As my grandmother would say
As my grandmother would say,
"Clairey, there are givers and takers"
and a quick way to tell the difference is 👇
to listen to how people speak about others.
Do they lift others up?
Thank those who help them?
Speak kindly about their kids, spouses, friends?
... or do they take all the praise but refrain from paying it forward?
The former carries a lot of water with me.
One of my favorite ways to find people who generously lift others up is to look at their reviews.
>> And not just the reviews they receive
But the reviews they GIVE <<
You can see this, too -- just scroll to the bottom of someone's profile and you can view the reviews Given and Received by that person.
For me, both are illuminating -- though one is slightly more than the other (I'm betting you know which).
Come to think of it -- it's high time I thanked a few people for their help lately. People like: Vicky Russell Matt Zaun Shyana Parr…
What's something you notice about others that builds trust with you?
Here's my test for formatting
Here's my test for formatting:
Stand up and away from your document by 5 or 10 feet and ask yourself:
1. Is it visually appealing?
2. Is the most important and relevant information the first thing your eyes are drawn to?
3. Do you want to read it?
4. Does it mimic the look and feel of your industry?
5. Is it easy to read and follow?
If so, that's a great indicator that the formatting is helping and not hindering your message.
And if you need help, go to my website to download a resume template to get started.
xo
Claire
Do you struggle with talking about gaps or layoffs in your interview?
Do you struggle with talking about gaps or layoffs in your interview?
Most do (I did, too) and there is no shame
...in either scenario.
The next time you're preparing for an interview, try this approach:
Ask yourself --
1// What were you working on or toward in that role
(or role prior to your gap)
2// What stakes were at play? What were you up against?
3// Simply state the reason for your gap/the layoff that occurred
(short and sweet)
4// What did it teach you?
5// How has this new understanding prepared your or clarified your experience as an asset for the next company you're targeting?
Everyone loves a comeback-kid.
Make your layoff or gap work FOR you.
Activate to view larger image,
social media celebrity status may be cool
social media celebrity status may be cool
🌮 but it's nothing on
TACO SHOP celebrity status.
iykyk
So loved our conversation, Ancil Lea
One of my favorites.
Want to listen in on the best 39-minute chat you'll have today?
Ancil is doing great things for people and companies in medical sales.
Thank you, Ancil!
Watch Full Video here:
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/clairemdavis_medicalsalesresumewriter-medicalsalesresumes-activity-7159553627106299904-bjX9?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop
Have your dm's changed?
Have your dm's changed?
Mine have. They used to be filled with
👇
>> “your marketing needs work, I can help!”
>> “your content is ho-hum, I can help!”
>> "want to learn to podcast?"
🫣
Now?
👇👇👇
>> "if you’re hiring, use this AI tool"
>> "want to write better content with AI?"
>> "have you thought about building an AI resume writing service?"
….
I mean...
it just goes to show
that these are bots right?
there's no way they actually read my content.
👇🙃
I’ll never...
ever
ever
EVER
ever
evahhh....
…. use AI to write resumes and linkedin profiles.
>> never <<
Here’s to staying original -- on purpose
(That way, our clients continue to sound and look like no other)
And will AI eventually be scraping my original content
as part of it's algorithmically-generated stuff?
Yes...
but it's hard to fully catch what's always moving.
Happy Friday, all!
xo
Claire
If someone tells you to jump into self-care immediately after a layoff, either they've...
If someone tells you to jump into self-care
immediately after a layoff, either they've...
...never been laid off (without something lined up)
OR
aren't taking your situation as serious as it should be.
Either way, it's terrible advice.
Think of a LAYOFF like a burning house.
IF your house is on fire:
It's shocking
100% an emergency
Going to hurt financially
It's absolutely NOT the time to:
>> to go get a massage
>> to take up goat yoga in your living room
>> to dance around and sing Lizzo's "Special" for a day and take your foot off the gas
And while self-care is important LATER -- it is NOT a priority when your wallpaper is curling and you're tapping doorhandles for heat on the way out.
