What do you do when you are given an assignment and you are unfamiliar with how to complete the task?

"It depends on the assignment. If it is something I believe I can research and figure out how to complete the task, I will go that route. Suppose the job is something particular to the company I am working for, and it involves a specific way to complete it. In that case, I will tell the person giving me the assignment I am unfamiliar with how to do the task. I will ask them to show me or point me in the right direction, so I complete the assignment correctly."

The interviewer asks this question to gain insight into your communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. They want to understand how you tackle unfamiliar assignments and know you will ask for help when needed.

Focus on showing how you approach a situation you are unfamiliar with. You want the interviewer to see that you have critical-thinking skills and can research how to complete an assignment. Still, you also want to show them you are unafraid to ask for clarification so you do not complete the task incorrectly.

What is your greatest weakness, and what are you doing to improve?

"My greatest weakness as a student has been remembering people's names when I first meet them. I understand it is a weakness in this profession because I need to remember my customers' and coworkers' names. I recently bought a book called 'How to Remember Names and Faces' by Luis Echeverria. He is a Memory Master Champion and guarantees success by reading his book and practicing his memory training exercises. I have been reading the book for a week and already found I remember people's names and faces better. I am confident this weakness will become a strength when I am finished with the book and the exercises."

The interviewer wants to hear about your greatest weakness as a student or in the workplace 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 life and take steps to improve, it shows the interviewer that you are motivated and inspired to grow professionally.

Focus on a weakness related to your profession, but not one that is an essential job duty. For example, suppose you say your weakness is your verbal communication skills. In that case, the interviewer may pass you over for another candidate since that skill is an essential part of being an excellent Eli Lilly Intern.

How well do you get along with others?

"I collaborate very well with others. It helps when like-minded individuals work towards a common goal for things to flow smoothly in the workplace. In my three years in college and working in retail, I have never had any issues with classmates or coworkers. I enjoy working independently and with others and learning from their experiences."

While some of your job duties will entail working independently, much of the time, you will be collaborating with other members of the Eli Lilly team and will be working closely with your mentor. The interviewer wants to hear that you are a team player and can work well with diverse groups.

If you have work experience collaborating with others, describe how well you have worked with others in the past. If you do not have previous work experience, explain how you have worked with others on a sports team or in school.

How would you rate your planning and organizational skills?

"I would rate my planning and organizational skills a 9 out of 10. I feel I am extremely organized but gave myself a nine since there is always room for improvement. I use a calendar app on my phone to plan my day, which helps me stay focused and organized. I also use a file system to organize my assignments and projects."

Two of the required skills mentioned on the Eli and Lilly Internship website are planning and organizational skills. Eli Lilly Interns must possess both of these skills to be considered for the position. Rate your skills on a 1-10 scale, but remember to say your skills are less than a ten since there is always room for improvement.

Focus on rating your skills, then give an example of how you plan and stay organized. If you have work experience, use an example from your previous job. If you do not have work experience, provide an example of how you plan and stay organized at school.

How would your references describe you?

"I have an excellent list of references who will say that I am a hard worker who always brings a positive attitude to the workplace. I learn new concepts quickly and seek out opportunities to help others. I have three copies of performance reviews and letters of recommendation for your file if you would like them."

The interviewer wants to hear that your references will positively describe you. Think about the constructive things your references have said about you in the past. Be complimentary of yourself - now is not the time to be super humble.

If you have past performance reviews or letters of recommendation from your references, review them before your interview. You will be better prepared to answer the question if what they wrote is fresh in your mind. It is also good to have copies for the interviewer if they would like a copy for their file. If you do not have performance reviews or letters of recommendation, think of how your references have complimented you in the past.

How well do you work under pressure?

"I work very well under pressure. As a full-time student with a full load, I am constantly under pressure to do my homework and complete multiple assignments. I also work part-time, so I have developed a system that prioritizes the most urgent assignments and tasks I need to complete to stay on track. Being organized and remaining focused on the task at hand keeps stress from taking over, which allows me to stay calm while working under pressure."

