of clinical research, regulatory affairs, and commercial strategy. Learn how to create a headline that acts as your personal brand statement and captures the recruiter’s attention right from the start. We’ll discuss how to translate your clinical experience or research background into a strategic narrative that aligns with Medical Affairs roles, emphasizing transferable skills and a clear value proposition.
You'll discover how to highlight your accomplishments, not just list your duties, with actionable tips on using metrics to quantify your impact. We'll delve into the importance of keywords for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and how to naturally integrate them into your resume to ensure it gets noticed. Additionally, we'll talk about the significance of education and certifications, and how showcasing continuous learning can make you stand out in this competitive field.
This episode also offers real-life examples and tips for tailoring your CV to specific roles, even if you’re transitioning from a different background. We’ll discuss the importance of formatting and organization, ensuring your CV is clean and easy to read. And let's not forget networking—learn how to leverage your connections to get your resume in front of the right people.
By the end of this episode, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of how to create a Medical Affairs CV or resume that tells your unique story, showcases your skills, and resonates with recruiters. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the field, these tips will help you craft a document that stands out in the digital age.
Tune in to refine your CV and get one step closer to your next opportunity in Medical Affairs. -
In this episode, we’re diving deep into the heart of landing a job in Medical Affairs. Whether you're transitioning from clinical practice, academia, or another scientific field, we’ve got you covered! Join me, Dr. Philip Cruz, as we kick off Season 2 of The Pharma Medic Podcast, where we’ll walk you through the mental and practical strategies to help you succeed in this highly competitive industry.
We’ll begin by tackling the critical step of mental preparation—a game-changer for anyone trying to break into Medical Affairs. How do you build the confidence, resilience, and focus needed to ace interviews and stand out from the crowd? I’ll share valuable insights, including how you can apply the Japanese philosophy of Ikigai to find your purpose and align your passions, strengths, and career goals.
Next, we’ll explore practical strategies to handle tough interview questions, like communicating complex scientific data to non-experts. I’ll introduce you to the STAR method for answering questions with clarity and impact, ensuring that your responses are structured and memorable.
We’ll also touch on the concept of Zanshin, another Japanese philosophy, which teaches you to stay present and maintain composure under pressure. Zanshin helps you handle the unexpected during interviews, adapt to feedback, and remain mentally sharp even after the interview is over. These philosophies provide a solid foundation for navigating the challenging yet rewarding path into Medical Affairs.
Whether you’re preparing for your first interview or aiming for a leadership role, this episode has something for you. Tune in and get ready to land that Medical Affairs dream job! -
Missing episodes?
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In this milestone final episode of the inaugural season of thepharmamedic, Dr. Philip Cruz dives into a topic that can make or break your day at work: cultural differences in the workplace. From the nuances of high-context versus low-context communication to the complexities of power distance, individualism vs. collectivism, and even how different cultures view time, this episode is packed with insights that will help you navigate the global workplace with ease. You'll also learn about the importance of understanding cultural references—whether it's American football or cricket—and how to celebrate cultural diversity in the office. Plus, get tips on avoiding common pitfalls in international gift-giving. Whether you're managing a diverse team or just want to improve your cultural fluency, this episode is a must-listen. Don’t miss out on this engaging and informative wrap-up to a fantastic first season!
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In this episode, the discussion focuses on "Navigating Stress in a Medical Affairs Career". The key points include the importance of resilience, nurturing relationships, and staying true to one's mission. Stress in medical affairs arises from high responsibility, regulatory compliance, and workload management. Practical scenarios and solutions are provided, such as breaking down tasks, delegating effectively, and maintaining clear communication. The concept of work-life integration is highlighted over work-life balance, with an emphasis on self-care and setting boundaries. Common mistakes in the field are addressed, including building one's identity solely around their career, neglecting self-care, and seeking validation through professional roles. Listeners are encouraged to prioritize self-care, manage time efficiently, and maintain a personal mission statement. The episode concludes with a reminder to strive not only for professional excellence but also for a well rounded life.