Nope.
Not yet.
It IS time, however, to grab your 'go bag' and 'get outta that house.'
And by 'go bag' after a layoff, I mean 2 specific things:
1// YOUR CONTACTS
2// YOUR METRICS
Sit down and write out everyone you know,
grab your database that you developed,
download the numbers and
wins that you generated.
These things are your insurance policy for the future.
They will save you in that next interview with Smith & Nephew
when they ask you "so, how much revenue/volume growth did you achieve, and how?"
They'll be your lifeline after that computer is shut off and mailed back to Home Office when you're trying to network with those on the inside and sending thank you notes and reviews (Traction Clients, ikyk).
(and if you're on my email list, you'll soon find out e x a c t l y how to do this on Saturday, too. I've got you)
So grab a seat, a pen, and paper -- and write. it. all. down.
This is your Exit Plan.
Your Personal Escape Hatch.
Your Fire Squad at the Ready Should the Worst Happen.
And once you've done that
it's self-care time.
And hey,
if you know that you may need this 'go bag'
what's stopping you from gathering these things before su casa is aflame?
Take it from someone who's been through 5 of these.
Contacts
Metrics
Self-Care
(In that order)
xo
Claire
Watch the Full Video here:
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/clairemdavis_if-someone-tells-you-to-jump-into-self-care-activity-7158828874842148864-5Na4?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop
If you’re using high-falutin’ language on your resume, you’re losing people
If you’re using high-falutin’ language on your resume, you’re losing people.
A 5th grade reading level and clear explanations of impact is where MOST of your document should be.
this is the sweet spot for people absorbing messages
It's science.
You can add your industry vernacular, yes -- but keep it simple, to-the-point, and relevant.
BONUS: This also applies to video as Chris Bogue mentioned in MedTech militia roundtable
link to my full recording with Chris
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/claire1348/episodes/How-to-Stand-Out-From-the-Crowd-w-Chris-Bogue-e1vp1u9/a-a9ulfi7
Keep it Simple + Specific
xo
Claire
I'm not for everyone
I'm not for everyone
but clearly, I have a 'type' 😅
And while much of my "Market-Yourself-As-You-Would-Your-Product-To-Get-The-Job-You-Want," that I teach MAY apply to everyone...
My first love is medical sales
and here's why:
You should only COACH on what you know from many angles and real experience.
There.
I said it.
So for those who want MY comeback-so-strong-in-medical-sales-or-after-a-layoff-your-buddies-ask-where-you'd-been-storing-all-that-swagger SYSTEM for:
1// Surviving 5x layoffs and bouncing back fast (AND NOT with 'self care' as your first stop)
2// Becoming the Internal Referral at a Dream Company even when you're 'outside industry'
3// What 16,000 Medical Sales Resumes proved MUST be on your resume to sell you on paper
⚡ This ain't my first rodeo ⚡
I've been in this for DECADES as:
1// Ex-Pharma Head Hunter
2// Former Medical Sales Professional (*ahem* oncology physician liaison, etc. ✌️😉)
3// Award Winning Resume Writer (and my team are, too!)
4// Cum Laude Marketing and Advertising Grad from THE best journalism school -- E.W.Scripps at @Ohio University (Go Cats!)
5// 5-Time-Layoff-Bouncer-Backer
…6// And NOW I'm IN the hiring seat (cue Lion King's "Circle of Life")
______________________
What I'm saying is, I've got you C-O-V-E-R-E-D from all sides
...like your scrub tech buddy who texts you the surgery schedule, morning-of...
...or the Starbucks barista who keeps a list of the 'usual order' from your top referring office
...like the angel on your shoulder...
______________________
That way, when you spent all morning stocking fridges with 'kits' and are waiting for that case to start but last week your boss whispered the outcomes data didn't look good so you see the writing on the wall...
you've got a lever to pull.
.me.
