How as a busy MSL can you prioritize your responsibilities to ensure successful project execution?
It is very important to have a balance between your responsibilities as a field MSL and deadlines to execute projects assigned to you. We all are involved in many projects and pulled in different directions to provide input, share insights and be part of company work streams, but it is crucial to remember that our main priority is field time and KOL interactions. You need to leverage and align some of these projects with your responsibilities in the field as in many instances, it may involve your KOLs among other things. Also, you can work closely with your team members to coordinate priorities and to rely on them for execution while you are busy in the field. Sometimes it is ok to say ‘no’ to a project when you already have multiple priorities or getting input from others, including your manager, on how to best prioritize your workload and projects.
Please share some best practices for developing strong KOL relationships.
Leveraging your KOLs expertise, needs and wants with your organization’s needs in a genuine manner can lead to stronger relationships. KOLs strive for growth and development and be ahead of the curve in comparison to their peers. They also want to be respected, valued and engaged. One best practice I can share is utilizing a KOL by bringing him/her in, internally to present to your colleagues and educate them on a disease state. Giving the KOL an opportunity to meet with Medical Affairs leadership and your MSL colleagues to participate in a discussion and share their views/experiences ensures their perspectives are being heard and valued. Another best practice is to leverage your KOLs with opportunities and projects that they are very passionate about ( community education days, therapeutic updates at conventions, foundation involvement)
How should organizations utilize the resources that are generated from KOL relationships and interactions?
KOLs insights on market trends, treatment guidelines, and real-world clinical experiences are important for organizations to guide current and future strategic plans. KOLs provide insights and understanding regarding treatment and support programs that are of most benefit to patients. Their insights also contribute at any point in the product life-cycle, from research and development to commercial and marketing programs and can guide the organization in understanding habits and motivations for clinical decision-making.
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