The most difficult parts of being an MSL and how to overcome them

In this episode, Tom Caravela speaks with Jonathan Horvath about his career journey and insights from the Rutgers fellowship program. Jonathan discusses the complexities and challenges of the MSL role, including organization, territory management, and building relationships with key opinion leaders (KOLs). He addresses internal pressures, performance metrics, and shares strategies for effective time and travel management to combat MSL burnout. The conversation explores navigating different KOL personalities and preparing for meetings. Jonathan also reflects on adapting to COVID-19 and future interactions, offering final advice for aspiring and current MSLs.

My guest today is Jonathan Horvath, former Director of Field Medical Affairs at Dova Pharmaceuticals and we discuss the most difficult parts of being an MSL and how to overcome them.

In this episode we discuss:

• Jonathan’s background


• One of the most challenging parts of being an MSL in his perspective


• KOL access


• The internal pressures and how to overcome


• Other challenges and difficulties that MSLs should be aware of to try to stay on top


• His advice on “MSL frustrations”


• Advice for MSLs moving into 2021 hopefully coming out of COVID pandemic for them to perform well and get through the challenges


• One piece of advice for MSLs to help them find success

(0:00) Introduction and guest background
(1:03) Guest career journey and Rutgers fellowship program
(3:12) Understanding the MSL role and challenges faced
(7:19) MSL organization, territory management, and KOL relationship building
(16:20) Dealing with internal pressures and performance metrics
(21:17) Strategies for effective time and travel management
(24:51) Addressing MSL burnout and frustrations
(28:08) Navigating KOL personalities and optimizing meeting preparation
(30:23) Adapting to COVID-19 and future MSL interactions
(35:22) Final advice for MSL success