33 Amgen Interview Questions & Answers
Behavioral
1. List three qualities that make you the best candidate for Amgen.
How to Answer
Amgen values employees who are science-based, competitive, ethical, team-oriented, and collaborative. Think about these company values along with any that are specifically mentioned in the job description. Discuss the attributes that will help you to stand out as a top candidate.
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 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 Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
Here are some qualities that 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 minded
- Thirst for knowledge
Behavioral
2. How do you handle stress at work?
How to Answer
Working in an industry that is fast-paced and ever-changing can be very stressful. The interviewer will use this question to gauge how you react to adversity and if you're able to remain calm in stressful situations and environments. Are you resilient? Can you persevere or do you give up easily? Demonstrate ways that you are proactive in managing stress.
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I first make sure that in my personal life, I'm eating healthy, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep so that I'm functioning optimally at work. In the workplace, I take advantage of one-on-one meetings with my manager and use that time to discuss my current workload and any barriers that I may be facing that would cause stress. I refrain from negativity and commit to bringing issues up as needed instead of letting them fester."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I am not afraid to ask for help when I need it and I keep communication open with my manager. If I'm feeling burned out or like there is an obstacle I cannot overcome, I immediately voice that to my manager so we can talk through it."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
Behavioral
3. How do you delegate tasks?
How to Answer
Delegation is a requirement to be an effective leader and good communication skills are required to delegate tasks and projects successfully. When answering this question, walk the interviewer through your thought process of how you decide what to delegate and to who. How do you ensure your employees have the capacity to assist you and how do you ensure the tasks are being completed without being a micromanager?
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Typically, I look at priorities to determine what needs attention quickly. I then speak with my team members who see who has the capacity to take on additional tasks, and from there, I look at what strengths the team members have and align them with those tasks. I give clear expectations of the project and when I expect them to be completed. I'm not a micromanager, so I typically trust them to get the work done and to come to me if they need support or have questions along the way."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I first choose the tasks I'm going to delegate, then I look for the team member with the skill sets and capacity to assist. I give clear directions on what needs to be done and when and answer any questions they have. Delegation assists me with a heavy workload and builds trust between my team members and me."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
Behavioral
4. How do you measure success?
How to Answer
Amgen has over 20,000 employees globally and reported nearly $29 billion in revenue in 2021, so they are a very successful company. Speak about how you define success both personally and professionally. Give examples of success that might relate to the position you're applying for (sales, employee retention, marketing, etc.).
Can you define and measure goals? Are you willing to work hard and push others to do the same? What have you achieved short-term and long-term? How does your drive align with the company? What makes the company you're interviewing with successful in the industry? What sets them apart and how can you support that?
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I define success by my ability to achieve my short-term and long-term goals both personally and professionally. I set milestones for myself and break my goals down into manageable pieces. I also measure success by what I've learned and how achieving my goals has helped me grow and set future goals to really stretch myself."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I am a naturally competitive person, and so I'm very driven by goals and strive to be a top performer. In my last sales role, I was able to exceed our sales targets by over 25% each quarter. I even won the rookie of the year award! I also measure success by customer satisfaction and take great pride in having good feedback in my 360 reviews."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
Behavioral
5. When have you shown great integrity at work?
How to Answer
Integrity and ethics are core values at Amgen. These questions are designed for the interviewer to be able to discover more about your character. Show examples of how you've "done the right thing" even when it may have cost you personally or professionally. How have you been a good role model to others? Demonstrate how you bring honesty and fairness to the team.
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"In my last position, I was responsible for the cash deposit on a daily basis. There was never a discrepancy in the four years that I worked there. I best show my integrity by being a consistently reliable and honest employee."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I keep up with regular ethics and compliance training and regularly review our policies and procedures to ensure I'm following the company's practices. I am always honest when filling out reports or other documents. Even if I may have missed a goal, I always enter data and other information correctly. Anytime something doesn't feel right or I'm unsure of a situation, I always talk to my manager."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
Behavioral
6. When a problem requires a quick solution, how do you respond?
How to Answer
When it comes to complex problem solving, the decisions do not always arrive quickly. It takes practice, experience, and confidence to learn what sorts of decisions yield the best results. Problems that require you to act quickly can be emergency situations 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 be if you are asked to take on a new responsibility and are only given five minutes to decide if it's something you are prepared to take 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 Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"When an urgent problem arises at work, I always try to respond in a calm and assuring manner. I am a natural leader which means that my team often looks to me for answers. One instance of my fast-thinking was just last week when we had an administrative employee no-show on a crucial and busy day for us. I called a temp agency, and they had the position filled in just one hour."
