My version of 15 by 15
 

I'm so done with the Sh*#hole. I have seen the older reps, who used to be our "mentors" just a few years ago, being pushed out of this company for nothing other than they are making a good salary. I'm not quite 50 yet, but getting close, and I know if I last that long the same will happen to me. Despite what I do or how hard I work it won't be enough. So today I've decided that I'm done with them. I will no longer make the extra early call or late call. I will do a lunch here & there collect a few signatures. I figure this will take me three hours a day max. Which equates to 15 hours a week. I'm gonna work a max of 15 hours a week until 2015. This is my version of 15 by 15. From now on, I will have an 25 extra hours a week to work out, spend time with my spouse or double dip with an extra job (which would be good since we didn't get much of a raise the past couple years). You want 15 by 15? It's now time for me to give it to you my way. Bend over Merck............Who's in with me?

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

Seriously, how can you do this an look at yourself in the mirror on payday, you lazy POS. If you feel this way, quit and find somewhere else to justify working an honest day's work!!!

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

"Honest day's work". Where do you live? That only happens in the shrinking base of accessible territories

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

You dont have the brains or ambition to double dip with an extra job. get help with your mid-life crisis or better yet, a maid that will sleep with you so you are not wacking off by yourself all the time. That would be a good use of time. 15 yanks for 15 seconds.

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

Good for this guy. He gets it. Give them the three hours a day they deserve and fu*k 'em for every dollar you can.

Trust me when I tell you that they've fu*ked countless other reps who were dedicated employees, only to learn too late that Merck will throw you out with the trash as soon as they see fit.

You other asswipes who feel loyalty to this garbage company are without hope. Some people are just smarter than others. merck will soon have nothing but dummies left.

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

".....merck will soon have nothing but dummies left"

That is the ultimate goal

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

was the op Mark Kornak?

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

Umm, actually it's about being loyal to YOURSELF asswipe...destroying (consciously or otherwise) your work ethic isn't exactly "smart"

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

sort of like what the Cambodian Pol Pot and his Khmer Rouge did to the
Intelligensia of Cambodia...

Get rid of anyone with a brain who can see reality and ask questions...

Merck is the devil at this point...

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

I have been urging all reps at Merck to do this...Bravo for you!! Do the minimum possible!!! Take Merck's money like they take your dignity and show them what happens when they treat sales reps like crap...Honestly, 15 hours is pretty generous...see if u can get it down to 10....

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

OP here. First day of my 15 x 15 campaign. Left home at 10:30 made two calls before lunch. Did lunch & saw four docs and one midlevel. Got a couple sigs from them and went home at 1:30. Went to the gym at 2:15 and worked out until 3:45. It's awesome working out this time of day, didn't have to wait to use equipment one time! Headed home and checked VM & email for 15 minutes, showered and started making dinner. I did go over my goal of working three hours by a total of 15 minutes. By the end of the week I should have it down. Better get to bed now, I've got to get up and put another three hours in tomorrow!

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

Enjoy while lasts. When, not if, the heat starts to be applied from you management at various levels, best be prepared. I'm just sayin.

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

You know what? I feel like those bashing the OP are the younger people who just don't get it.
There are reps of all ages who work few hours, btw. I know a guy (30-something) who literally spends ALL of his time in the gym, and must work only a couple of hours each afternoon. Has been with his company for a while, so guess it's working out for him.
Anyway, point is, the older reps who have put in a ton of time already have put in WAY more than 8-5 over the course of their career. Tenured, older reps have done their time, and also KNOW they're going to get kicked to the curb any day. Not IF, but WHEN. When you've been around for a long time, you've spent COUNTLESS nights, weekends, even holiday & vacation time doing work for the company, so if OP wants to, and can, kick back some now... more power. All the hours they're missing at work now were most certainly put in previously!!
For anyone who actually feels loyalty or obligation to a company who treats its reps and other employees like crap, wake up. If you can spend more time actually living life and doing the truly important things (like spending more time with family), then do it. If you take a look at your life through 'old people eyes', no way are you going to look back and say, "Wow, I wished I'd worked more".

