35 AmerisourceBergen Interview Questions & Answers
Behavioral
1. When have you shown great integrity at work?
How to Answer
Integrity comes from honesty and consistent moral values. Talk to the interviewer about the ways you show your integrity in the workplace.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"In my last position, I was responsible for the cash deposit every day. There was never a discrepancy in the four years that I worked there. I best show my integrity by being a consistently reliable employee."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"Always! Honesty and integrity are two values at the center of my being. I like to think I practice this in the workplace by always doing the right thing by the company, its customers, and its people."
Behavioral
2. Describe a time your ethics were tested.
How to Answer
The interviewer asks this question to see that you are honest and have integrity. The interviewer wants to hear that you are ethical and can be trusted if hired. Focus on providing an example of a time your ethics were tested while working in this industry. If you are new to this field, use an example from a previous job or while attending school. Some examples could be witnessing someone cheat or steal something.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"My ethics were tested when working as a tax preparer before switching careers. I had a client who asked me to falsify their tax return so they would get a larger refund. I refused and explained that I could lose my license and go to jail for falsifying documents. I also told them they could go to jail and asked them to find another tax preparer to do their return. I refuse to work with unethical people."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"My ethics were tested while working in a retail store. I saw an employee put some items in her purse without paying for them and then leave on her break. I went to the break room to ask if she would like me to ring the items up, and she told me she didn't know what I was talking about and to mind my own business. I cannot tolerate people who lie and steal, so I told my supervisor about the incident. They replayed the surveillance cameras and saw I was telling the truth. After that, she was fired, and I received a promotion to Assistant Manager."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Behavioral
3. When have you had to be extra thorough in completing tasks?
How to Answer
Some tasks will require a keener eye and additional diligence. Discuss a time you were extra thorough during a work-related project.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I have to be extra thorough from time to time when I have especially detail-oriented clients. Often, this will mean spending additional time on calls with them to highlight project changes. I am okay with being extra thorough when needed."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I am always thorough, but we have monthly team meetings where we discuss our performance metrics. That reporting takes a little longer."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Direct
4. Who is the CEO of our company?
How to Answer
Before any job interview, you must research the company you are interviewing with. You want to learn all you can to answer any questions the interviewer will have. Review the company website, online employee reviews, and the job announcement and visit the company and talk to staff. The interviewer wants to hear that you have done your homework and know the CEO of AmerisourceBergen.
Show the interviewer you have done in-depth research on their company. Focus on the CEO of AmerisourceBergen and a little history about them. You can mention when they were appointed CEO, who they worked for before AmerisourceBergen, and any achievements they have made since becoming CEO.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"The CEO of your company is Steven H. Collis. Mr. Collis was appointed CEO in 2011 and serves as the President, CEO, and Chairman of AmerisourceBergen. What I found fascinating about Mr. Collis is how he is currently ranked number ten on the Fortune 500 and has been instrumental in the company's tremendous financial growth."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"Steven H. Collis is your company's President, CEO, and Chairman. Mr. Collis was elected President and CEO in 2011 and Chairman in 2016, and he has improved the company's revenue by more than 80%. It seems AmerisourceBergen made an excellent decision electing Mr. Collis to these positions."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Direct
5. What are your salary expectations?
How to Answer
The best way to discuss your salary expectations is to use your current earnings as an example. Be open and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary-based questions arise.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Currently, I earn a base salary of $45,000 per year plus a potential 20% annual bonus. Last year my earnings were $52,000, and I would like to stay in the same range or slightly higher."
2nd Answer Example
"I am currently making $100,000 per year with two bonus opportunities. I am looking for compensation that aligns with the role and provides an opportunity for growth."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Direct
6. Are you applying for any other jobs?
How to Answer
It always puts a little bit of fire under the hiring manager if they are aware that you are actively looking for a new position. Tell the interviewer about your search so far.
1st Answer Example
"I am keeping an eye out for viable positions. Although I am not in the final stages with any other company, I am actively seeking a new position."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I am active in my job search and am in the final stages with another company. Do you have a timeline in mind for a decision on this position?"
