Fuel Your MSL Journey: 7 Career-Boosting Books

By Patrina Pellett, PhD (Follow me on LinkedIn)

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If there's one thing I’ve noticed about aspiring MSLs, it’s that they’re lifelong learners. They’re always hungry to improve, upskill, and go the extra mile to stand out in this competitive field. This passion for growth is exactly what we foster in the Aspire MSL Program. We believe that learning doesn't stop with science. You need to develop communication, presentation, and people skills to really shine.

One of the best ways to upskill outside of the classroom is through books. Reading the right books can help you master soft skills that will not only improve your interactions with KOLs but also give you the confidence to ace your interviews. That’s why we’ve curated a list of seven must-read books that every aspiring MSL should dive into. These books cover everything from negotiation tactics to mastering influence to help you become the kind of candidate hiring managers can’t ignore.

Fuel Your MSL Journey: 7 Career-Boosting Books

1. Job Search Mastery by Tom Caravela

How could this not be the first book on this list?! In Job Search Mastery, Tom, a leading MSL recruiter, offers practical, insider tips on how to navigate the job market. This book walks you through everything from writing a compelling resume to acing your interviews, ensuring that you make a lasting impression on hiring managers. If you’re struggling with how to stand out, this book provides a roadmap for breaking into the field without getting lost in the shuffle.

Don't forget to bring your copy for Tom to sign at the next conference you see him at.

2. The Art of Excellence: Build a Rockstar Career as an MSL and Beyond by Cathy Andorfer

Cathy Andorfer’s The Art of Excellence is a guide for MSLs who want to excel, not just survive. It focuses on the core skills that make a great MSL:

🌟Building relationships
🌟Presenting complex scientific data
🌟Influencing stakeholders

The book offers practical advice on how to transition from an aspiring MSL to a rockstar in the field, making it a great resource to boost your confidence and polish the skills that matter most.

It's also a fan favorite during Aspire MSL office hours!

3. Cues: Master the Secret Language of Charismatic Communication by Vanessa Van Edwards

Communication is everything in the MSL role, and Cues by Vanessa Van Edwards teaches you how to decode and master non-verbal communication. Whether it’s an interview, a meeting with KOLs, or presenting scientific data, this book helps you harness the power of subtle signals to build trust and create impactful connections. Mastering these cues can give you an edge during interviews, helping you make a stronger, more charismatic impression.

4. Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss

The members of The Aspire MSL Program love Never Split the Difference so much that it’s the inaugural book for the Aspiring MSL led book club! Chris Voss, a former FBI negotiator, shares negotiation tactics that apply directly to the MSL role, from managing tricky conversations to navigating job offers. This book is essential for anyone who wants to feel confident in tricky conversations. Whether it's in a meeting with a KOL or getting the right compensation package during the hiring process.

If you are interested in joining Aspiring MSL book club, please reach out. All fellow readers are welcome to join us every other Tuesday at 6 pm ET. 

5. Influence is Your Superpower by Zoe Chance

Zoe Chance’s Influence is Your Superpower is all about learning to wield your natural ability to influence others. As an MSL, your job is not just about sharing information but persuading, inspiring, and connecting with others. This book will help you tap into that influence to drive meaningful conversations with KOLs, nail your presentations, and stand out in interviews.

6. Influence: The Science of Persuasion by Robert Cialdini

A classic for anyone who wants to understand how to persuade and influence effectively, Robert Cialdini’s Influence breaks down the psychology of persuasion. As an MSL, these principles can help you craft messages that resonate with KOLs, hiring managers, and internal stakeholders alike. If you can learn to master the art of influence, you’ll stand out not just for your knowledge, but for how you present it.

7. Good to Great by Jim Collins

Finally, Good to Great by Jim Collins teaches you how to move from being good at what you do to being truly great. For aspiring MSLs, this book offers key insights into leadership, discipline, and strategic thinking. It’s an excellent read for those who want to understand how to develop a mindset that goes beyond landing the job by helping you thrive in the role and contribute to the bigger picture.

Conclusion: Fuel Your MSL Journey With These 7 Career-Boosting Books

These books are not just a list of recommended reading. They’re tools that can help you sharpen the skills that will set you apart in interviews and beyond. Whether you're looking to improve your communication, boost your confidence, or master the art of influence, these reads will give you the edge you need to excel as an aspiring MSL.

Happy reading, and here’s to your growth!

What would you add to this list? There were so many more books we wanted to add! Share with me on LinkedIn or post on the MSL Mastery LinkedIn page.

Join Like-Minded Folks on Your Aspiring MSL Journey

Looking to connect with other aspiring MSLs who love to read and are on the same journey to landing their first role? Join the Aspire MSL Program and get a community of fellow book lovers where we discuss these reads, share insights, and support each other in upskilling. Surround yourself with like-minded professionals who are passionate about growth, and take your transition into the MSL world to the next level. Let’s learn and grow together!