Anyone ever gone through Pharmaceutical Sales Certification course through NAPSRx?

How many managers out there looking to hire someone because of a CNPRS certificate? It is a waste of time and money and will not do a thing to get you a job in the industry that you can not do yourself. Look at the posts on this site. The positive ones towards CNPRS come in waves of people posting all at the same time from across the country all touting how good a course it is and how they all got a job because of it.....BS- YOU DON'T NEED ANY STUPID CERTIFICATE TO BREAK IN TO THE INDUSTRY. Don't believe me? Ask people that are reps and not people off this site and see what they say.....I can guarantee that none of them will say it was because of any course-

Here's a response off Forest Laboratories and the reps who's name appears as a "CNPRS Success"

www.cafepharma.com Forest Labs blog
I think these testimonials are bogus, I work for another pharma and they used my name just spelled it a little differently and listed my company on there as if I has used them when I ABSOLUTELY DID NOT I think a lot of it is made up!

Wow. Very eye-opening. I've been a retail pharmacist for the last 16 yrs. and was thinking of going into sales. Seems a bad time in general for such a change. Was hoping my B.S. and experience might give me a 'leg up'. Not so sure now. Have had no job responses in the Indianapolis area for the last 2+ weeks. I tend to believe the overall consensus that the NAPRx cert. is not a wise investment for me at this point.

Joyce in Los Angeles, California said: Hi, I may be interested in purchasing these manuals, can you email me at allee@tmail.com so we can discuss the details.

Thanks!

I have an extra NAPRX, National Pharmaceutical Sales Representative Certification book if anyone is interested? They send me 2 for some reason and I obviously only need one haha... E-mail me at glove2sl@cmich.edu for more information.
-Samantha

Samantha in Saint Helen, Michigan said: I have an extra NAPRX, National Pharmaceutical Sales Representative Certification book if anyone is interested? They send me 2 for some reason and I obviously only need one haha... E-mail me at glove2sl@cmich.edu for more information.
-Samantha

I'm interested, can you email me at acmason1@live.com

I was mulling over the NAPRX training course for the past few months but after reading some of these posts I'm not so sure if its the best time for this investment. I've also read on other boards most pharma companies have never heard of NAPRX nor does give applicants any leverage whatsoever. I have a hard time believing this is actually true but I could be wrong. Furthermore, I've heard for the first time in 50 years the pharma industry will be declining in 09. I would contend there will be cutbacks and hiring freezes. My mother is an RN and she always tells me how her hospital maybe working at a loss come December due to lack of funds from the increasing uninsured or those patients who forgo medical assistance because of the expense. I would have to imagine this affects the pharmaceutical industry in some way or another. Secondly, what will President Obama's health care initiatives have on the industry? Lastly, my state has been hit extremely hard by unemployment due to the automotive industry collapse (14-17% unemployment)and I just don't feel this is a very opportune time to invest in something I'm a bit skeptical about. I may just stick to graduate certification through local universities which has an established track record. Feel free to comment.

There are several pharmaceutical companies still hiring quite a few new reps. Certainly, when they have new pharmaceutical products in their product pipeline and then those products come to market, hundreds of new pharmaceutical reps need to be hired. There are some truths that a few of the larger pharma companies lost their steady stream of new products and their new hiring has slowed. The Obama health plan is going to do nothing but increase the demand for pharmaceutical products with so many new patients being able to afford or be covered by prescription benefits. The NAPRx has a good track record and recognized name. It is a personal decision on your behalf on whether or now you want to go into this industry.

I worked inside pharmaceutical sales for several years with 2 outside reps coving almost all of the state of LA and half of MS. I broke in with no prior training but background in sales. They started me out calling dead accts in the midwest before giving me one of the most lucrative areas in the nation. I started in the animal medical field where most employees are former disgruntled vet techs. Benefits, perks, pay are great! It is a very comprehensive education (on the job) as most drugs and procedures go thru animal medical prior to human usages. Often these are blind ads under sales or professions.

Looking for a used NAPRX, National Pharmaceutical Sales Representative Certification book, contact me at acmason1@live.com
thank you.

ACM in Queen Creek, Arizona said: Looking for a used NAPRX, National Pharmaceutical Sales Representative Certification book, contact me at acmason1@live.com
thank you.

You dont need this to get into the industry....here is the best advice and investment you can possibly get: Insider's Guide to the World of Pharmaceutical Sales by Jane Williams - BUY IT!!!