And, I'm saying "It's going to be okay. This isn't the end of you. Let's keep movin'."
______________________
Hi, I'm ✒️Claire M. Davis🖋️
And after 16,000 Medical Sales Resumes, riding 5X layoffs in the medical sales industry, and helping 105 of 110 clients land roles last year -- I'm feeling pretty solid that I can sort out your complicated career story for you.
I've heard it all. Trust me.
So if you're looking to...Get In...Get Back In...Stay In...Medical Sales -- and you need a hand, send me a DM.
I'm ready to make this a whole lot easier on you.
Love videos but hand aching? POPSOCKETS
Love videos but hand aching? POPSOCKETS
Need a ride but fam and friends busy? UBER
Dehydrated and can't find an icy garden hose? STANLEY
Inventors -- innovators -- aren't just visionaries, they're observers.
They recognize where the problems are and ask:
Where are the gaps?
What can I solve?
What's needed?
And while it may seem like these things are character traits and unreachable for most of us, from what I gather, it can be a learned skill, too.
Check out this episode with Gail Lebovic, MA, MD, FACS as she walks us through HOW she became the surgeon/inventor/successful businesswoman she is today.
Watch Full Video Here:
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/clairemdavis_todaysmedicalsalesleader-medicalsalesresumes-activity-7157016912806240256-eTA-?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop
Want to listen to more of Today’s Medical Sales Leader Podcast?
Someone you coached 8 days ago asks for 8 min
POV: Someone you coached 8 days ago asks for 8 min.
bc he used your networking method and 🥁🥁🥁
landed an interview with his target company
in 8 DAYS
... and from an outside industry.
I know applying online is all the rage
And that 'easy apply' button seems sexy
BUT how about we start minimizing applying
to overcrowded job boards and start maximizing
our time on networking and building industry relationships.
it works.
promise.
5X layoff survivors don't lie.
Just sayin'. ✌️
And if you're STILL not sure,
ask someone in medical sales
how they found their last few jobs.
🔮
You'll know it when you hear:
"well this gal I knew from..."
or
"so, I had this friend from..."
or
"my old boss..."
____________________
Try it out 😉
In fact, how about YOU?
How did YOU find your favorite job?
Your brain can either HELP you find a job or HIDE job opportunities from you
Your brain can either HELP you find a job
or HIDE job opportunities from you.
It all depends on...
...influencing your subconscious.
(whoa...here she goes, people. here comes the psych babble.)
Listen, who here likes a velvety smooth Mercedes?
or a Tesla? Or a 👉 Toyota 👈 🙋♀️ (the ultimate, perfect driving machine, obvi)
The point is this.
You've probably experienced the Inflated Frequency Effect that happens when you start thinking about buying a specific model of car.
Suddenly those cars are ALL OVER the road, right?
This happens if you're expecting your first child, too.
Suddenly there is something in the water
and EVERYONE is having a baby.
This is called cognitive bias or the Baader-Meinhof effect.
And what's better?
You can USE this to find your next medical sales opportunity -- subconsciously.
But there's a trick to it (read on)
Recently, I had a consulting client reach out because he wasn't getting bites after applying to dozens of healthcare companies over 6 months. It was crickets and ghosting all day.
He was transitioning in from real estate and "open to anything."
But the brain is a master filter -- curating our perception of reality by focusing on -- you guessed it -- a specific target.
So I told him to pick ONE target and continue networking.
(crazy right?)
Not so.
Once he did, his brain subconsciously started LOOKING for these things bc he decided it was important.
Even when he didn't realize it.
So set a target he did: CRISPR technology companies
So the brain did what it does best and CURATED his world -- highlighting what he wanted when it was present.
Things he would have normally overlooked.
Suddenly, all he noticed were CRISPR technology roles. Everywhere.
They were popping up more frequently than Rogaine commercials after clicking on JUST ONE WIG AD on Amazon (it was for a party! sheesh!)
And you can do this, too.
The result?