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Direct
7. How would you rate your performance in this interview so far?
How to Answer
This question can create feelings of stress and anxiety, so it's best to be prepared. Be honest with the interviewer about how you feel the interview has gone so far.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I believe that this interview has been quite informative, and I am happy with my performance. Is there anything I can clarify for you from this conversation?"
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I am not sure if I have been able to portray myself 100% accurately in this interview, though I am trying my best. If there is anything more that I can clarify for you, I would be happy to do so."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Direct
8. By this time in your career, you should have advanced further. What has slowed down your career progression?
How to Answer
When an interviewer sees slow career progression on your resume, they will immediately want to determine whether this is by your own choice, outside circumstances, or a lack of motivation to create growth. If your career has progressed slower than you wish, you must be honest with the interviewer when discussing this.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I agree with you that my career progression has been slower than some. You will see that between 2001 and 2009, I worked for the same company without an increase in my job title. The company was too small to offer a promotion as the next level was ownership, and the business wasn't for sale. After that, from 2009 to 2012, I was on leave as I needed to care for my ailing parents. My growth since returning to work has been steady, but those years were a bit of a standstill for me. I am ready to spring into action now and forge ahead in my career."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"Early in my career, I was left to care for an elderly, sick parent. Her care required more of me than expected, so I allowed my career to sit and wait. I am happy with that decision. Spending those last precious moments with a loved one is worth the setback."
Direct
9. Tell me about an organization or group you have contributed to outside of work.
How to Answer
Many hiring managers will choose one candidate over another because of their volunteer experience. They feel that it shows strong character and selflessness, all qualities of a great employee. Talk to the interviewer about your willingness to give back to your community in some form of volunteerism. If you do not have formal volunteer experience, you can draw on things you do in your spare time to assist friends, family, or even your current employer.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I have not formally volunteered in recent years due to my heavy workload at school. However, I spend my free time helping my sister, who is a single mom. I babysit on weekends, cook dinners for her and my nieces, and drive the kids to appointments and soccer practice when necessary. I feel that it is essential to take care of my family's needs."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"For the past two years, I have volunteered every Sunday evening at our local animal shelter. I help with grooming the animals, feeding them, and walking them. I cannot have pets where I live, so it's been an enjoyable experience and rewarding at the same time."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Direct
10. How did you hear about this position?
How to Answer
Companies invest a lot of money advertising their job openings. The interviewer wants to hear what methods are effective and which are not. They also want to hear if an employee of their agency referred you. Describe how you heard about the position, and be sure to give the name of the employee or recruiter who referred you if applicable. Some companies offer their employees a referral fee when referring a candidate, while others hire recruiters to seek out qualified candidates.
The interviewer wants to briefly hear how you heard about the position. Be concise in your response, describing the recruiter's name, the website where the agency posted the job, the agency website, or an employee referral.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I heard about this position from a recruiter named Kristy Holmes. She contacted me on LinkedIn and suggested I apply with your company due to my experience in the industry."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I saw this position listed on your website under careers. After seeing a news article describing the wonderful things your company is doing globally, I decided to see what jobs were available as I am looking to switch careers."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Discovery
11. If you could choose any area in your field to study further, which area would you focus on? How do you feel that would help you with a career at AmerisourceBergen?
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about your favorite area of study within the pharma /biotech industry. Explain why you would choose to focus on that area. Share with the interviewer why you feel that strengthened skills in this particular area will help you to achieve your goals with AmerisourceBergen.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"If I could choose any area of focus, I would enjoy a deeper focus on orthobiologics. I find the idea of finding advanced ways of assisting the body in healing itself fascinating. If there were advancements in this area, I feel it could help your organization to achieve some major goals as well."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"If given the opportunity to further my studies, I would choose to focus on Biochemical Pharmacology. I feel that will help me in my career here since this is one of your larger areas of focus. Your biochemical pharmacology department is so advanced, and I am very interested in getting a job in that area."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Discovery
