Thursday, February 26, 2009

Reports from the AAOS Annual Meeting

When the meeting began yesterday, someone told me that they'd heard the number of surgeons attending the AAOS was down significantly. Today it was a different story.

Due to the climate of economic uncertainty, many companies scaled back the number of representatives they sent to the AAOS this year. The result is that the people who are there staffing the booths are very, very busy.

Mid-day today, the report from the Linvatec booth was that it was busy. All the surgeon stations, where the doctors can try out the new products, were full and had been all morning. Linvatec's power products were garnering a lot of attention, in particular the MPower system and the React blades. The MVP- Most Versatile Suture Passer - continues to grow in popularity. Interest was genuine and leads are strong.

Friday, February 20, 2009

AAOS in Las Vegas

The annual meeting of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons is taking place this year in Las Vegas. Linvatec sales reps were given an opportunity to "win their way" to Las Vegas this year by selling a targeted amount of products in different categories.


If you are going to be at the AAOS next week and would like to learn more about opportunities with our company, please let me know right away. You can reach me at LMcCallister@Linvatec.com

I would be happy to send you more information and arrange a "meet up" with someone on our team. Here are a few of the immediate opportunities we are currently hiring for....

Regional Sales Managers in Dallas, Baltimore/DC and the Carolinas.

Direct Sales Representatives in the same areas.

Product Managers in Sports Medicine and Arthroscopy Power.

Even if you are not actively seeking a new position, but are interested in networking, please let me know.

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Resume Bloopers

In college, I was a comparative lit major. That basically means I love words, I love books. Keep that in mind if you decide to send me a resume.

Even though I consider my grasp of the English language pretty good, I still grab the dictionary and look up a word if I want to confirm its nuances. Which is what these people should have done...
  • How about the person who provided "proper instructing of instillation of equipment during surgeries." Instillation- really? I wonder if there is any moonshine involved.
  • Exactly the opposite of what they intended: "My successful and verifiable entrepreneurial experience in sales and new business development has required that I be tenuous in my approach to the business and sell through strong relationship development." Frankly dear, I don't know anyone who is looking for a tenuous rep. Usually, quite the opposite.
  • Or the overly empathetic cover letter: "I understand that in these current economic times you are intonated with potential candidates for career advancement. I am sure that at times it is actually overwhelming." While the sentiment is appreciated, let me set the record straight: I do not generally sing or chant while reviewing resumes, even when I get a lot of them.

So don't be shy about whipping out your dictionary if you are reaching for the right word. Better to get the right one than an unintended meaning.

Saturday, February 14, 2009

"Portable Employer"

In the orthopedic world, many reps are 1099 independent contractors. This means the sales reps are responsible for their own benefits and expenses. As independent business people, they must file their own quarterly taxes. Some choose to incorporate. These are added responsibilities, but there are also some potential advantages if one is a savvy business person.

Recently, we discovered a company which touts itself as a "Portable Employer of Record". They essential handle billing for independent contractors and consultants. As an "employee" of this organization, you have access to an array of benefits. Of course, there is some cost for this service- which is about 5% of the billed amount. Still, there might be some advantages.

MBO Partners

If you are familiar with this or other similar companies, I would be interested in learning more. Please comment or drop me an e-mail.

Monday, February 2, 2009

Search and Apply

Today, about 1200 people stood in-line for 35 firefighter jobs in Miami. It made the news I suppose because it is a good illustration of how tough the job market has become.

On the recruiting and hiring end, the downturn equates to a lot of resumes to review. I have definitely seen a significant increase in the number of applicants for our open positions. Some people unfortunately just seem to be lobbing their resume at any job they can find, whether or not they are qualified.

I have a suggestion- even if you think you are capable of doing a job, if you do not have 75% of the qualifications or required experience listed as a requirement, basically that is a pretty good indicator that is a waste of time to apply- of yours and everyone else who is involved in the process. Some qualifications- like "Bachelor's degree", or "Local candidates only"- are pretty much non-negotiable, so heed them well.

I have a lot of compassion for people who have been laid-off in this economy. In fact, it hit home pretty recently with one of my family members. Still, I think it is better to focus your time and energy appropriately, perhaps especially at a time like this, on opportunities that you are a viable match for.