Okay, this is probably the most cliched advice ever. But before you roll your eyes and close your laptop in disgust, hear us out.

You may feel like you’re already doing everything you possibly can in your job search. You’ve polished your CV, tailored your applications, and sent them off to every junior medical writer job you can find. But here’s the thing: your dream company might not be hiring right now. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t get on their radar.

If you’ve found a company that ticks all your boxes (exciting work? Attractive benefits? Thriving company culture? Check check check!), don’t let a lack of open positions stop you. Reach out with a thoughtful, personalised cover letter that highlights your enthusiasm and explains why you’d love to be part of their team. Show them what makes you unique and how you can add value.

And don’t stop there. Persistence is key. Follow up after you’ve sent your application. Give them a call, send a handwritten letter, or even record a short video introducing yourself. A creative approach can set you apart from other candidates (though abseiling into their offices might be a step too far).
Another way to get noticed? Build connections. Reach out to team members on LinkedIn or attend industry events to meet people face-to-face. Ask insightful questions that show you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in medical writing.

Taking initiative shows potential employers that you’re motivated, resourceful, and ready to go above and beyond; qualities that any great junior medical writer should have.

We get it. You want to prove you’ve got what it takes to become a junior medical writer. Your CV is likely filled with tried-and-tested phrases like “excellent attention to detail” and “a good team player.” While these are admirable qualities, they tend to lose impact when every other candidate is saying the exact same thing.  

That’s why it’s so important to let your personality shine through. Employers aren’t just looking for skills; they’re looking for someone who will bring energy, passion, and individuality to their team.  

One great way to showcase your personality is to attend networking events or industry socials. These settings give you the chance to meet agency employees face-to-face and leave a positive impression.  

Remember, hiring teams often rely on gut instinct when making decisions. Being authentic and honest can make all the difference; you could be exactly what they’re looking for. So, ditch the generic phrases and let your enthusiasm and individuality shine in your applications and interviews. It’s your personality, after all, that will leave a lasting impression.

Medical writing is a truly rewarding career, offering limitless opportunities for growth. Whether you see yourself as a publications pro or medical advertising aficionado, the possibilities are vast. But before you even begin your journey as a junior medical writer, it’s crucial to recognise your natural abilities and consider how they can help you flourish in your career.

Knowing your strengths and being able to articulate them to potential employers will give you an edge at interviews. It shows drive, ambition, and a clear sense of purpose; qualities that are invaluable in this field. Employers want to know not just what you’ve done, but what you’re capable of achieving.

And don’t let a lack of experience hold you back. Every expert was once a beginner. Instead of focusing on what you haven’t done, reframe the narrative to spotlight your potential. Think about what excites you and where you naturally excel. Are you particularly creative? Do you thrive under pressure?

If you’re unsure, ask a friend or use tools like the VIA Character Strengths Survey to identify your unique attributes. By confidently communicating your strengths, you’ll demonstrate the mindset, attitude, and ambition needed to succeed as a junior medical writer. Even without direct experience.

The road to becoming a junior medical writer is paved with self-doubt. You might find yourself thinking, “I don’t know what I’m doing” or “It’s impossible to get my foot on the ladder.” These thoughts stem from a fixed mindset: the belief that your abilities are static and can’t improve. While these thoughts might shield you from the discomfort of taking risks (like reaching out to that editorial director on LinkedIn), they can also hold you back from reaching your potential.

A growth mindset, on the other hand, is the belief that skills and abilities can be developed through dedication and effort. In the fast-evolving world of medical communications, embracing a growth mindset is crucial; not just for your personal career progression but also to stay relevant and adapt to industry changes.

Starting as a junior medical writer isn’t easy. You’ll face a steep learning curve, mastering everything from industry jargon to complex therapeutic areas. Your first drafts will likely come back covered in track changes (don’t worry, we’ve all been there!). But that’s where growth happens. Every piece of feedback, every revision, and even every mistake is an opportunity to learn and improve.

So, approach your new role with curiosity and openness. Accept that mistakes are inevitable; they’re a sign that you’re challenging yourself and expanding your capabilities. As you persevere, you’ll build resilience and develop the skills you need to thrive in this rewarding career.

One of the best ways to stand out from the competition as an aspiring junior medical writer is to actively invest in your professional development. Taking the initiative to upskill shows prospective employers that you’re serious about your career and ready to hit the ground running.

The medical communications industry is growing rapidly, and with it, the number of mentors and training providers designed to help newcomers enter the field. Whether you’re looking to refine your writing skills or gain a deeper understanding of the industry, investing in the right training can give you a vital edge.

At Monster Academy, we specialise in entry-level training to help you unleash your medical writing potential. Our fully remote, flexible, and industry-recognised courses cater to a variety of needs and budgets.