12. In your opinion, what is the biggest development in Pharmaceuticals in the past three years?
How to Answer
The term 'pharmaceutical' refers to the creation and sale of medicine. Discuss what you view as the most significant development that has happened in the past few years.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"There have been so many developments in the pharmaceutical industry in the past three years, but I feel that the biggest was the creation of the first vaccine for Dengue."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I am most impressed by the way the pharma industry has switched its focus from treatment to prevention. It's a great way to flip our thinking in the industry and will save the lives of so many people."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Discovery
13. In your opinion, what is the biggest development in Biotechnology in the past three years?
How to Answer
The term 'biotechnology' refers to the use of cells and molecules to create a product within medicine, genetic testing, or even agriculture. Discuss what you view as the most significant development that has happened in the past few years.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"There have been so many developments in biotechnology in the past three years, but I feel that the biggest was the development in gene editing. It's an incredibly controversial and intriguing practice."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"There is a multitude of biotech developments from which to choose! I recently read about new methods of manipulating human cells to beat a range of diseases. According to Fortune Magazine, Chinese scientists have launched the first CRISPR gene-editing trial for the treatment of cancer. It's all pretty incredible, isn't it?"
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Discovery
14. What would you say are the top three skills to be successful in this field?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear that you have the qualities they are looking for at AmerisourceBergen. The interviewer asks this question to see what you believe are the top three skills needed to succeed in this industry. When you respond, the interviewer will determine that you have those skills yourself because you think they are essential to your profession.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I believe the top three skills to succeed in this field are communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills. I see on your website that your company prides itself on excellent communication and promoting leaders within your organization. I think interpersonal skills are essential in any industry, as it shows one has compassion, integrity, and the ability to work with diverse groups."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"The top three skills one needs to be successful in this field are empathy, compassion, and leadership skills. Having the ability to empathize with others and put yourself in their shoes while providing compassion is an excellent skill. I believe leadership skills help others grow by leading by example and having someone they can look up to and trust."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Discovery
15. If you could choose any special area of focus with AmerisourceBergen, which would you choose?
How to Answer
Working for AmerisourceBergen could open a variety of career options for you. Talk to the interviewer about where you'd like to see your career path go with AmerisourceBergen.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I am currently working as a Clinical Research Assistant and would like to eventually grow into a Principal Scientist role, or something of the like, with AmerisourceBergen. My primary goal is to find a long-term home where I can continue to expand my knowledge in the area of (choose an area of study)."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"That is a challenging question when there are so many interesting options at my fingertips. If I had to choose one specialty today, I would choose a topic within animal science. I am passionate about the health of animals."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Discovery
16. Why did you choose a career in the Pharma/Biotech industry?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer would like to know what drew you to a career in their industry. Show the hiring manager that you have a natural attraction to this particular industry and that you're here to stay.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I chose a career in Pharma/Biotech because I have always been attracted to the study of medicine and science and the correlation between them. It's an ever-changing industry that never becomes dull."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"My motivation for choosing a career in Biotechnology was my love of science and helping others. I knew I would be happy with this career choice for years to come."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Discovery
17. What industry-related changes do you foresee in the next 12 months?
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that you have a keen and honest interest in this industry by discussing the growth and change that you foresee in the next year. If the organization has any upcoming news or changes, be sure to mention these as well.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I read on your website that AmerisourceBergen is expected to see a 43% increase in the sales of product ABC. This fact piqued my interest as I have seen reports that forecast a strong increase in the use of product ABC for alternative medical therapies. There are continual changes in this industry, but I think this particular change will be significant in the upcoming months."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I recently read an article by Q1 Productions that addressed this exact topic. They mentioned in the article that 2018 is going to be a great year for the pharma industry due to the economic upturn. The thought is that this will increase stock prices, thus allowing pharma companies to grow their offerings, expand operations, and further their research and reach. It's an exciting thought!"
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Discovery
18. List three qualities that make you the best candidate for AmerisourceBergen.
How to Answer
After researching AmerisourceBergen, you should have a firm idea of the qualities they admire most in their candidates. Discuss the attributes that will make you stand out as a top candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Pro Tip
Here are some qualities that would make you a great candidate for any company:
- A robust existing network in the industry
- A great reputation
- Leadership capabilities and experience
- Integrity and likability
- Strong-mindedness
- Thirst for knowledge
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I understand that this role requires stand-out skills in organization, leadership, and an energetic demeanor. I would say that these are three of my top skills, and I have many others! My references would attest to these skills as well."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Education
19. Would you further your post-secondary education to include a Ph.D. in your field?
How to Answer
Some upper-level positions within AmerisourceBergen may require a higher level of education. Assure the interviewer that you would be willing to discuss enhancing your knowledge to grow within the organization eventually.