As an Eli Lilly Intern, you must work well under pressure. You will be responsible for creating projects, working with a team, and meeting project deadlines. Situations will come up that add stress to a project, and you must be able to manage your stress for a successful outcome. The interviewer wants to hear that you work well under pressure and stay focused on your task.

Focus on giving an example of working under pressure in a work or school environment. You might have had a project in danger of missing a deadline because of unforeseen circumstances. Using the STAR method is an excellent way to formulate your response to this question. STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. Briefly describe the situation, explain your role, the measures you took to solve the issues, and the outcome. The interviewer wants to hear that you can effectively work under pressure as an intern.

How would you describe your communication skills?

"I have solid communication skills and feel this skill is one of my greatest strengths. I took two years of communications courses in college and have honed my verbal and written communication skills over the years. I have a letter of recommendation from my previous employer highlighting these skills and have a copy if you would like to see it."

The interviewer asks this question to see that you have the strong oral and written communication skills required for Eli Lilly Intern positions. Your job duties will include speaking to your mentor, managers, coworkers, and the public. You will also be responsible for written communications when writing reports and communicating by email. The interviewer wants to hear that you have the necessary communication skills for the role.

Focus on describing your written and oral communication skills. If you have a former supervisor who commented on your excellent communication skills in a letter of recommendation or performance review, use their description in your response. The interviewer wants to know that you can speak clearly with others while properly documenting reports and other forms of written communications.

Would you describe yourself as a detail-oriented person?

"Yes, I pride myself on my attention to detail. I am meticulous when working on projects and always provide error-free work."

As an Eli Lilly Intern, you must pay attention to detail. You will be in charge of projects, and the interviewer wants to hear that your work will not need major correcting. The interviewer wants to hear that you pay attention to detail to see that you will be an excellent addition to their team.

If you have a letter of recommendation or performance review from a previous employer that describes your attention to detail, let the interviewer know when responding to this question. When a former employer or supervisor comments on your attention to detail, it carries more weight than when you describe yourself. If you do not have a letter or performance review, give an example of why you consider yourself a detail-oriented person.

How did you hear about this position?

"I heard about the position from Adam Webster, one of your recruiters. I met Adam at a career fair at my university and became very intrigued about the company and the position. Adam encouraged me to apply, and I am sure glad I did."

Eli Lilly and Company invests 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, focusing on describing the recruiter's name, the website where the agency posted the job, the agency website, or which employee referred you.

What do you like to do in your free time?

"Right now, with going to school full-time and working part-time, my free time is spent doing laundry, paying bills, and grocery shopping. Nothing too fun! But, when I do have some downtime, I enjoy riding my bike around town with my boyfriend, trying new restaurants, and going to the bookstore or library to find good books to read."

The interviewer asks this question to see what interests you and if you have healthy avenues to decompress. They want to hear what hobbies and activities you enjoy and know that you spend time away from work and school destressing from the pressures of the job and your school workload.

Focus on describing three or four activities you enjoy. The interviewer wants to see what you are interested in and determine how well you will get along with other interns and team members based on your interests.

Do you have good command of Microsoft Office programs?

"Yes, I have an excellent command of all Microsoft Office programs. I have been using Microsoft Office for six years and feel that I am intermediate to expert, especially using Microsoft Excel and Word."

Eli Lilly interns must have a good command of all Microsoft Office programs, emphasizing Microsoft Excel. The Eli Lilly website specifies having a good knowledge of Microsoft Office programs with an emphasis on Excel in the intern job description. The interviewer wants to hear you meet their requirements.

Focus on describing your skill level with Microsoft Office programs. You might describe yourself as an intermediate level with Microsoft Word and PowerPoint and expert level at Excel. Assure the interviewer you have a more than basic skill level working with Microsoft Office.

Do you potentially see yourself working with our company after your internship?

"Yes, I would love to work for your company after my internship. I have had my sights on Eli Lilly ever since high school, so I am only applying to your company for an internship. After completing the training and receiving my degree, my goal is to work as a Marketing Manager at one of your overseas locations."