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

yeah, well I love the OP's thinking. It would be hilarious if it werent so serious. This company sucks. No job stability-despite doing a good job. Nobody asking any of us to stay-how things have changed. Five years ago at a major meeting the king gets up there and begs people to stay with the company. When was the last time you heard that? Weak management that starts at the CTL level and moves right on up to the greed-thirtsy CEO or board of director level. Kool-aid drinking marketing team(Januvia combo with simva as a great example-"Its not another Caduet! Norvasc was not a real popular"-totally false), everybody just treading water and waiting it out. The cuts are coming. With the job market the way it is, there is very little place for a pharma rep to go where they are seen as valuable. So, as Merck has destroyed my career based on how they have run this business for the past 10 or more years, good enough for them. You have basically the whole field force doing what the OP is doing, but nobody talks about it. Its the elephant in the room. Go for it OP-I died laughing when I saw your version of 15X15

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

WOW! What a concept! I would say it is really smart but can't because if you have not been doing this all along you are an idiot. As a pharma professional that is about all you need to do if you are a half decent sales rep to consistantly perform in the top 25% year after year; I do. With computers it is even easier to implement because you can fudge the call plan and make it look totally legit. What does working any harder really get you? More security? More peace of mind? More sales? Think again. We all know that the numbers are totally massaged by the HO dorks and that no one really knows who is selling what. Do you even know how numbers are calculated? It is a shitty sampling of the month then extrapolated out to give you your "sales results", I mean your "teams" results. Really does not matter what you do. This is the best thing about pharma, you can get by without doing very much at all. If you are just figuring this out too bad for you because I am sure that your hardworking teammates are doing the same thing. All the managers know the deal, they were reps once too you idiot. Most of the sales are so managed care dependent these days as long as you are keeping up with admin games you can keep pulling in that huge base salary and all the perks you get when you figure out how to fudge an expense report for an extra grand a month. All companies know this goes on which is why there are constant layoffs and will eventually be nothing but digital media going out to docs with the option of getting samples shipped to them. Who needs a rep anymore? Not the docs or the companies! Good luck with your 15 by 15. At least I give you credit for finally figuring it out. Go enjoy life while you still have one!

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

OP here. No #15, not an idiot, just an honest rep that did their job well for years and years. Nothing wrong with that. It's so refreshing to know that no matter what I do in the near future or far, it won't really matter. Knowing that, I've gone into semi retirement so to speak but will be getting full pay while I'm doing it. Worked a total of 17 hours this week. Only two over my goal. Next week I'll have it down. Did lose two pounds working out at the gym though. Should be able to meet my 15 hour goal next week.

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

Finally! A report from someone at Merck demonstrating TRUE PROGRESS! Well done! Keep us informed of your individual growth and accomplishments as you move forward.

From where I'm sitting, Merck should get down to about a 1000 or so reps before the bloodbath is over, so it really doesn't matter what you do. Even if you are ultimately discovered and fired, you'd still be better off anyhow. I'd focus on finding the perfect next job---at your leisure, of course---then quit a year or so from now.

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

I can relate. I used to be a true blue Merck loyal rep. I pride myself working long hours. It does not matter these days. They want me to be a walking billboard and a robot. Any individualism is to be discouraged. Step 1 do this. Step 2 do this. Step 3 stand this way. Step 3 raise your voice, close the call. Step 4 re-affirm this "idiot" doc he has made the wisest choice in his entire life. Miss one step and you are incompetent.

Happy to hear about the weight loss. Remember Merck would not shed a tear if any of us die from a heart attack, or jump off a building due to a PIP.

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

What an idiot...you can easily be replaced by a cheerleader type with a nice set of DD's cause at least she'll try to make a good days work! You really need to take a door greeters job a Walmart or collect the carts in the parking lot! Think of how sorry the managers were to even have hired you back in the day! But we need plenty of assholes so we can be diverse!