Megan-P in Naples, Florida said: I know our company, GlaxoSmithKline, has job postings on the NAPSRX website. I am a sales mgr. and would like to receive resumes for CNPR Graduates for the Southern U.S. Region. My email is glaxosalesmgr09@aol.com

I am a 45 yr. old single Mom of two, who is looking into getting the CNPR certification to hopefully aquire a job in pharmaceutical sales within the South or SW florida territory. I have been in business management pretty much all of my adult life and feel that I would excel in a position such as this. Where should I take this course? I've heard mixed things concerning this course, can you give me some valuable insight?

Greatly Appreciated,
Theresa

trebon in Naples, Florida said: I am a 45 yr. old single Mom of two, who is looking into getting the CNPR certification to hopefully aquire a job in pharmaceutical sales within the South or SW florida territory. I have been in business management pretty much all of my adult life and feel that I would excel in a position such as this. Where should I take this course? I've heard mixed things concerning this course, can you give me some valuable insight?

Greatly Appreciated,
Theresa

I have also forwarded my resume to your e-mail.
Thanks much for your time and possble consideration.

Theresa R.

I think that because GSK honors the program that you should take it.

Since GSK uses the NAPRx I would use the program.

The CNPR Certification is a good idea for anyone looking to get into pharmaceutical sales.

noel in Bloomfield, New Jersey said: Hello

please anyone, i would like to complete my BA with devry. Has anyone attended that school and which degree would you recomend to start in this field.

I heAR YOU NEED A BA AND SOME EMPLOYERS DOES NOT REQUIRE IT. CAN YOU REALLY GET THE JOB IF YOU FINISH YOUR BA? DOES IT HAVE TO BE IN THE MEDICAL BACKGROUND OR ANY MOJOR.

I am working with a girl in the Houston area launching Trump's new pharmeceutical grade business. She finished the NaPRx and told me she was very frustrated with applying for careers for pharmeceutical companies. She had commented on how many people apply every today to break into this career. At any rate, she may be joining me in the Trump pre-launch. It pays both bonuses and commissions. It is a new start up company and you can position yourself to earn a minimum of $50,000 per month. We will go worldwide next year after the November National launch and media blitz. It has been exciting working with like-minded individuals that love the challenge of the pharmeceutical sales world but can't seem to get an interview. It may be more rewarding than trying to get past the nurse station to get 5 minutes with a doctor? I can put you in touch with Rachel if you want to discuss an honest reaction to the NaPRx. I believe she said she was in the human resource division for a company at one point, so she knew why so many experienced individuals can't seem to get an interview. If you are interested in the pharmeceutical grade supplement and in-home testing for estrogen, stress, food allergies, ect. with the Trump brand I can send you training. You can decide if you have the skills that would transfer to the Trump business. Mary getcookinginc@yahoo.com

nsb318 in Livonia, Michigan said: I was mulling over the NAPRX training course for the past few months but after reading some of these posts I'm not so sure if its the best time for this investment. I've also read on other boards most pharma companies have never heard of NAPRX nor does give applicants any leverage whatsoever. I have a hard time believing this is actually true but I could be wrong. Furthermore, I've heard for the first time in 50 years the pharma industry will be declining in 09. I would contend there will be cutbacks and hiring freezes. My mother is an RN and she always tells me how her hospital maybe working at a loss come December due to lack of funds from the increasing uninsured or those patients who forgo medical assistance because of the expense. I would have to imagine this affects the pharmaceutical industry in some way or another. Secondly, what will President Obama's health care initiatives have on the industry? Lastly, my state has been hit extremely hard by unemployment due to the automotive industry collapse (14-17% unemployment)and I just don't feel this is a very opportune time to invest in something I'm a bit skeptical about. I may just stick to graduate certification through local universities which has an established track record. Feel free to comment.

Interesting points you bring up! I am working with a girl in the Houston area launching Trump's new pharmeceutical grade business. She finished the NaPRx and told me she was very frustrated with applying for careers for pharmeceutical companies. She had commented on how many people apply every today to break into this career. At any rate, she may be joining me in the Trump pre-launch. It pays both bonuses and commissions. It is a new start up company and you can position yourself to earn a minimum of $50,000 per month. We will go worldwide next year after the November National launch and media blitz. It has been exciting working with like-minded individuals that lov

I would apply to Astellas, Novo Nordisk, Sanofi Aventis, inVentiv Health, PDI, GSK, Novartis as they are all hiring for pharmaceutical sales and hire entry level applicants as well.