He called me 8 days later. Not with leads -- but with an INTERVIEW with a hiring manger at one of the CRISPR technology companies on his Top 5 list.
Boom.
It's psych at it's finest and it works.
Put your brain to work for you.
What do YOU want to find today?
Most wait until they're in fight or flight mode to write their resume
Most wait until they're in fight or flight mode to write their resume
(scroll down to hear the actual thought banter that ensues)
and that's why it feels like climbing a 🏔️
it's only natural
When we're happily employed,
writing our resume gets a 'do not disturb' sign on the door.
But once there's a:
>> layoff
>> promotion
>> our friend gets a raise
...suddenly...
it's GO time.
But likely, this is when your creativity and recall just won't "GO".
Why is this?
When you're under this pressure
in fight-or-flight or at "comparison junction"
your brain is wired for survival ... not higher thinking.
introspection?
recall accurate numbers?
developing wins relevant to our target?
not happening
Cue procrastination, distress, and thought banter like:
"...Where did I put my coffee, it was hot 5 minutes ago but it'll be cold when I find it, dang I keep losing it, oh wait now I need my slippers, I could really think better with some chips in a bowl, these chips are stale, do I switch to Takis?, Was I 98% to plan Q1 or 2? you know this isn't very fun, I'll call Joe and see what his resume says and see if I can borrow it, shoot I forgot to send him a Christmas card and I can't just call in a random favor like THIS...ugh...
just. not. happening.
Right?
So today, if you're happily employed.
Today is the time to update your resume.
BEFORE you absolutely need it.
And if you're stuck without a job right now -- grab a template or a resume writer.
That way, you can focus on your networking, interviewing, and finding that cuppa Joe.
Hang in there.
xo
Claire
LEADERSHIP: the Formula + the Flaw vs. the Fix
LEADERSHIP: the Formula + the Flaw vs. the Fix
>> The Formula <<
The old way of promoting to leadership is straightforward ... but fundamentally flawed.
SOUNDS LIKE: You've hit PClub. Now, go lead a team to do the same. Aka -- do well and you're primed for promotion.
REALITY: FFW 6 mo. and now you're leading a team of five but feeling shaky and anxious without guidance on the art of leadership itself. You may start to withdraw or use force to achieve the heavy stretch goals you've been given from the top.
>> The Flaw <<
This method banks heavily on the idea that expertise in a specific area translates to effective team management. And now, you can't go back for pride's sake or what it'll look like in your next interview to rebound back to sales, right?
SOUNDS LIKE: Just share with everyone what you did in your territory. They should just try it the same way in theirs -- all strategy and implementation, no consideration of communication types, work types, strengths, etc.
REALITY: What got you results as a sole contributor is often different than the communication, empathy, and strategic thinking that's required to lead others.
Okay, but we know this.
We've all said "your manager will make or break you."
but what happens when WE become the manager?
Now what?
>> The Fix <<
Step 1: Recognize the gap and assess if leadership IS what you want -- and forgive yourself if being a sole contributor is 'your thing.' It's a great path!
(Hey, it was for me, too)
Step 2: Square with the idea that it's time to learn to lead. What can you skill up on to get you there? Leadership is not gained by solo wins -- it's a distinct skillset that needs nurturing. There's a big difference in skill between a great worker and a great leader.
Behind the curtain -- I never wanted to lead. Not really. But when it was required, I was an entrepreneur and was getting steeped in the ultimate 24/7 leadership conference there is ... LinkedIn.
I knew that leadership was something I had to learn so I started to do so.
So HOW do you do it intentionally?
>> Check out my Today's Medical Sales Leader episode with Becky Wolfe to find out <<
[🔗 in comments]
Becky Wolfe offers a veritable mini-masterclass on better understanding your peers and leading from that deeper understanding.
And listen, I'm greatly oversimplifying here but if you really want to lock in some leadership chops today -- listen to this episode.
Becky shares great insights AND examples that will make you reconsider whether you really "get" your teams or colleagues -- or if you're hanging your leadership hat on what made you successful solo.