1st Answer Example
"I have considered furthering my education to include a Ph.D. It would need to be in tandem with full-time employment, but I would certainly consider achieving this goal through evening and weekend coursework."
2nd Answer Example
"Oh yes! I am a big believer in higher education. These days, to be a stand-out candidate or employee, I think that having a Ph.D. is best."
Education
20. This position requires a minimum Bachelor's Degree in a science-related field. Walk me through your post-secondary education.
How to Answer
Your post-secondary career is significant when it comes to displaying your ability to complete a degree, multitask, and apply yourself. Walk the interviewer through your post-secondary experience, making sure to highlight any recognition or awards you achieved.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I have a Bachelor's Degree in Biology from Tampa College of Natural and Health Sciences. I graduated with Honours, which was an especially proud moment for me since I had also been working part-time."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I recently graduated from the University of Georgia with my Degree in Pharmaceutical Science. I look forward to joining AmerisourceBergen and carving out a great career with you. When the timing is right, I plan to return to school to obtain my Master's Degree in a science-based field. This extension of learning, of course, would be in tandem with my full-time job."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Experience
21. How many years have you worked in the Pharma/Biotech industry? What keeps you interested in our line of work?
How to Answer
Walk the interviewer through your work history, highlighting the most relevant positions and skills. Talk to the interviewer about your desire to work for AmerisourceBergen long-term.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I have worked within Pharma/Biotech for the past 15 years. I started in a lab assistant role and am now at the supervisory level with my current company. I stay in this industry because the opportunities are endless. I would be thrilled to continue my career growth in this industry with AmerisourceBergen."
2nd Answer Example
"I am new to the Pharmaceuticals industry and recently graduated with my Bachelor's degree in Pharmaceutical Science. I plan to remain in this industry my entire career. I hope to start in this apprenticeship role and then move forward into a role further focused on the development of new treatments."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
General
22. What is your greatest weakness?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear about your greatest weakness related to the position you applied for to see that you are self-aware and can identify an area that needs improvement. When you admit you have a deficiency in a particular aspect of your profession and take steps to improve, it shows the interviewer that you are motivated and inspired to grow professionally.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"My greatest professional weakness is my lack of experience in this industry. I am working on improving this by applying to your company and hoping you choose me for the position. Once hired, I learn quickly and will gain experience from your wonderful leaders."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"A weakness I have identified is my leadership skills. While I feel I am a natural leader, I have never had the opportunity to promote to a leadership position in previous jobs. That is one of the reasons I applied to this position, as you encourage professional growth. To ensure I am ready for a leadership role, I have enrolled in a leadership course that I will be taking for the next six weeks. The instructor guarantees that all who complete the course will have the confidence and experience to succeed as a leader."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
General
23. Describe to me your ideal employer.
How to Answer
A job search isn't just a one-sided hunt. You must also feel as though this is a good fit for yourself. Tell the interviewer about your ideal employer. Be specific and keep the conversation positive. Avoid speaking poorly of any previous managers or organizations.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"My ideal employer brings charisma and passion to their work. I work best with organizations that have a penchant for learning and promote their employees based on performance."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I am looking to join an organization where my continued learning is encouraged. It's important to me, as I carve out my career, to learn new skills with an organization that wants me to grow with them."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
General
24. How do you define success?
How to Answer
Consider what success means to you. Tell the interviewer how you view success and be sure to mention the success you plan to bring to this particular position, should you be offered the role.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I define success by my ability to reach the goals that are set for me. On a personal level, these goals are the things I wish to achieve in my life. On a work level, my goals are the targets that are set for me, as well as the professional development that I seek."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"Success, to me, is achieved when I am pleased with the quality of my work and feel proud to submit it."
General
25. What are your strengths?
How to Answer
Consider which personal advantages make you excellent at your job. Strengths can be skills or qualities that help you overcome difficult circumstances or accomplish challenging tasks.