Do applicants with a real estate background have an extra edge? But here is the dilema, no degree, but tons of college credits and wondering if CNPR® Program is worth my time and effort at this point.
Thanks

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH

It is pretty difficult to break in the business right now. I have many pharmaceutical reps that are leaving their corporate positions to start Trump's new pharmaceutical grade line (to be announced on Oprah and Larry King late this Fall). If you are interested in this lucrative start up with a powerful brand name- please contact me at getcookinginc@yahoo.com. I can send you a preview of the company and its compensation plan. You can decide if your skills in real estate and your interest in the medical field will tranfer to this preimum position. Mary

Hi Mary,

I am not currently interested in any MLM's at the present time. But Thanks.

caligirl2 in Morgan Hill, California said: Hi Mary,

I am not currently interested in any MLM's at the present time. But Thanks.

Hi,

I am short 8 credits from my double batchlors of Science in Business and Administration with almost 20 years experience in front and back office Medical and 20 years in Sales and I also took the course. That was two years ago and still can not get an interview unless I have my BS degree. I would not waist the time or money on this program if you do not have a college degree.

There are several key things you do need when trying to land a position as a pharmaceutical sales rep. I also do not know of any recruiters that are looking for the NAPSRx training. You need to have an impressive resume to get you an interview, then you need to have the interviewing skills to get you the job. The materials in this course give you everything you'llneed to have the edge and win out on your competition. www.PharmaRepConnect.com

Hello Everyone,
I am a Registered Nurse interested in persuing a position in Pharma Sales. I'm also interested in Pharma Studies, new med development, ect. I'm another person "on the fence" about the NAPRx class and exam. Wondering if having RN Licensure would help me to get into this field? Are there many RN's employed by Pharma companies?

leving in New York, New York said: No, you absolutely must have a 4 year degree to get into pharma. That certificate is a waste of time and money. Im a 5 year District Manager and pharma only hires people with a bachelor's degree. It also doesnt matter what the degree is in.

Great info! Are you hiring in upstate NY? If so I'd love to speak with you. I have a 4 year bachelor's degree, studied mostly Medical Technology, and am a top performer in the industrial sales market; yet I have a strong desire to get into the pharmaceutical sales industry. Please feel free to contact me at kendra.hamilton@us.army.mil
Best regards,
Kendra

Lisa Lane in Jackson, New Jersey said: I have been a pharma sales consultant since 1999 and have helped thousands break into pharma sales....I network with recruiters, work with job seekers, current reps, managers in the industry, etc. Never ever in my entire career as a consultant or while employed in the industry have I ever heard of anyone ask for, or prefer a certified applicant. When I see the certification number listed on a resume....I never let the applicant know that I feel that they have wasted their time......But in my head I am saying.....You poor thing....If you had only spent your time wisely networking, and getting your resume into the right hands rather than taking this course, you would probably have a much better chance at landing interviews by now. In a nutshell, I like to think of this course like this.....Pharma managers are looking for a certain type of individual to fill their openings, they are looking for college grads with a 4 year degree, leaders, achievers with a history of successes in life. They are not advertising that they want individuals who have read a book and taken a test online.....by the way....cant anyone take a test online? Save your time and money.

Do you work the upstate NY area? If so, I'm interested in speaking with you. If not, can you recommend a recruiter that does?
I have the degree, a proven sales record in industrial sales, but no contacts in the pharma arena yet. If you are available to speak with me, please contact me at kendra.hamilton@us.army.mil

Jason in Maumee, Ohio said: Sorry for the typo in the last sentence. It should read as "...it's not something that is transferable to another line of work.

Hi Jason,
I like you have a background in sport medicine, MS exercise science. I have not been able to use this background to make a living fo r some time . I have recently started to focus on pharma sales as new career. Every book I have purchased on the subject say do not bother with pre-employment certification . They will train , or you can post employment certify. By the way do you know any reps in your area. I am trying to network in ohio

Ami in Mount Vernon, Ohio said: Hello Everyone,
I am a Registered Nurse interested in persuing a position in Pharma Sales. I'm also interested in Pharma Studies, new med development, ect. I'm another person "on the fence" about the NAPRx class and exam. Wondering if having RN Licensure would help me to get into this field? Are there many RN's employed by Pharma companies?

Hi Amy

I like am working to break into Pharma sales, I read numerous books by the experts who say don't bother with the certification pre hire. From my research sales back ground will be your only weakness. Your medical training will really help. I have an an MS in exercise science, not in that field currently. My wife is an RN. Everything i have read says , know the company, products, study,network, and prepare, prepare, prepare. Once in they will train you

sandrad1003@yahoo.com in Bolingbrook, Illinois said: Would I need a 4 year degree for veternarian, pharma or medical sales? I have about 2.5 years and I'm currently working on my bachelors. I have over 15 years sales experience business to business. I'm around 49 years old. Thanks for your help.