Check it out: 🔗 in comments.
And thank you Becky!
__________
And once you do -- tell me: Who are you? A creative? A guardian? Something else?
What would you guess for Becky and myself?
Watch the Video:
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/clairemdavis_medicalsalesresumewriters-medicalsalesresumes-activity-7155566885021831168-OgVZ?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop
F r e e advertising from LinkedIn?
F r e e advertising from LinkedIn?
Well hey, thanks!
We’ll take it ❤️
F r e e and affordable resources and templates 🔗 from me in the comments
Happy Saturday, everyone! ✌🏼
Never in my wildest DREAMS did I think
Never in my wildest DREAMS did I think
that I'd be posting this 📦
(Any guesses?)
Having been a rock show gal since I was a tween --
You know: Coheed, RHCP, Dave, Cake, Steely...
I always lingered by the merch table. Wistfully
scanning the band shirts and buttons but
never actually spending any $money$
on them. Those $60 sweatshirts
were always a biiiiiiiit out of
my reach (especially
between layoffs).
(though why on earth I let that merch table go cold at a Neil Young concert ... still kicking myself)
but I digress...
My first 'merch' EVER was a Paul McCartney shirt from his tour about 8 years ago through Sacramento.
Also, I learned his nickname is "Macca"
And it felt like a total splurge
(I don't even put that shirt
in the dryer. iykyk.)
😎
But never in my WILDEST dreams did I ever
believe that I would have MERCH of my own.
And today
well
I do.
It's real.
🪩 🕺
So first, I just want to thank everyone who weighed in on what the perfect logo/color/style of this merch would be -- from the Traction Resume Team to my Resume Writer buddies to the MedTech Militia crew to my mom.
I took in ALL your feedback and have, imho, the perfect FIRST merch.
And by perfect, I mean there's no such thing -- but merch that exists feels like a perfectly good win this January.
And today, TWO of my wonderful clients are getting SURPRISE FIRST DIBS!
⭐️ One for his kind referral and going the extra mile in his networking.
⚡️ And one for winning her dream job after investing and believing in herself.
LinkedIn fam:
I'm so dang proud.
Happy-tears-at-USPS proud.
So celebrate with me, eh?
And tell me: What's the best merch you've ever splurged on?
(and what do YOU think is in this shiny new merch mailer? For the first correct guess, I may just send you some so you can revel in this fun mini milestone with us, too.)
Imagine it's you
Imagine it's you. In a hotel elevator.
And the guy next to you in the Calvin zip-up
just happens to be the decision maker for the diagnostic sales job you want
turns out -- this isn't just a story
it's a case study
why?
...
bc this
happens
ALL the time
...
Watch this video for 2 ways to MAINTAIN your resume so that when that right moment puts you and the person you need to know in the same room -- you're focused on what they're saying, INSTEAD of where your resume is hiding on your desktop or if it's updated.
_______
Want more actionable advice to keep your resume at the ready?
________________
And if YOUR resume happens to have
the top spot on your to-do list
to get that health tech, device, biotech, pharma, or diagnostic job you were meant for --
but is the LAST thing you want to do.
DM me.
2 spots left in January.
xo,
Claire
Want more actionable advice to keep your resume at the ready?
Watch the Video:
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/clairemdavis_imagine-its-you-in-a-hotel-elevator-and-activity-7153770618331484160-t2nh?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop
Something I greatly admire
Something I greatly admire
in people are when they
speak kindly about
others.
While it may
sometimes go
unnoticed, you’ll
start to see a pattern.
When it’s truly genuine,
these people become good
magnets to which others
align. That kind of good is in
short supply at times — and it’s truly,
wonderfully contagious. Sentiments
shared simply and thoughtfully
and remembered a lifetime.
I’m absolutely honored by this
kind note and what’s more, by the
wholehearted person behind it.