Eli Lilly's website says that some interns can be offered a permanent position after completing the internship. The interviewer wants to hear if that is a goal for you to work for their company or if you are only looking for experience to advance your career elsewhere. There is no right or wrong answer. The interviewer only wants to see if you have career plans that include their company.

As with any interview question, focus on being honest in your response. Do not answer that you see yourself working for Eli Lilly after your internship if you have other career aspirations. The interviewer will appreciate your honesty.

Why should we not hire you?

"There is no reason why you should not hire me. I meet all of your intern requirements, and I am energetic, dependable, and have a strong work ethic. If you choose to hire me for the internship, you will not be disappointed in my performance."

The interviewer hopes to hear that there is no reason not to hire you! Tell the interviewer that you would be a great employee, and confidently share that there is no reason not to hire you. You might wrap it up by sharing that you are customer-focused, a team player, have a proven employment record, and are excited about the opportunity to work for Eli Lilly.

Focus on describing the attributes that make you a great employee and how they will benefit Eli Lilly and Company if hired. Assure the interviewer there is no reason why they shouldn't hire you.

After reading the job description, what do you like most about this position?

"There are many aspects of the job description that are appealing. What I like most about this position is promoting Lilly's products to health care professionals. I have worked in a medical office for the past three years and have a comfortable rapport with the health care professionals I am in contact with. I look forward to the opportunity to work as a Sales Intern for your company and gain valuable experience in the pharmaceutical industry."

The interviewer asks this question to see that you have read the job description in its entirety and determine what aspect of the role you like the most. The Eli Lilly Internship job postings have many duties you will be asked to perform. The interviewer wants to know what you like the most to see where your strengths lie.

Focus on describing what you like most about the job and provide your reason why. For example, you might like that you will be responsible for promoting Lilly's products to health care professionals as a Sales Intern. Tell the interviewer why this particular job duty excites you.

We conduct early-stage criminal background checks and drug tests on all of our candidates. Is there anything you would like to disclose at this time?

"I am happy to comply with any background check required. My record is clean, and I do not participate in drug use. You can be assured that if you hire me for this role, I will maintain a clean record."

Eli Lilly and Company need to be very cautious about who they hire for apparent reasons. There is a chance that much of the information you will access could be confidential and dangerous if put into the wrong hands. You will be working with personal employee and company information and must maintain confidentiality. Assure the interviewer that you are most willing to comply with any form of background check and drug test they require.

As with any interview question, you want to focus on being completely honest in your response. As embarrassing as it may be, if you do not think you will pass the drug test or have a criminal background, you need to let the interviewer know that now. If passing the drug test will not be an issue and you do not have a criminal history, assure the interviewer that you will have no problem passing both tests.

What makes you the best candidate for this position?

"In addition to meeting all of the must-haves for this role, I bring additional skills such as being bilingual and having a dual degree in sales and marketing. I look forward to adding these skills and learning from your already amazing team."

The interviewer asks this question to hear what qualities you will bring to Eli Lilly and how it will benefit them if hired. Now is your chance to highlight your best characteristics and experience, showing them you have all the qualifications they require.

Review the job announcement before your interview and highlight the keywords of the qualities, experience, and education the company seeks in an intern. Then, focus on using those keywords in your response. When describing how you meet all of their job requirements, the interviewer will see that you are a highly qualified candidate and place you high on the candidate list.

Have you ever worked as an intern before?

"No, I have never worked as an intern. I have only had my sights on working as an intern for your company and have not applied anywhere else."

The interviewer wants to see if you have been an intern before to understand the amount of training you might need. It is not a requirement to have worked as an intern before, so it is okay if this will be your first internship.

If you have worked as an intern before, describe where and for how long. Explain what you gained from that internship and how you are excited about the opportunity to work as an intern for Eli Lilly. If you have not worked as an intern, say that you have not, then focus on telling the interviewer why you are looking forward to working as an intern for Eli Lilly and Company.