I am courious about any responce you got I am in the same boat as you. 51 years old and 20 years of sales/management experiance and 3 aas degrees.
Please respond to timjarman1701@gmail.com

Yes, you'll definitely need a bachelors degree along with exceptional interviewing skill.

Bob Kozec
Founder, Pharmarepconnect.com

Yes, you do need a 4 year degree for pharma sales and no, you dont need the certification. I dont recommend it to people with a degree...if you dont have the degree, you will be wasting your time and money.

To your success,
LISA
[Contact information has been removed by a forum moderator]

09hamilton in Lewisville, Texas said: I worked inside pharmaceutical sales for several years with 2 outside reps coving almost all of the state of LA and half of MS. I broke in with no prior training but background in sales. They started me out calling dead accts in the midwest before giving me one of the most lucrative areas in the nation. I started in the animal medical field where most employees are former disgruntled vet techs. Benefits, perks, pay are great! It is a very comprehensive education (on the job) as most drugs and procedures go thru animal medical prior to human usages. Often these are blind ads under sales or professions.

Are you still working in Lewisville? I'm in arlington, trying to break into pharma sales. Any advice?

Now filling premium positions in a pharmaceutical home based career. This company and power brand has got the attention of experienced Pharmaceutical Trainers, Medical reps, and even some retired represenatives who are looking for financial freedom with no limits put on their success. There is some serious money to be made in this revolutionary product line. Compensation is bonuses and commissions of $20k+ per month for those that emerge as leaders. Training is done by weekly product webinars and conference calls with top producers. If you are interested in the pharmaceutical career and home based position, contact Mary at getcookinginc@yahoo.com. I will email you an overview of the testing and product line done out of Metemetrix labs.

Hey!

I am very interested in pharmaceutical sales field. I do not have a 4 year degree but I have been in the dental field for 12 years. How do I get started? Is there any courses in the Oklahoma City area that I can take? I have been reading the posts from everyone and half say take the CNPR training course and the other half say don't waste the time and money. I would like to finish my degree but it is hard to juggle work and family with school. I would only be able to take a couple of classes a semester. It would take me forever to finish my degree. I am looking for a career change from what I am doing now but I do want to stay in the medical or dental field. Is there any advise from anyone?

You can email me at getcookinginc@yahoo.com about the home based pharmaceuticals career. Regards- Mary

I took the course and it was very informative and certainly help me land my first pharmaceutical sales jobs with Innovex. When I was interviewing with Innovex (I also interviewed with Sanofi-Aventis)they really stressed how technical the pharmaceutical industry is and how important it was to have industry training and be certified. If you want to break into pharmaceutical sales I would advise getting your CNPR certification.

Responses like this are written by the companies that sell the course. You do not need this course to get into the industry. You do need a Bachelors degree, preferably a BS and a proven sales background obviously is helpful.

Bob Kozec,Founder
PharmaRepConnect.com

I am sorry but if you believe these posts from people trying to sell their books, such as Bob from PharmaRepConnect, you should not be in pharmaceutical sales because you are too naive. The CNPR Certification can be taken at over 300 colleges, the NAPRx works directly with PhRMA as well as over 178 pharmaceutical companies, you can call our companies toll free, and we also have a full staff to help you. Who do you believe, Bob who works out of his basement wiht no phone number and sells you a book or a program endorsed by companies and colleges?
www.gatlineducation.com

LOL. Ok folks, that should be all the proof that you need right there, what I said about these ads for NAPRx are submitted by the companies themselves is true. Why would such a company get upset by my comment and respond the way gatlineducation did? Because I'm right, thats why. Hey, whoever at Gatlineducation posted that comment feel free to call me any time, here's my number. Well, I tried to post this with my number but they wont let you submit your phone number so here is my email. Bob@Netprofitathome.com Send me an email and I'll reply with my phone number. I'll follow up and let you all know if they emailed me, since they are so eager to get my phone number.

Bob Kozec, Founder
PharmaRepConnect.com

If you are looking to work directly with a company to improve your chances of getting into this industry I would suggest contacting someone that will evaluate your resume for free as Ms. Danforth stated she will do for you in a previous comment. It's very obvious Gatlineducation is one of the companies pushing the NAPRx training.

Bob Kozec

I was just made aware of this blog from someone. If you want to really evaluate Bob's comments look at his email, Bob@Netprofitathome.com He seems to be some kind of work at home deal. By the way I just emailed him.

Wow, This just keeps getting better! Yes, Brad Sullivan did email me and he represents himself in the email as somone associated with the Nation Association of Pharmaceutical Sales Reps.

