New MSL? 6 Ways to Impress Your Manager in Your First 90 Days

Starting a new Medical Science Liaison role? Your first 90 days can shape how your manager and team see you long after onboarding ends. In this episode of the \*\*Pharmaverse Podcast\*\*, host Michael Pietrack sits down with \*\*Lee Ann McDowell, PharmD\*\*, an experienced medical affairs leader with 15 years in industry, including 11 years as an MSL and six years leading MSL teams. Lee Ann shares \*\*six practical ways new MSL hires can impress their managers, stand out during onboarding, and build a strong foundation for long-term success.\** You'll learn: • Why being prepared means more than completing your assigned training • How to master your product, competitor data, science, tables, and graphs • Why managers notice MSLs who are proactive instead of waiting for direction • How curiosity can separate an average new hire from a standout MSL • Why going beyond the training manual matters • How setting goals demonstrates initiative and ownership • Why your existing skills can bring unexpected value to an MSL team • How speaking up and contributing during team meetings builds trust • What MSL leaders notice when a new hire isn't keeping pace • How to make the most of your critical first 90 days Lee Ann also shares the story of a candidate whose first presentation fell flat, but who took feedback, studied, improved, and ultimately became one of the best MSL hires she ever made. Whether you're an \*\*aspiring MSL preparing to break into Medical Affairs\*\*, a newly hired MSL navigating onboarding, or an experienced MSL joining a new organization, these strategies can help you demonstrate your value from day one. \*\*The six takeaways:\** 1\. Be prepared 2\. Be proactive 3\. Go beyond what's given 4\. Set goals 5\. Let your skills shine 6\. Jump in and contribute What do you think is the most important thing a new MSL can do during their first 90 days? Share your experience in the comments. Subscribe to the Pharmaverse Podcast for more conversations about MSL careers, Medical Affairs, leadership, professional development, and succeeding in pharma and biotech.