What made you decide to pursue a career in your chosen field?

"I chose to pursue a career in biology because I have been fascinated by living organisms since taking a science class in 7th grade. I enjoy studying living organisms to help develop biological knowledge and understanding of living processes for several different purposes, including treating disease and sustaining the natural environment. My dream job is to work for your company as a biologist and assist in performing DNA Sequencing reactions on the 3730XL DNA Analyzer."

The interviewer wants to understand what motivated and inspired you to pursue a career in your chosen field. They want to gain insight into your personality and see where your passion lies.

Focus on giving your personal reason for choosing this career, responding with enthusiasm and passion. There is no right or wrong answer. The interviewer wants to gain insight into what motivates and inspires you to determine if you will be a good fit for their organization.

What experience do you have in this industry?

"I do not have any experience in the pharmaceutical industry, but I will surely gain experience if hired for the internship. I am pursuing a degree in chemistry and have worked for the past three years as a lab assistant for my chemistry professor, which has given me invaluable experience."

The interviewer asks this question to see if you have experience in the pharmaceutical industry or in the industry you are pursuing with your degree. As a college student, the interviewer does not expect you to have experience. However, they would like to hear if you do.

Focus on describing any experience you have in the pharmaceutical industry or the industry you are pursuing. You can use paid or volunteer experience in your response.

Can you work independently, or do you prefer to be closely supervised?

"I am very comfortable working independently, but I enjoy collaborating with others in a team environment as well. I do not prefer close supervision as I am confident in my skills once I learn something new. If I have a question or require assistance from my manager or mentor, I will not hesitate to ask them."

Many companies are looking for interns who are self-starters and can work independently. While working in a team environment is also required as you collaborate with coworkers and your mentor. Eli Lilly wants interns who can be taught how to do a particular aspect of their job and then work independently. The interviewer asks this question to see that you can work alone and not need to be closely supervised if hired.

Focus on describing that you work well independently and work well with teams. The interviewer wants to hear that you can work in different types of situations but that you do not need close supervision. Eli Lilly's mission is to help students develop leadership skills, which starts with being able to work independently and take the lead.

Why did you choose Eli Lilly and Company for an internship?

"I chose Eli and Lilly over other companies for an internship because your company has an outstanding reputation, and your core values and vision align with mine. I love how the founder said, 'Take what you find here and make it better and better.' I try to do that daily, and I want to work for a company that follows the founder's vision."

The interviewer wants to understand why you chose Eli and Lilly over other companies to work for. They want to see that you have done your research and can give solid reasons for choosing their organization. Respond with enthusiasm and passion in your voice to show the interviewer you are excited about the opportunity to intern with their company.

Focus on showing the interviewer you have done your homework. Review the company website, online reviews, and job description so you can give unique reasons why you want to work for Lilly. (The company website often shortens its name to Lilly). For example, suppose you review the job description and find specific duties you would be responsible for if hired. Then, when you mention those particular duties in your interview, the interviewer will see you were diligent in reading the job description, showing an attention to detail.

What type of degree are you pursuing?

"I am pursuing my bachelor's degree in animal science and am currently a junior in college. Next year, I will complete my degree and want to work in animal biotechnologies."

Eli Lilly Internships are available for students pursuing a degree in the pharmaceutical industry. Areas of study can include biology, chemistry, finance, engineering, human resources, marketing, sales, animal science, etc. The interviewer asks this question to see if you are pursuing a degree in those fields. Each internship offers unique opportunities based on your career path.

Focus on describing which degree you are pursuing, and give a reason why this area interests you. Also, explain how much longer you have before obtaining your degree.

Tell me about your education.

"I am currently a senior at Hodges University, working towards a bachelor's degree in modern marketing. I have maintained a 3.9-grade point average throughout college and plan to go into a master's of marketing program at the University of Cincinnati after graduating. My goal is to work as an intern with your company and become a Marketing Manager after receiving my master's degree."