2nd Answer Example
"I react swiftly in emergency situations. 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 will do a fast overview of the facts and make a decision based on risk factors."
Behavioral
7. 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 Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"When faced with a complicated problem, I will look to the resources that my current company has provided me. The answer is almost always in there. If it's more of a moral dilemma versus 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 Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"To solve a complex issue, I will reach out to a manager or mentor from a previous role to ask them how they've 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."
Behavioral
8. What are your strengths?
How to Answer
Read the job description thoroughly to understand what soft skills and core areas of strength are required to be successful in the role. Think about your strengths and how those will prove valuable to the hiring manager. Pick one or two strengths and be specific in how this strength relates to the role you're applying for. Give concise examples in your answer.
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I am an outside-the-box thinker and love creative solutions. I thrive on being given a problem with no apparent solution and being given the opportunity to dive into the issue, understand the ins and outs, what system is currently in place, and, if there is none, build that process from the ground up. I love collaborating with others in these situations but am just as happy to problem solve independently."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"In past performance reviews, I was consistently rated high in being team-oriented. I'm always willing to do what it takes to get the job done and for my team and me to be successful. No task is below me. I believe in supporting everyone in order to support the greater goals of the organization. Even though I was not in a leadership role, in my last position, I volunteered to serve as a "peer guide" and spent time weekly with new hires helping them navigate through onboarding and getting acclimated and trained."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
Behavioral
9. Who would you say inspires you?
How to Answer
The interviewer is trying to discover more about who your role models are and why they motivate you. Think about who has mentored you in the pharm/biotech industry or a successful professional that you aspire to be like. Perhaps you look up to a parent who was a hard worker or a teacher who encouraged you to become who you are today. Whomever this inspiring person may be, remember that it's an answer from the heart that the interviewer is looking for.
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"There are a few individuals in this industry who inspire me. I follow a few industry leaders including Jennifer Douda. Her achievement of winning the 2020 Nobel Prize in Chemistry really motivated me to learn more about her work and contributions to science."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"My previous manager was a huge inspiration to me. Her passion for this industry and leading others was so motivating and put the fire in me to climb the ladder in my career."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
Behavioral
10. In your opinion, why is it important to develop relationships with coworkers?
How to Answer
This answer 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 seem 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. Do your co-workers motivate you when you feel overworked? Do your coworkers give you a reason to show up to work when your boss has been giving you a hard time?
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, and we also cover for one another if someone is out of the office. It's nice to have colleagues who understand you on a personal level."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"To accomplish anything in a job, you need your team members. Your team members are who you rely on to get a project done. You will often call them in when you need advice, or to help pick up the slack when you're in a pinch. If you don't have a good rapport with your co-workers, it can limit your ability to be great at your job."
Behavioral
11. 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 from university as an honors student while still working full-time in a related field. I was 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 Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 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 being able to train and shape the new additions to the department is an awesome pat on the back."
Capability
12. How do you limit distractions?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to make sure that you can reduce distractions and be effective at getting the job done. Describe specifically how you stay focused and on task whether you're working in the office or remotely.
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I have a designated workspace set up in my home for when I work remotely. As far as when I'm on my laptop, I designate time each week as "focus time" and during this time, I mark myself as do not disturb on Teams and I exit my email. I notify my manager each week of these blocks of time so she knows to text me if anything urgent comes up while I'm in these periods of focus offline."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I typically keep my phone on silent and only check it during my designated breaks. I also notify my coworkers when I plan to be in focus mode and may even put headphones on at my desk, so others know that I'm not available to chat."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
Capability
13. What are some time management techniques that you use?
How to Answer
Working in a fast-paced environment often means juggling multiple projects and tasks and also means priorities are often shifting. How do you decide what needs to be done urgently and what can wait? Give specific examples of techniques and tools you use to manage your time effectively.
When answering this question, 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 Amgen!
