If you’ve been seeking a new role recently you’re probably no stranger to the requirements listed on the applications.
You might be wondering “Should I apply if I don’t meet the requirements?”, the answer depends on a lot of factors.
With some sectors, there are many articles online that encourage you to apply even if you aren’t meeting the ‘required’ qualifications on applications, emphasizing that it’s acceptable to demonstrate your transferable skills, adaptability, and commitment to continuous learning. In healthcare and medical sales, it works a little differently. At IQVIA, our job requirements are non-negotiable.
When it comes to health sector jobs, meeting requirements and demonstrating your qualifications on your resume is crucial to ensure patient safety, provide high-quality care, and maintain industry compliance.
At IQVIA, our mission is to drive healthcare forward, helping create a healthier world. Our employees are the center of everything we do so it’s crucial we can see that their qualifications and experience match our roles from initial application right the way through to the offer stage.
What is the difference between required and preferred qualifications?
Required qualifications
In job applications, ‘required’ qualifications are the essential skills, experience, education, and certifications that a candidate must have to meet the recruitment requirements and progress through to the next stage of the hiring process.
‘Required’ qualifications are non-negotiable and are necessary for carrying out the duties of the role successfully.
Preferred qualifications
‘Preferred’ qualifications are any additional skills, work experiences, or certifications that you’ve gained throughout your professional career that are beneficial to performing the duties of the role but not mandatory.
Some job applications will also list ‘desirable’ qualifications or skills. These skills can be seen as a bonus to have and can make your resume stand out more to potential employers. While they are typically weighted less heavily compared to ‘required’ or ‘preferred’ qualifications, they are seen as an added advantage.
Why are qualification requirements important?
When you’re searching for your next opportunity, make sure that you are meeting the ‘required’ qualifications - if you don’t have them for a particular role you’re viewing, we suggest refining your search and finding things you match the requirements for.
Specific qualifications on job listings tell a story of what type of candidate the employer is searching for. Qualifications and certifications are important to your potential employer for several reasons:
- They demonstrate your determination and commitment to applying your skills to long-term courses, degrees, or projects.
- They show employers you have the specialized skills and knowledge needed to perform your job duties to the highest standard.
- They showcase your dedication to your chosen career path and willingness to pursue extra learning opportunities to build up your professional profile.
The Role of 'Required' Qualifications in Healthcare Jobs
Whether you’re already a skilled healthcare or medical sales professional or you’re looking to make your next career move, ensuring your background meets the requirements of the application is vital.
Depending on the nature of the role, qualified healthcare professionals must possess the necessary skills, qualifications, and knowledge to diagnose, treat, and manage patient conditions according to tailored treatment plans. Having expertise in these areas minimizes any risk and ensures patients can receive the most effective treatment ultimately leading to better health outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Furthermore, as the healthcare industry is highly regulated, meeting required qualifications ensures that professionals adhere to regulatory requirements and maintain the most up-to-date licenses and certifications.
Some of the main areas we look for at IQVIA are the type of University degree you possess as well as specific experience from your number of years in sales. We assess our applicants’ degree level, pharma sales background, business-to-business (B2B) sales experience, and specialty disease state experience.
IQVIA’s top tips on breaking into healthcare jobs
If you’re reading through this article and wondering what the next steps are to break into healthcare so you can meet the requirements, we’ve compiled a few pieces of advice:
- Research entry-level healthcare jobs that offer you the opportunity to gain more experience and further enhance your understanding of your chosen career route.
- Make sure you have a solid understanding of the qualifications you need to step onto the career pathway.
- Take industry-recognized courses that demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning and development.
- Keep your finger on the pulse of industry challenges, trends and developments, especially in medical sales, MedTech, and pharmaceutical drug advancement,
Make a difference at IQVIA
It’s crucial when you apply to demonstrate how you meet all of the required criteria for performing the role. This shows your potential employer that you’re suitable for the position, especially when working in healthcare.
If a career in the health sector appeals to you, make sure to research what industry-recognized qualifications you’ll need to work on before applying to different roles.
If you already think you’ve got what it takes to join us on our mission of driving healthcare forward, browse our latest job opportunities.