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Choosing a career in medical affairs isn't just about the work you do; it's about the lives you touch and the legacy you leave. Lead with passion, embrace vulnerability, and let your integrity be your guiding star. In Episode 6, I’m pivoting to a new format to help you understand, plan, and visualise a career in the pharmaceutical industry. By the way, The Pharma Medic now has an official mailbox! Email me your thoughts, insights, and feedback at [email protected]. Let me know what topics you’d like me to cover as we wrap up the first season with two more episodes. Today, I'll share insights from my journey as a medical director and the lessons I’ve learned. When I started, I didn’t have a podcast to guide me or mentors to approach. I charted my own course with excitement and passion for science. My path wasn’t laid out, but I knew I wanted to make a meaningful impact on patient lives. Discover the 10 steps to a successful career in medical affairs.
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In this episode of The Pharma Medic Podcast, host Dr. Philip Cruz dives into the complexities of navigating ethical challenges in medical affairs. With over 20 years of experience, Philip shares real-life examples and insights on maintaining integrity, transparency, and patient-centricity in high-stakes environments. From managing conflicts of interest and ensuring scientific integrity to balancing commercial interests with patient welfare, this episode offers practical strategies for fostering a speak-up culture and handling ethical dilemmas. Join us to learn how embracing transparency and encouraging diverse ideas can lead to breakthroughs and drive continuous improvement in the pharmaceutical industry.
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In this special episode of The Pharma Medic Podcast, Dr. Philip Cruz explores the transformative power of feedback and its pivotal role in career progression. Reflecting on his own experiences, Dr. Cruz shares how embracing constructive feedback significantly improved his presentation skills and advanced his professional growth. He also discusses listener feedback on the podcast's audio quality, purpose, and audience clarity, showcasing his commitment to continuous improvement. Tune in to discover how feedback can be your personal GPS, guiding you to new skills and better performance. Learn practical tips on seeking, accepting, and acting on feedback, and how the 90-second rule can help manage emotional responses. Whether you're navigating traffic or enjoying a walk, this episode offers insights to inspire and motivate you toward becoming the best version of yourself.
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In this episode of The Pharma Medic Podcast, host Dr. Philip Cruz explores the critical importance of resilience in healthcare. Drawing from his extensive experience in medical affairs and overcoming challenges in local, regional and global functions, Philip shares practical insights and real-world examples of perseverance and adaptability. Learn about building a supportive network, celebrating small victories, and embracing setbacks as learning opportunities. Discover how collaborating with key opinion leaders and leveraging digital tools can enhance patient outcomes. This episode is essential listening for healthcare professionals on the frontlines or those considering a shift to medical affairs, offering valuable lessons on navigating program or project challenges and fostering a resilient team. Tune in to gain wisdom from the frontlines and find inspiration to thrive in this demanding field.
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In the dynamic world of the pharmaceutical industry, medical affairs serves as the bridge between clinical innovation and patient-centric care, redefining how we approach science and health.
Join Dr. Philip Cruz in this episode of The Pharma Medic Podcast as he explores the evolving role of medical affairs. Philip shares the transformation from clinical practice to strategic corporate roles, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, building strong relationships, and staying patient-centric. Through real-world examples, he illustrates the impact of medical affairs in product launches, navigating market dynamics, leveraging data and analytics, and embracing digital engagement. Discover how emotional intelligence and continuous learning drive success in this field and get insights into future trends like personalized medicine and AI integration. Stay curious and inspired as Philip delves into the mission of making a broader impact in healthcare. -
In the inaugural episode of The Pharma Medic Podcast, host Philip Cruz shares his inspiring journey from a paediatrician in the Philippines to a successful career in medical affairs. This episode is crafted for those considering or beginning their path in this dynamic field.
Philip recounts his early clinical days, his growing interest in healthcare systems, and his transition to medical affairs. He highlights impactful roles, such as overseeing paediatric vaccines in emerging markets and leading global initiatives during a pandemic. The episode underscores key themes of resilience, adaptability, and emotional intelligence, offering practical tips for aspiring professionals on leveraging clinical experience, developing business acumen, and embracing continuous learning.
Listeners are encouraged to stay curious and seize opportunities, as Philip emphasises that in medical affairs, professionals are not just creating medicines but making a significant difference in global health.