The Eli Lilly and Company Internship programs seek 3rd or 4th-year college students working towards a bachelor's degree in several different areas of the pharmaceutical industry. The interviewer wants to hear what degree you are pursuing and if your plans include higher education.

Focus on describing your specific area of study, where you are receiving your education, and when you will graduate. If you plan on working towards your master's or doctorate after graduation, highlight that in your response.

What is Lilly's purpose?

"Lilly's purpose is to unite caring with discovery to create medicines that make life better for people around the world."

The Eli Lilly and Company website clearly states its purpose on the first page. The interviewer wants to hear that you researched their company and understand its history, purpose, and values.

Eli Lilly and Company often shorten their name to Lilly on the company website. The first page shows Lilly's Purpose: 'Lilly unites caring with discovery to create medicines that make life better for people around the world.' Focus on memorizing the purpose so you can repeat it with ease. If you need to paraphrase, that is okay; just keep the meaning intact.

What is Eli Lilly's three core values?

"Eli Lilly's three core values that guide the company are integrity, excellence, and respect for people. I am drawn to your company as I hold the same values. I am excited to work for an honest company that provides high-quality products and mutually respects all people."

The interviewer wants to see if you have done your research on their company before your interview. It is always suggested to review the company's website, online reviews, and social media before your interview so you can answer any company-related questions.

Eli Lilly's three core values are listed on their website under 'About Lilly.' The three long-established core values that guide all that the company does are integrity, excellence, and respect for people. Focus on mentioning the three values and how your values align with the company.

What can you tell me about our company's founder?

"Colonel Eli Lilly is the founder of Eli Lilly and Company. Mr. Lilly founded the company in 1876 to meet the needs of the people. His vision was to create high-quality medicines in an era where questionable characters were selling unreliable elixirs."

The interviewer wants to see if you have done your research on their company before your interview. It is always suggested to review the company's website, online reviews, and social media before your interview so you can answer any company-related questions.

The founder of Eli Lilly and Company was Colonel Eli Lilly, who founded the company in 1876. Eli Lilly was committed to creating high-quality medicines that met the needs in an era of unreliable elixirs peddled by questionable characters. Focus on naming the founder, when he founded the company, and a brief history of why he created the company to show the interviewer you have done your homework.

Who is the CEO of our company?

"David Ricks is the CEO of Eli Lilly and Company and was appointed in 2017. I found it interesting that Mr. Ricks has been with Lilly for more than 25 years and started as a business development associate."

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 Eli Lilly and Company.

Show the interviewer you have done in-depth research on their company. Focus your answer on naming the CEO of Eli Lilly and a little history about them. You can mention when they were appointed CEO, who they worked for before Eli Lilly, and any achievements they have made since becoming CEO.

This concludes our interview. Do you have any questions for me?

"Yes, I do have a few questions. Thank you for asking. Could you please describe the company culture? Also, do you have any hesitancy in offering me the position?"

The interviewer wants to make sure that all of your questions about the company or job role are answered during the interview. It is best to ask at least a question or two, showing the interviewer your eagerness to learn all you can. Of course, you want to review the job announcement and research the company beforehand so you are not asking questions that could be found during your research.

Focus on asking questions specific to the role you are interviewing for or the company culture and work environment. Examples of good questions are asking the interviewer how you performed in the interview or if you need to clarify anything, asking what the interviewer likes most about working for the company, or if they have any hesitancy about hiring you.

Do you demonstrate leadership qualities even when you are not in a leadership role?

"Yes, I do. Last month, I was asked to lead a shift when my supervisor was unexpectedly called away for a family emergency. I took charge for five days, and the experience was quite positive. I believe the biggest success factor was that I tried to emulate his leadership style and asked for his help when I wasn't sure what to do. I feel this experience prepared me for a leadership role. I am excited to take on a team lead role again."

This question challenges you to think about how you act as a leader in your daily life. Even if you're not leading a team, you can still demonstrate the qualities of a leader! The interviewer wants to hear that you have the leadership qualities they seek in an Eli Lilly Intern.