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I will determine which project requires my attention by the number of hours we are behind and then the project size. I am comfortable delegating tasks when needed, but I am also aware that these times will require an additional commitment of hours from me. I utilize a planner and a task organizer in Microsoft and each week I create a dashboard of things I need to get done. I frequently block time on my calendar for "distraction-free" periods where I close out my instant messenger to allow focus time to complete tasks."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I make lists of things that need to be done and what priority they are. I have a color-coding system in Sheets that I utilize when making my lists. I have weekly touchpoints with my manager for accountability and recalibration of the current priorities. I also collaborate with peers to share best practices and ensure we're all being as effective as we can be with templates and documents, etc."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
Capability
14. When have you had to be extra thorough in completing tasks?
How to Answer
Many roles at Amgen require the employee to be detail-oriented and small mistakes could have a negative impact on the team and business. The interviewer is trying to discover more about how you focus on a project, if you can avoid distractions, and how you deliver accurate and quality results. Discuss a time when you were extra thorough during a work-related project.
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"In my current roles, I have many data analytics projects in Excel. The data is critical to the work we do so I make sure that I take my time when entering and reviewing information. I do not multitask when I'm working on such projects and I exit platforms that could be distracting when I need to really focus (i.e. Teams, Zoom, Google Chats, etc.). I take breaks as needed if I start to make mistakes and when I have a finished product, I spot check my data and formulas and will often have a second set of eyes review it whether it's a team member or my supervisor."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I often work on accounting projects that require 100% accuracy. Before I start a project, I take lots of notes and ask questions where I need clarity. When I begin, I often do tasks that require a lot of attention to detail and focus early in the day when my mind is fresh and sharp and when my distractions are minimal. I create milestones to work through the project and I frequently go back and check my work as I progress, giving it one final review before submitting."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
Capability
15. How do you stay informed on changes in the Pharma/Biotech industry?
How to Answer
Amgen is committed to unlocking the potential of biology for patients suffering from serious illnesses by discovering, developing, manufacturing, and delivering innovative human therapeutics. This means that change happens- often and rapidly, so it's important that as an employee you are interested in a fast-paced environment that requires constant updates on trends and related information.
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 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."
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 Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
User-Submitted Answer
"I make sure that I am regularly reading the news and educating myself on changes. I find that speaking to colleagues helps too."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Margarita Clarke Reviewed the Above Answer
Good start, let's use some more precision to show you are active in the industry.
"I stay informed through industry news, furthering my education on new findings and staying active in my network."
Direct
16. Are you applying for any other jobs?
How to Answer
Be honest about your level of job seeking. Are you passively looking or actively looking? Are you interviewing with other companies and if so, are you in the final interview stages? This gives the interviewer a better idea of how seriously you're pursuing other opportunities, how soon you're looking to make a move, and how quickly they need to make a decision. If you are interviewing elsewhere but Amgen is your preferred employer, don't be afraid to share that insight.
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I am keeping an eye out for viable positions. Although I am not in final stages with any other company, I am actively seeking a new position."
2nd Answer Example
"I'm currently looking to make a move in the next 4-8 weeks and have been actively interviewing. I've done a lot of research and was really impressed by all the employer awards Amgen has won. Your company is my preferred employer of choice and I'm very interested in this opportunity."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
Discovery
17. Why did you choose a career in the Pharma/Biotech industry?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know what drew you into a career within their industry. Was it your passion from a young age or did you start a career in another area and move to pharma/biotech over the years? Share with the interviewer what you're passionate about professionally and what motivates you to continue on this path.
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I chose a career in Pharma/Biotech because I have always had an attraction to the study of medicine and the study of science, and the correlation between them. It's constantly evolving and with each new innovation or product development, lives are changed for the better."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I love working in this industry because it's so fast-paced and exciting. I love being a part of science and innovation that improves the lives of others. On top of that, there is a lot of room for professional growth and endless possibilities for advancement."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
Discovery
18. 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. If you had zero limitations, what area within pharmaceuticals would you focus on? Be sure to show your passion for your career path and tie your answer into an area of focus related to Amgen.
1st Answer Example
"At Amgen I know that one of your primary focuses is on XYZ. This particular focus is one of the reasons why I applied to work here; the study of XYZ is a particular passion of mine."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 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 have the drive to learn more about it."
Discovery
19. How many years have you worked in the Pharma/Biotech industry? What keeps you interested in our line of work?
How to Answer
Take a few minutes to walk the interviewer through your work history, highlighting the most relevant positions and skills. Talk to the interviewer about your desire to work for Amgen long-term.
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 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 Amgen."
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 for the entire length of my career. At this point, starting in this apprenticeship role and then, moving forward into a role further focused on the development of new treatments."
