By Patrina Pellett, PhD (Follow me on LinkedIn)

Inside the Aspire MSL program, we see imposter syndrome show up all the time. Not as a lack of ambition. Not as fear of the role. But as self-sabotage.

Aspiring Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs) know they want the role but get stuck in a confidence death spiral:

• They hesitate to apply because they don’t feel ready

• Or they apply to everything and get rejections left and right

• They respond by over-preparing academically (research rabit holes)

• They avoid practicing where they really need to improve (interviewing)

• They hyper-focus on one small negative aspect of an interview 

• They assume interviewers are "out to get them" 

By the time many aspiring MSLs say, “I think I have imposter syndrome,” what they’re really experiencing is this:

They want the MSL role but don’t yet know how to operate like an MSL. And that disconnect fuels doubt far more than lack of ability ever could.

Here is your guide to how to handle imposter syndrome as an aspiring MSL. 

An Aspiring MSL's Guide to Imposter Syndrome

What Is Imposter Syndrome for Aspiring Medical Science Liaisons?

For aspiring MSLs, imposter syndrome isn’t about intelligence or motivation.

It’s the persistent feeling that:

• You don’t sound “MSL enough” yet

• You need more industry experience before applying

• You need more certifications (even though you have a terminal degree)

• Other candidates are more accomplished than you are

• You will be exposed during interviews for not knowing everything

This type of imposter syndrome shows up most often during the career transition into Medical Affairs, especially for scientists and clinicians who are used to being subject-matter experts.

Why Aspiring MSLs Keep Asking “Can I Do It?”

This question doesn’t persist because aspiring MSLs lack confidence. It's actually because they lack clarity.

Common reasons include:

• Job descriptions explain what MSLs do, but not how they think or communicate

• High personal standards that make uncertainty feel like failure

• Comparing themselves to experienced MSLs instead of remembering that everyone starts with ZERO industry experience

• Entry-level MSL roles still asking for experience

• Difficulty translating current experience into field-ready MSL skills (those tricky transferable skills, trust have you have a ton!)

This isn’t a mindset issue. It’s a talking about your transferable skills problem. You have the skills, it's just putting them into MSL language. 

Signs You’re Stuck in Imposter Syndrome as an Aspiring MSL

You may be stuck in the “Can I do it?” phase if you:

• Delay applying for MSL roles despite wanting the job

• Over-prepare academically but avoid interview or scenario practice

• Struggle to explain your value beyond your CV

• Downplay your expertise when networking

• Freeze when asked how you’d handle MSL situations during interviews

If this sounds familiar, it doesn’t mean you’re not ready. It means your preparation hasn’t been practical enough yet.

How Aspiring MSLs Actually Overcome Imposter Syndrome

Most advice focuses on mindset. Successful MSLs focus on capability. What actually helps aspiring Medical Science Liaisons move forward:

• Practicing MSL-style scientific conversations

• Translating experience into Medical Affairs/ Pharma language

• Rehearsing real interview and field scenarios

• Getting feedback on how they communicate,  not just what they know

Confidence doesn’t come first. Competence does. And confidence follows.

How to Know If You’re Ready to Be an MSL

Many aspiring MSLs struggle because they don’t have a clear way to assess readiness. Ask yourself:

• Can I clearly explain what an MSL does beyond a job description?

• Can I translate my background into pharma/biotech/medtech speak?

• Can I confidently talk through field scenarios in interviews?

• Do I understand how I’d add value to stakeholders?

If you hesitate, that’s not a red flag. It’s a sign you need structure, not reassurance.

Take the Free MSL Readiness Assessment

The MSL Readiness Assessment helps aspiring Medical Science Liaisons:

• Identify where they’re already strong

• See where imposter syndrome is masking skill gaps

• Understand what to focus on next

It takes just a few minutes and gives you personalized advice based on where you are!

Take the free MSL Readiness Assessment here

4 Tips to Help You Overcome Imposter Syndrome 

1. Reframe Your Thoughts: Instead of asking "Can I do it?", ask "How can I do it?" This shifts your mindset from doubt to problem-solving.
2. Focus on Growth: Identify specific areas where you can develop your skills for the MSL role. This proactive approach builds confidence.
3. Document Your Achievements: Keep a record of your successes and positive feedback to combat self-doubt.
4. Embrace the Learning Curve: Remember that every MSL started as a beginner. It's okay not to know everything from day one.

Conclusion: An Aspiring MSL's Guide to Imposter Syndrome

Imposter syndrome doesn’t mean you can’t be an MSL. It means you’re standing at the edge of a transition that requires new skills, not more confidence. It's a growth moment!

Once you learn how MSLs actually think, communicate, and prepare for real-world situations, the question changes from:

“Can I do this?”
to
“I know how to do this.”

Ready to transform your "Can I do it?" into "I can do it!"?

The Aspire MSL program is a step-by-step program for scientists and clinicians who want to land their first Medical Science Liaison role. Instead of confidence talk, Aspire MSL focuses on:

• Translating your experience into MSL language

• Practicing real scenarios

• Building confidence through structured preparation

If you’re done spiraling and ready to move forward with clarity, this is where it starts.

Don't let impostor syndrome hold you back from the MSL role you desire. Take the first step towards turning your "want to" into "can do" today with Aspire MSL!

Frequently Asked Questions About Imposter Syndrome for Aspiring MSLs

Is imposter syndrome common for aspiring Medical Science Liaisons?
Yes. Imposter syndrome is extremely common for aspiring MSLs, especially during the transition from academia or clinical roles into Medical Affairs.

Does imposter syndrome mean I’m not ready to be an MSL?
No. In most cases, imposter syndrome is a signal that you haven’t been trained to apply your experience in real-world MSL conversations yet, not that you lack ability.

Why do aspiring MSLs feel confident studying but not interviewing?
Because studying builds knowledge, while interviews test applied communication, judgment, and scenario-based thinking, skills aspiring MSLs rarely practice on their own.

How can aspiring MSLs overcome imposter syndrome?
By focusing on capability instead of confidence: practicing MSL-style conversations, translating experience into medical value, and rehearsing real interview scenarios.

What’s the fastest way to assess MSL readiness?
Using a structured tool like an MSL Readiness Assessment instead of relying on confidence alone.