You can be a motivator and a confident communicator in any situation at work! Give an example of how you coached a coworker who had difficulty preparing for a big presentation. Maybe you gave them confidence in their strengths by encouraging them, or perhaps you offered some helpful hints. If you do not have a workplace example of demonstrating leadership, use an example from school, church, or a sports team.

Do you see yourself as a leader? When have you led a team?

"Yes, I see myself as a leader. Not only have I managed a team in two prior roles, but I also believe that leadership does not always equate to management. I am sure to lead at all times by providing the best model of enthusiasm and work ethic."

Perhaps you have led a team at work, been a coach for a youth sports team, or were on the advisory board for a non-profit organization. You should always be prepared to show the interviewer that you have a natural ability to lead others. Whether you have led a group of 500 or a team of 2, you must display to the interviewer that you can handle the responsibility that comes with being a leader.

Eli Lilly prides itself on developing students into leaders. Talk about your desire to be a leader. Focus your answer on sharing with the interviewer that you strive to be a role model for others. Explain that you jump at the opportunity to lead groups, encourage your counterparts, and be the face of the company when challenges arise.

Eli Lilly and Company Internship Interview Questions

Go Back

1. What do you do when you are given an assignment and you are unfamiliar with how to complete the task?
2. What is your greatest weakness, and what are you doing to improve?
3. How well do you get along with others?
4. How would you rate your planning and organizational skills?
5. How would your references describe you?
6. How well do you work under pressure?
7. How would you describe your communication skills?
8. Would you describe yourself as a detail-oriented person?
9. How did you hear about this position?
10. What do you like to do in your free time?
11. Do you have good command of Microsoft Office programs?
12. Do you potentially see yourself working with our company after your internship?
13. Why should we not hire you?
14. After reading the job description, what do you like most about this position?
15. We conduct early-stage criminal background checks and drug tests on all of our candidates. Is there anything you would like to disclose at this time?
16. What makes you the best candidate for this position?
17. Have you ever worked as an intern before?
18. What made you decide to pursue a career in your chosen field?
19. What experience do you have in this industry?
20. Can you work independently, or do you prefer to be closely supervised?
21. Why did you choose Eli Lilly and Company for an internship?
22. What type of degree are you pursuing?
23. Tell me about your education.
24. What is Lilly's purpose?
25. What is Eli Lilly's three core values?
26. What can you tell me about our company's founder?
27. Who is the CEO of our company?
28. This concludes our interview. Do you have any questions for me?
29. Do you demonstrate leadership qualities even when you are not in a leadership role?
30. Do you see yourself as a leader? When have you led a team?

Eli Lilly and Company Internship Interview Questions

1. What do you do when you are given an assignment and you are unfamiliar with how to complete the task?

2. What is your greatest weakness, and what are you doing to improve?

3. How well do you get along with others?

4. How would you rate your planning and organizational skills?

5. How would your references describe you?

6. How well do you work under pressure?

7. How would you describe your communication skills?

8. Would you describe yourself as a detail-oriented person?

9. How did you hear about this position?

10. What do you like to do in your free time?

11. Do you have good command of Microsoft Office programs?

12. Do you potentially see yourself working with our company after your internship?

13. Why should we not hire you?

14. After reading the job description, what do you like most about this position?

15. We conduct early-stage criminal background checks and drug tests on all of our candidates. Is there anything you would like to disclose at this time?

16. What makes you the best candidate for this position?

17. Have you ever worked as an intern before?

18. What made you decide to pursue a career in your chosen field?

19. What experience do you have in this industry?

20. Can you work independently, or do you prefer to be closely supervised?

21. Why did you choose Eli Lilly and Company for an internship?

22. What type of degree are you pursuing?

23. Tell me about your education.

24. What is Lilly's purpose?

25. What is Eli Lilly's three core values?

26. What can you tell me about our company's founder?

27. Who is the CEO of our company?

28. This concludes our interview. Do you have any questions for me?

29. Do you demonstrate leadership qualities even when you are not in a leadership role?

30. Do you see yourself as a leader? When have you led a team?