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

What a racist and/or sexist comment to say, "Merck need plenty of a**holes so we can be diverse." Do you really know all those hires were incompetent? That your own skin color automatically translate into intelligence as Einstein's? Or all female reps are hired for diversity reason? As a tenured rep I have seen some new reps were able to access offices that I could not. Some came up with ideas that I did not think about. Not all new people were hired for their looks only.

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

Again, only a racist finds racism where there is none. This company is in deep trouble. We need to shelve Diversity and focus on things that are worthwhile.

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

Ummm, wouldn't it make more sense for the low-brow cheerleader types to be greeting at Walmart, or collecting carts? More on their intelligence level. You think someone like THAT would try to make a good days work? No, idiot. They're mostly concerned about what they look like, what time they're going shopping, what time for the gym, and what time for drinks later. NOT concerned about doing a great job at work. Come on. You are clearly young and not very bright. No wonder you've been hired into pharma. It's people like you they are hiring these days so they can mold your mushy little minds. It's true and you know it!

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

OP here again. I worked only 14 hours this week! The best part is that I'm working with my S3 (brownnoser) on a project and she reported back to my CTL on how much of a help and team player that I've been! Meanwhile, my time at the gym has increased and I've lost more weight and feel much better, physically and mentally. Just knowing that this company has screwed, is screwing and a high likelihood they will screw me too makes it a lot easier to deal with. I've been getting good at turning Merck off after three hours or so each day.

In my mind I've given myself a "mental" raise. Much less stress with not really caring anymore. I think in a couple months when I reach my weight loss & fitness goal, I'm going to get another job or start a side business and devote much of my time to that.

Stay bent over Mother Merck while I put it to you. I'm doing this for all those you have screwed over and are currently messing with. Now shutup and hand me some more lube...

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

You are truely a Saint. Thank you, thank you from all of us Sir A'hole

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

New reps can get access in the beginning ....docs are curious a, "check em out,".... then put them in the same group as the oldies. See this all the time.....

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

You are welcome my friend!

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

You might also slip on a banana peel or something and go for Worker's Comp.

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

Just think. By doing so, you effectively increase your hourly salary. Less work at same pay = relative salary increase.

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

Remember Man As You
Pass By,
As You Are Now,
So Once Was I,
As I Am Now,
So Must You Be.

-- old proverb about walking past the cemetery.

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

Go, man, go! I admire your approach! Been doing the same for the last couple of years....

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

OP here again. A long time friend of mine has been with Merck for 22 year and is a 4 time VP winner just told me she is getting the heat now and being pressured. I didn't tell her about my new 15x15 campaign that I am on. But examples like this is the reason. This is an outstanding rep who know her customers and works hard. Now it seems that she is "out of touch" with her business! I worked 12 hours last week! I took my spouse on an overnight and had a nice dinner which I expensed and we went shopping and kicked around the whole next day. Although I did manage to call my manager for a brief 1:1 for about 15 minutes bringing him up to date on my business. "Keep up your efforts you are doing great" was my managers response. Don't worry, I will, I will...

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

Cant be working here.

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

You lucky dog. Wish I were still working at Merck with such great fringe benefits. I'm in a bank now confined to four walls for at least 8 hours a day and it really sucks. How I dearly miss my company car and the varied work days with the opportunity to just drive out into the countryside if I felt like it. I really feel like I'm in prison now. Trust me, Merck's micromanaging bosses and field visits and busywork and bullshit are all worth the freedom that goes along with pharma sales. I do miss it so. Enjoy while it lasts.

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

# 15 here again. The bank sounds really bad, sorry to hear that. I agree that pharma was the cushest of all jobs with great pay and benes. I cherish my drives in the country and really soak it up when I can squeeze in 18 holes after grabbing 8 sigs in an hour. Keep up the good work OP you are on the right track. I am glad you finally get it. It is certainly liberating once you let go and ride it out for what it is, not sales.

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

Total BS.

Troll.

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

This is the funniest thread on here. Please keep it going!!

