- Men. I suggest the "IBM look." The IBM look is conservative and traditional in a dark blue, black, or charcoal single-breasted traditional suit; white button-down shirt with a button-down or straight collar; and a silk tie. Regarding grooming, it is highly suggested that men are clean-shaven (no facial hair) and have a short, fashionable hairstyle.

- Women. I also strongly suggest a traditional and conservative look for women, such as a dark blue or black skirt suit, white blouse, hose, and closed-toe shoes. Hair should be groomed professionally. Make-up should accent the face and not overpower it. A pharmaceutical sales person's image should be classic and fashionable, but not too trendy. Jewelry should be kept at a minimum

- Men and Women. Absolutely no cologne, perfume or scented hand lotions should be worn during the interview. Remember, you are interviewing for a job in corporate America, not a date!

· Desire. How badly do you want to get into pharmaceutical sales? Your desire can be demonstrated in the mastery of the following areas: company research, attention to your professional image, resume knowledge, interviewing skills, positive attitude and follow-through.

· Personality match with your manager. This is a difficult aspect to determine. You must feel comfortable enough with your boss to trust your career to them, and you must be able to work for and with the hiring manager. Your personalities must "click" with each other.

· Personality traits. The ideal pharmaceutical sales representative will be: self-motivated, goal-oriented, knowledgeable, personable, professional, positive, accountable, teachable, persistent, ethical, a team player and trustworthy. When interviewing, you must exude these traits (this will happen if you have adequately prepared for the interview).

What is the one most important piece of advice you can give someone who wants to be a pharmaceutical sales representative? Deciding and committing to finding a pharmaceutical sales position is a career choice. The question to ask yourself is, "How important is my career?" If you are serious about becoming a pharmaceutical sales representative, it is time you learn the rules of how to find and interview for a pharmaceutical sales position. The days of "winging it" are over, because the competition for a pharmaceutical sales position has never been greater. Become a student of searching for your career. Above all else, remain positive and persistent throughout the entire process.

Pat Riley is the president of 10 Abbott Street L.L.C., ( http://www.10abbottstreet.com ) an executive search firm specializing in pharmaceutical and medical sales and the author of "Secrets of Breaking Into Pharmaceutical Sales", and "57 Most Frequently Asked Pharmaceutical Sales Interview Questions ...and Answers that Win the Job". Both E-Books are available at http://www.pharmaceuticalinterviewquestions.com . Note: Several of these answers were pulled from Secrets of Breaking Into Pharmaceutical Sales.