Discovery
20. What industry related changes do you foresee in the next 12 months?
How to Answer
This question provides insight into how knowledgeable you are of the industry in general and how current you are on trends and industry updates. Do some research on Amgen and be prepared to include upcoming product launches or other exciting news they may be rolling out in the near future.
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I read on your website that Amgen 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 see this particular one being very significant in the upcoming months."
2nd Answer Example
"I was recently reading 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!"
Discovery
21. What do you know about Amgen?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to see if you've taken the time to research the company and learn more about what they do and what they stand for. Take the time to speak to what you've read about the leadership team, their mission, what they value, the products and services they offer, and the customer base they serve.
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I know that Amgen is a leader in the biotech industry, was founded in 1980, and currently employs over 20,000 people. Some of the recent products launched I'm familiar with would be Aimovig for migraine prevention and Enbrel to treat arthritis."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I have always been familiar with Amgen as a company but didn't know much about Amgen as an employer. Through research, I was pleased to find that Amgen has won so many awards such as, "best employer for women, best employer for new grads, diversity and disability inclusion."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
Discovery
22. Why are you leaving your current company?
How to Answer
This is a question that Amgen is known to ask in the interview process. Be honest in your explanation, but refrain from speaking negatively about your current employer, manager, or colleagues. Focus on what you're looking for in your next role or organization that you are missing at your current job.
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I really love my current company and the people I work with. However, the commute is getting to be too much. There's a lot of wear and tear on my vehicle, and gas prices are high, so I'm looking for something closer to home while still doing the work I'm passionate about."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I have been passively looking at opportunities online to see what else is out there and noticed a post for Amgen. As I did more research, I found that you're listed as a best employer for new grads, diversity, and women, among several others. I'm really looking to align myself with a larger organization with more growth opportunities that also has similar values."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
Discovery
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. Be sure you to research the company beforehand and tie in any values that you and Amgen share (for example from their website, "work in teams, ensure quality, trust and respect each other, be ethical"). Give an honest answer here and be concise and positive; refrain from speaking poorly of any previous managers or organizations.
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"My ideal employer is one that brings revolutionary products to market to increase the quality of life for others. I work best with organizations who have a penchant for learning and also promote their employees based on performance."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I am looking to join an organization where continuous learning is encouraged. It's important to me as I carve out my career, to learn new skills under an organization that wants me to grow with them."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
Discovery
24. If you could choose any special area of focus with Amgen, which would you choose?
How to Answer
Working for Amgen could open a variety of career options for you. If you had your choice when it comes to a career path, which career do you think you would choose? Talk to the interviewer about where you'd like to see your career path go with Amgen.
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 Amgen. 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)."
2nd Answer Example
"That is a challenging question when there are so many interesting options at my fingertips. If I had to choose just one area of specialty today, I would choose a topic within animal science. I am passionate about the health of animals."
User-Submitted Answer
"I'm passionate about the immunology/oncology and hematology areas. I find that these areas are always challenging my knowledge and I'm always learning something new about the way our bodies work."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
Nice! It's great that these areas interest you. Can you provide a specific example of a time when you learned something new in one of these areas that amazed and/or intrigued you? Additional details will build out your answer and make it more meaningful and memorable to the interviewer. Good job!
Discovery
25. In your opinion, what is the biggest development in Biotechnology in the past 3 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. What do you foresee as the most significant development that has happened in the past few years? Are any related to Amgen's success?
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"There have been so many developments in biotechnology in the past three years, but I do feel that the biggest was the development in gene editing. It's an incredibly controversial and intriguing practice."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"There is a multitude of biotech developments from which to choose! I was recently reading about these 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?"
User-Submitted Answer
"Covid 19 vaccine."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
Definitely! Can you talk more about why you think this was the biggest development? Although it might seem obvious, providing more information and opinions will make your response more memorable to the interviewer. This is also an opportunity to show off your knowledge. Great job!
Discovery
26. In your opinion, what is the biggest development in Pharmaceuticals in the past 3 years?
How to Answer
The term 'pharmaceutical' refers to the creation and sale of medicine and this makes up a large portion of Amgen's revenue. Research industry developments in general and also be able to speak to some of Amgen's biggest successes and why you feel they have changed lives.