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

OP here again. Damn, I worked three hours yesterday but due to conference calls and a local team meeting I had to work six hours today! I didn't even make it to the health club until around 2:30. Oh well, only six more work hours for the week. Gonna do a 12 mile run Thursday and Merck will be paying for catered food at my home on Friday night for my annual Halloween party. 15 by 15 is working out great. Merck do you enjoy screwing your faithful employees as much as I enjoy putting it to you? I doubt it. Ha Ha!

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

Hell of a way to live, lie, etc. You are the ideal type to thrive in Merck nowadays. Your character, integrity, and morality allows you to make the most of your Merck employment. Unfortunately, mine is driving me nuts.

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

i love it...and you are totally justified in doing what you are doing...

Screw them back...they deserve it...

They are the ones that ruined the company, the job, and the industry...

friggin' buffoons...

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

So tragic that people are boasting how little they work to get back at Merck. I am not defending Merck at all. If you don't like Merck then leave. Is that how we are teaching our children to get back at a bad boss?

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

Feel just like you--so I got out. The rep who is doing the minimal has no integrity although their ethics might be mirroring those of Merck. It is a shame and is so sad.

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

work you ass off for that 2% raise. I will work less, spend more time going out and with my family and get 1%.
Keep up the good work, you jackass.

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

OP here again. For all those bashers out there... FYI, I was the hard working rep that went the extra mile but now we have managers that use field visits to check boxes and tell us why we are now suddenly not competent in our jobs even though we have won awards in the past. These managers bring no value at all to my customers. I have a director who wants to spend time in the field. Really? Maybe he should apply for a rep job then because he brings no value to my customers either. I have seen great reps be put on a PIP and pressured just because they have some tenure with the company and are making a good salary. If you stay employed here until you are in your 50's you will get the same treatment. I understand that and have decided to quit busting my hump because in the end, it won't matter. Like the previous poster said why work your rear off for a 2% raise? Just apply my 15 x 15 and relax!

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

Not bashing you nor passing judgement. I was one of those tenured reps that became a PIP target overnight. I retired with 30 years under my belt. Personally I cannot do the 15 x 15 to get even. I think I will still be miserable even doing that against my own ethics and have to work with a manager and a director riding along regularly. Plus all the usual craps. I would have gone postal if I stayed because of the way I was coached towards the end. I was eating pills like candies.

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

I don't feel guilty at all. Mother screws her own every single day. There are some of us smart enough to beat her at her own game, realizing that we all end up working somewhere else, anyhow.

I refuse to let them get to me. I'll head fake them every day and, ultimately, tell them to go f--k themselves. No pills for me. I hate what this company has become.

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

I do too. My anger got the best of me and no amount of faking or acting was going to suppress it so I had to get out and am in what I'd call a transitional position. I really am suprised we haven't had major incidents from the treatment Merck has dished on some.

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

I don't think Merck care to keep track of how many former reps became severely depressed to the point of suicide, divorce, or turn into a basket case. I know of one rep that had a panic attack on his way to yet another skill meeting and did not board the plane. His doctor recommended that he changed career or else. One that quit on the second day of a skills meeting ran by a manager trying to showcase to a visiting director. A friend said he was waking up in the middle of the night gripped with fears and heart pounding. He started popping Xanax. One rep literally wanted to drop off his manager in the country during a field visit. That manager is now at the HQ and faked crying at the last national meeting. So many called me just to chat, all depressed, families in jeopardy, all senses of self worth gone, etc.

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

How Merck has changed since I was hired 32 years ago is simply breathtaking. I have no breath left to take and am relieved to be able to retire. My deep condolences to all I leave behind. It should never have had to come to this. I'll try to remember only the good times and our most admired days and shall try to forget all the bad that seemed to exceed the good in the end.

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

Don't have near the years in that you do partner, but my story is the same...Ended up in Merck's crosshairs "magically" when I turned 50...suddenly no longer competent according to Merck managment...

was eating Xanax like there was no tomorrow...

Re: My version of 15 by 15
 

While Merck's R&D may have run dry, they have perfected the art of ruining people's lives...
No one does it better than Mother Merck.