Brad must really think the readers of this forum are pretty dumb. I give you much more credit. I think you'll be able to come to the obvious conclusion given these facts....

My original comment was based on a comment supposedly made by an individual stating that the NAPRx certification will help you get a position as a Pharma Rep.

Now I'm getting responses from this Brad clown who signs his email with national association of pharmaceutical sales representatives. Ok people...If NAPRx does not have people making posts to this forum and have people monitoring the posts, why is this guy's feathers so ruffled and why is he emailing me about my posts. Ah, maybe because the posts are by them, you think?

Thank you Brad for now making it very clear to everyone! : )

As far as your comment about my email address....I own several companies. Netprofitathome.com being one of them. This company helps people that are interested in a home based business get started as well as current Network marketers already in the business grow their business with our one of a kind marketing system. But that had nothing to do with my post Brad, You are the one who posted that I didn't give any contact info so I was givinig you my email address. Why dont you just go away, we all now know who you are and what you are trying to do here.

Bob Kozec

Samantha in Saint Helen, Michigan said: I have an extra NAPRX, National Pharmaceutical Sales Representative Certification book if anyone is interested? They send me 2 for some reason and I obviously only need one haha... E-mail me at glove2sl@cmich.edu for more information.
-Samantha

I am interested in purchasing your most current extra or used manual. What is the year (if it matters) and your price? I'd also be interested in any comments you have about the manual and the test. I am no spring chicken and am making a career change. I hear that this field is very promising. Please email me at salliemollie@msn.com or donna.manuel@att.net. Thanks Samantha

Susie said: I took the course and it was very informative and certainly help me land my first pharmaceutical sales jobs with Innovex. When I was interviewing with Innovex (I also interviewed with Sanofi-Aventis)they really stressed how technical the pharmaceutical industry is and how important it was to have industry training and be certified. If you want to break into pharmaceutical sales I would advise getting your CNPR certification.

How long did it take you to complete the course? Just curious as to the timeframe involved with studying and exam completion. I'm trying to get it done by year end and then begin my job search in the new year. Also, how is the exam administered?
Thanks,

I currently live in FL, but there's a VERY strong possibility I'll be moving to MI within the next 6 months. I'm currently employed in the financial services industry and have a 4 yr degree & master's degree. I'm 35 and even though my degrees are not science/sales related, I've been working in sales for nearly 10 years now and also the majority of my elective courses in my undergraduate program focused on science including healthcare ethics, med terminology and anatomy/physiology. My two internships were both hospital-based as well. I'm considering the CNPR. Does anyone know how long the certification process is (approximately)? How is the exam administered? And how much more difficult is it going to be for me to start looking for jobs out of state come Jan? I'm very interested in a career in pharma sales and want to know how realistic this is considering my situation. Any advice or suggestions are appreciated. Thanks!

Hello? Isn't anyone reading previous posts to this forum? If you have you would have learned that the posts made by people saying how useful the NAPSRx is in landing a job in Pharma sales are being made by NAPSRx representatives themselves like the clown named Brad Sullivan. Save your time and money. You do not need this course if you have what it takes to land a job in this Industry.

I interviewed with Innovex for a pharmaceutical sales rep job and they required the CNPR. Most companies look for the CNPR Certification if you are applying and interviewing with no previous pharmaceutical sales experience.

Thanks Elizabeth! I'll definitely pick up the rocation myself. I guess I'm mostly concerned about the long distance interview/hiring process. I have about 6 months and I'm trying to spend my time wisely and get everything in order. I need to stay at my current job at least until year end so I'm using the next two months to research, complete my resume & take the CNPR course/exam. Do you think the fact that I'm relocating myself will be seen as a huge negative vs hiring a candidate who's already living in the area? Or is more of the right fit that will out & I shouldn't be too concerned over that issue?

A good friend & neighbor is a rep for J&J and she's offered to help me & give me insight, etc. She'll be a valuable resource no doubt. She mentioned Pfizer and Eli Lilly just announced a 50% reduction--which means there will be another 10,000 or so unemployeed pharma reps in the next month or so. This does concern me.

I'd hate to start interviewing for a job in FL to only move 1/2 way through the process unless that's an advantage somehow. It's a tough spot. If I'm not able to get hired, but still move anyway (highly likely due to personal reasons), do you have any suggestions on what might be my next best move as to a stepping stone so that perhaps once I do get settled in MI I'm a better suited candidate? Thanks again!

Will Phamaceutical Tech program(The understanding of the drug you represent as well as understanding the docter your so politely playing golf with)along with a 4 year degree will help my chances of getting into the industry? Great Forum by the way.