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"There have been so many developments in the pharmaceutical industry in the past three years, but I do feel that the biggest was the creation of the first vaccine for Dengue."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I am most impressed by the way the pharma industry has switched their 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 Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
Discovery
27. 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 Amgen?
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about your favorite area of study when it comes to pharma /biotech. Why would you 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 Amgen.
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"If I could choose any area of focus I would enjoy a deeper focus on orthobiologics. The idea of finding advanced ways of assisting the body in healing itself is fascinating to me. If there were advancements in this area, I feel it could help your organization to achieve some major goals as well."
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 this career here since this is one of your larger areas of focus. Your biochemical pharmacology department is so advanced, the idea of landing a job in that area is fascinating to me."
Discovery
28. How does this position fit into your career goals?
How to Answer
Speak about your related experiences in employment, volunteer work, and your education. How does this position fit into your career path? Is this a lateral move, a steppingstone on your career path, or a promotion from your current role? How long do you see yourself at Amgen and how does the position tie into your long-term goals?
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I want to join an organization I can be with for the next several years and grow. I noticed on the Amgen careers page that there are several areas of opportunity in research and development as well as innovation and technology. It looks like there are many opportunities for advancement. I also noticed that Amgen has won many employer awards, so the company would align with my long-term desire to find a company with a good culture and provide growth opportunities.
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I'm a recent graduate looking for my first role within a stable and reputable biotech company. Amgen is a leader in the industry, and I am excited for the opportunity to join such an incredible team of science professionals."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
Discovery
29. Do you prefer to work with studies related to humans, animals, or plant life?
How to Answer
Amgen is a pioneer in science and a leader in the biotech industry. 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"). Demonstrate that you're open-minded and willing to work in any area needed.
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Most of my experience has been working on the human side. In my last role, I lead projects related to drug trials in humans and supported a lot of research and surveys in this area."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I can honestly say that I do not have a preference as of yet. As I continue to evolve in my career, that may change. However, for the moment, I am happy to be working in the biotech industry in any related focus."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
Leadership
30. How do you handle conflict among your team?
How to Answer
Conflict among teams is inevitable but when managed properly, can be healthy. A leader must be effective at creating cohesion among the team and help navigate conflicts when they arise.
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I encourage team building regularly and I do this to help them build relationships with one another. By doing so, they are often able to resolve conflicts among themselves, but occasionally, situations will get escalated to me. In those cases, I take a neutral stance as I speak with each employee individually and I seek to listen to and understand their perspective. I do expect my team to come to me with constructive feedback and solutions; I do not allow for complaining and negativity. I often use this time to coach and help them see things from another perspective and ask probing questions to help them get to a reasonable resolution."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I usually investigate the situation and speak with all parties involved in the conflict. I do not engage in bad-mouthing nor allow my employees to speak negatively about another. I try to get to the root cause of a problem, and it's often a lack of communication, a misunderstanding of tone in an email, or something similar that is relatively easy to resolve. If there is a conflict that I'm uncomfortable with or a situation I feel may need disciplinary action, I immediately involve my HR business partner."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
Salary
31. What are your salary expectations?
How to Answer
Provide Amgen with a target range that you would like your salary to fall within given your experience and the position that you are applying for. By providing a range, you are demonstrating flexibility while also voicing what you feel you are worth. The Amgen website mentions a Total Rewards program, "designed to secure the long-term financial, physical, and overall wellbeing of our employee and their families. When compared to other leading biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, it's clear: Our programs are among the very best." You can also mention that the total benefits package would also impact your desired salary and you'd like to learn more.
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Given my background, formal education, and on-the-job experience, I want to earn between $70,000 and $ 75,000. However, medical benefits and retirement plans are also important to me and are aspects I would consider."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"Base salary is important to me, however, I'm really looking for a better work-life balance. Ideally, I would like to be in the $60-$65,000 range, but I'm definitely open to negotiating based on the entire compensation package and time off plans."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
Technical
32. 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 may have achieved.
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I have a Bachelor's degree in Biology from Tampa College of Natural and Health Sciences. I graduated with Honors, which was an especially proud moment for me since I had also been working part-time."
Written by Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I recently graduated from the University of Georgia with my Degree in Pharmaceutical Science. With this degree, I look forward to joining Amgen and carving out a great career with you. When the timing is right, I do 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 Jaymie Payne on October 11th, 2022
Technical
33. Would you further your post-secondary education to include a Ph.D. in your field?
How to Answer
Some upper-level positions within Amgen 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."