Shawn Vinson is a gifted,
people-first leader, who
deeply cares about
others. He can
regularly be found
celebrating his team
and lifting them up through
great times and tough — being
that magnet for good that’s so needed
in the complex healthcare industry.
Thank you, Shawn, for being a
terrific example of what real,
authentic leadership is
all about. We’re your
biggest fans over
here and oh so glad
that you’re at the helm
in this industry. Thank you!
Claire + the Traction Resume Team
"Claire, I almost... had to unfollow you"
"Claire, I almost...
had to unfollow you"
...he joked. 👆😅
(a client of mine in December)
"But seriously, every time I'm on LinkedIn
You're there in my feed.
You're everywhere!"
Coincidence?
no way.
I want you to see me.
Here. There. Everywhere on social.
It's a selfish reason, really.
👇
Bc the more of you are in the roles you enjoy
The significantly better healthcare the rest of us can receive
As more providers and hospitals have more resources and support
So what?
👇
Well...an MD saved my life in 2016 with lifesaving tech he needed to fix a 2-day DVT.
And
he could not have done it w/o the rep who introduced, supplied, and supported him with the technology.
👆
So, am I grinding it out every day on LinkedIn
(and soon YouTube, Matt Zaun)?
All day.
I'm not here (just) for the fun of it.
I'm here to reach a specific stretch goal:
My goal is to help 150+ Medical Sales Professionals land the 6-figure roles they rave about by 12/31/2024
...with resumes and linkedin profiles that sell YOU like YOU sell a product in the last month of Q4 of a product launch.
It's go time.
Will you be next?
When one person told me this, I was shocked
When one person told me this, I was shocked
But a half-dozen? ...now, I'm curious
👇
In the last 2 years, 6 clients have mentioned to me that they tipped their sales trophies in the trash
(or felt like doing it)
... on the way out of the NSM.
Can you relate to this?
Shocking, right?
I mean...
They earned these awards
Brought in beaucoup bucks for the organization
Helped thousands upon thousands of patients and providers
So what IS the deal?
I had to ask them
Here's the gist:
"I'm not in this for the trophy.
I'm in it for the people."
patients
providers
colleagues
But my favorite?
A VP of Sales told me:
"I'm always going to work harder than anyone else. That's for me. I'm wired that way. But the real win? A real win is if at the end of that long conference day, after the speeches and the presentations, and the planned events, and the bad coffee -- that at least one or two of my team wants to go grab a bite to eat and tell me about what's been going good in their life because work is humming. If I can make someone else successful, that's what really gets me going."
>> There are lots of ups and downs in sales.
>> Lots of people who'll tell you you're a winner or loser.
>> 10 ways to 'close them deals' or 'push through challenge.'
...but once the quarter is over, what is the real win?
What does it for you?
Last year, a Regional Sales Director came to me because his resume wasn't getting interviews
Last year, a Regional Sales Director came to me because his resume wasn't getting interviews. He said he didn't think his resume sounded 'smart enough.'
He was in diagnostics
And as in any industry
There's complex vernacular
Specialized industry-only jargon
Ways to 'put it' that only sciencey salespeople get
...
But when I took a look, his resume was full of specific industry language, acronyms, and high-falutin' adjectives.
The resume was losing it's punch in a sea of jargon.
And the interviews just were't bitin'.
...
It's not about showing every technical term you know or industry buzzword.
Using $1,000,000 words, when a fiver will do.
It's about clear, concise communication
and your unique VALUE > Jargon
...
In the end, we stripped away most of the fancy language and instead, focused on his System for Success using language that was accessible, yet professional.
The result?
A resume that sounded smart AND approachable.
(ahem...let's officially term it "interview-able")
...
When you're marketing yourself,
just as you'd market your product,
simplicity and relevance are the ways
to making a powerful, professional impact.
...
And tell me if you resonate,
I find that when someone can break a complex idea down for me in simple terms -- "it's like..." -- I trust them more and their credibility increases because the barrier to my understanding is removed.
Simple sells.