What 15 Years in Pharma and Biotech Taught Me About Career Success

When I reflect on my 15+ years in pharma and biotech, I realize some of the most valuable career lessons weren’t taught in any professional development course. They came through real, sometimes painful, experiences. If you’re navigating your career in this fast-paced, ever-evolving industry, I want to share five lessons that changed everything for me—so you can learn them now, not 10 years down the road.

Lesson 1: Overthinking Is a Career Killer

I used to be a perfectionist, terrified of making mistakes. I delayed decisions, revised drafts endlessly, and applied for jobs cautiously, trying to predict every possible outcome before making a move. But here’s what I learned: You don’t need perfect information to take action.

The faster you make decisions, the faster you learn and grow. My former boss once told me, “Your imperfect drafts are better than most people’s final products.” That advice shifted my mindset. Today, I make thoughtful yet quick decisions—and it’s been a game changer.

Action Tip: Stop overanalyzing. Make the next decision in front of you, knowing you’ll adjust as you go.

Lesson 2: Act Like You’re Already in the Role You Want

Early in my career, a mentor told me to “dress and act like the role you want, not the one you have.” I didn’t take it seriously at first, but over time, I saw how showing up as the leader you want to be before getting the title makes all the difference.

When you behave like the future version of yourself, decision-makers take notice. Promotions aren’t just about potential—they’re about being seen as ready now. If your leadership can't visualize you in your next level, you won't get it.

Action Tip: Think about how your future self would solve today’s challenges. Then, start leading like that person today.

Lesson 3: The Workplace Isn’t Fair—Learn to Win Anyway

Bias, favoritism, and office politics are real, especially for women and underrepresented groups. I’ve seen it firsthand—and lived it. For a while, I let the unfairness frustrate me, even hold me back. But focusing on how things should be won’t get you ahead.

Instead, I learned to build the skills to succeed despite the system. I became more strategic, played the game on my terms, and advanced because I stopped waiting for fairness.

Action Tip: Acknowledge the reality—and then build the skills, relationships, and strategies to win in that reality.

Lesson 4: Your Boss Isn’t the Only Decision-Maker for Your Career

Early on, I thought my boss controlled my career. Wrong. The biggest turning point came when I started building relationships outside my immediate team. When I wanted a leadership role that didn’t exist, I networked with key influencers and decision-makers beyond my site.

Eventually, those leaders advocated for me—and I got to write my own job description.

Action Tip: Build your internal brand. Make sure the people who need to know your impact do.

Lesson 5: Take Full Ownership of Your Career

This one stings—but it’s powerful. When I stopped blaming circumstances or difficult colleagues and took ownership of every result in my career (good and bad), everything changed.

I started seeing obstacles as problems I could solve. I got curious, took action, and created my own opportunities. I became less reactive and more empowered.

Action Tip: Ask yourself, Where am I not taking responsibility for my career? What’s one action I can take? Then, do it.

These lessons transformed how I approach my career—and they can do the same for you. You have more control over your career than you think. It all starts with the next step you decide to take.

Listen to the Your Worthy Career podcast episode to hear more about these lessons, including my personal experiences that led to these lessons.

What career lesson has made the biggest difference in your journey? I’d love to hear from you. Comment below or message me on LinkedIn!

Melissa Lawrence is a former talent leader in Pharma and the Founder of Your Worthy Career. She is a Career and Leadership Coach that helps women in Pharma/Biotech identify their next best role, get a new job or promotion, and be a stand out leader. To learn more about working with Melissa, check out her website and connect with her on LinkedIn.