In a work context, your strengths will help you to complete your to-do list, understand client needs, and help you to apply what you have learned in your training. Talk to the interviewer about a couple of your strengths and explain why those will help you to be successful in this role.
Some great strengths to mention are:
- Communicative
- Loyal
- Collaborative
- Tech Savvy
- Flexible in Schedule/Availability
- Persistent and Determined
- Eager for Knowledge/New Skills
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I think my strengths are in my perceptiveness and ability to be observant of the needs of others. These strengths are part of what makes me an excellent performer in a client-facing role."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I feel that my strengths are my dedication, determination, and ability to build long-lasting and trusting professional relationships."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
General
26. Who would you say inspires you?
How to Answer
Your life's inspiration can come from a book, a mentor, your family, a celebrity, an author - anyone! Talk to the interviewer about who has inspired your life and why.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I find inspiration in a variety of people and things. I would have to say that the person who has most greatly inspired me is my grandmother. She always had a smile on her face no matter how hard she worked, and she loved everyone. She was well respected and always gave more than she received. I try to live like she did, as much as I can."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"My previous manager was a huge inspiration to me. Her passion for this industry was motivating and put the fire in me to climb the ladder in my career."
General
27. How does this position fit into your career goals?
How to Answer
Consider what makes this particular position a good fit. Assure the interviewer that this position will be challenging for you and that it fits with your overall career goals.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"My primary goal in my career as an HR professional is to eventually work my way from an Administrator-level to HR Partner. I feel that your organization offers a strong path towards those goals, and I am excited about what this position has to offer."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"My primary career goal is to find a position where I can stay long term. Because your company has such a strong reputation for workplace culture, it fits perfectly with my desires for a long-term fit."
General
28. Tell me about your greatest work-related accomplishment.
How to Answer
Talking about your most significant accomplishment will give the interviewer a definite idea of where you place your values. It will also show the interviewer more about your personality, how you like to be motivated, and how to coach you in the future. It is okay to brag a little bit when answering this question. Show that you are proud of yourself and your career accomplishments!
1st Answer Example
"The greatest accomplishment in my career was graduating university as an honors student while working full time in a related field. I was at the top of my class and working full time. This success showed me that I could dedicate myself to my career and reach the goals that I set for myself. It felt great to accomplish so much and receive recognition for my dedication."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I am proud of having been chosen to be a mentor to new hires in the department. I think I've informally mentored and exhibited leadership since day one, and to be recognized for being a great teacher and allowed to train and shape the new additions to the department is an awesome pat on the back."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
General
29. If you could research any particular disorder, disease, or illness which one would you choose, and why?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to get to know you and your particular interests. Discuss what area within pharmaceuticals would you focus on if you had zero limitations. Be sure to show your passion for your career path and tie your answer to an area of focus related to AmerisourceBergen.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"At AmerisourceBergen, I know that one of your primary focuses is XYZ. This particular focus is one of the reasons I applied to work here; the study of XYZ is a particular passion of mine."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"We have so many options when it comes to research topics. If I had to choose just one area of research, I would choose to research autism, and the spectrum, in full. My little brother received an autism diagnosis recently, and I would like to learn more about it."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
General
30. Do you prefer to work with studies related to humans, animals, or plant life?
How to Answer
Perhaps you have a preference, and maybe you don't. However you answer this question, be sure to keep your reply positive. (i.e. Avoid saying, "I dislike studies related to animals." You don't want to shut down any particular practice.)
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I can honestly say that I do not have a preference as of yet. As I continue to carve out my career, that may change; however, for the moment, I am happy to be working in the biotech industry in any focus."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Operational
31. How do you determine priorities when you have multiple projects due?
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that you can be diligent when it comes to assessing your priorities. Discuss the methods and tools you use to prioritize and complete multiple projects.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Pro Tip
Prioritizing is a skill that requires practice. There are many approaches you can take. Here are some suggestions:
1) Make a list. By thinking through and writing down each task, you can see it on paper.
2) Mark what is urgent or essential. Take into account deadlines and meetings.
3) Organize each task based on effort and estimated value. Considering due dates and how long it will take to do each item (also considering how much time you have).
Show the interviewer that you have a system in place that helps you to think through what needs to happen and when. The better you can prioritize, the more productive you will be, making you an asset to their company!
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I determine which project requires my attention by the number of hours we are behind and the project size. I am comfortable delegating tasks when needed, but I am also aware that these times will require additional hours from me. Never have I underdelivered on a deadline."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Operational
32. When a problem requires a quick solution, how do you respond?
How to Answer
When it comes to complex problem-solving, decisions do not always arrive quickly. It takes practice, experience, and confidence to learn which decisions yield the best results.
Problems that require you to act quickly can be emergencies, such as knowing where the fire extinguisher is and grabbing it fast enough to put out a small grease fire in the company kitchen. Other quick decisions could involve being asked to take on a new responsibility and only given five minutes to decide if you are prepared to take it on.
Going with your gut is a skill, and the more you learn to trust your intuition, the easier it becomes to make these types of decisions. Demonstrate that you are confident and able to react swiftly when the need arises.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"When an urgent problem arises at work, I respond in a calm and assuring manner. I am a natural leader, which means that my team often looks to me for answers. Last week, we had an administrative employee no-show on a crucial and busy day. I called a temp agency, and they had the position filled in one hour."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I react swiftly in emergencies. Perhaps my skills come from my years as a parent, having to think fast and put out fires! If a quick solution is required, I do a fast overview of the facts and make a decision based on risk factors."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Operational
33. What sources do you look to when you need to solve a complicated problem?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know that you can think outside the box or even ask for help when you are stuck on a complicated problem.
Maybe you look to a mentor or boss for advice. Perhaps you have handbooks, manuals, and systems you turn to for help. Offer some relevant examples based on your industry. If you work in the medical field, you may turn to textbooks, online research, colleagues, or even a patient's history to find the right solution. If you work in customer service, you may ask the customer what they need to find the best way to solve the problem.
Show the interviewer that you are knowledgeable and equipped to handle these types of scenarios.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"When faced with a complicated problem, I look to the resources that my current company has provided me. The answer is almost always there. If it's a moral dilemma rather than a knowledge-based dilemma, I will ask my supervisor for his thoughts and opinion since I value him as a mentor and expert in our industry."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"To solve a complex issue, I reach out to a manager or mentor from a previous role to ask how they handled such issues in the past. I am always ready to dive back into our handbook, but these types of scenarios are often not covered there, which is why I value a human, experiential approach. I know that there are so many folks in the industry who have so much to teach me and have probably already "been-there-done-that," so I love to utilize them as a resource."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Operational
34. How do you stay informed about changes in the Pharma/Biotech industry?
How to Answer
The Pharma/Biotech industry is fast-moving, and changes and developments happen all the time. Assure the interviewer that you are engaged when it comes to industry-related changes.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I follow multiple medical journals and blogs related to changes in the Pharma/Biotech industry. My favorite is wiley.com, which is a strong source for updates in a variety of related medical studies."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I have set up some industry-related google alerts, and I also subscribe to Pharma Forum, Science Direct, and Medical Futurist online. I am always looking for new opportunities to learn, so if you have recommendations, I am happy to hear them!"
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
Teamwork
35. In your opinion, why is it important to develop relationships with coworkers?
How to Answer
The answer to this question may seem obvious to you because enjoying your time with coworkers is sometimes the best part of the job! If you aren't a naturally social person, this question may be more challenging to answer.
Talk to the interviewer about how you develop relationships with coworkers when you start a new job. Think about what is important to you about these relationships. Talk about how your coworkers motivate you, alleviate your stress, or support you.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I value my relationships with my coworkers because we support each other and make each other laugh when the work environment becomes intense. I have a coworker that I eat lunch with every day. We've helped each other by simply listening to what's going on in each other's lives. It's nice to have colleagues who understand you on a personal level."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"To accomplish anything in a job, you need your team members. I rely on my team members to get projects done. I often call them in when I need advice or to help pick up the slack when I'm in a pinch. If you don't have a good rapport with your co-workers, it can limit your ability to succeed in your job."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 27th, 2022