30 IQVIA Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our IQVIA interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 10 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Availability
1. IQVIA tries to accommodate employees' scheduling preferences as much as possible. Is there a particular schedule that would best fit your personal/family responsibilities?
What You Need to Know
It's easier to plan a schedule you can agree on now than fix scheduling issues later after telling the interviewer what you think they want to hear. Be honest and direct. Being upfront with the interviewer about the schedule that suits your preference could prevent scheduling conflicts and help them fit you into your perfect schedule earlier.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I am not married and have no children at this time. I am pretty flexible with my schedule. If I had a choice, I would prefer the late shift, as I am a bit of a night owl. However, I am excited about the opportunity to become a part of this team and am willing to work where I'm needed."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I am a single mom with two school-aged children. Ideally, the day shift would be a better fit for me. That would allow me to fulfill my work and home responsibilities without a conflict."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
Behavioral
2. If you had your choice of a research project, what would you choose?
What You Need to Know
The world of research is broad, providing those looking to experience different areas of specialty with great opportunities. CROs work with several sponsors and companies on a variety of projects. Expressing your interests will help the interviewer place you according to your skills or interest.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Research is such an exciting industry. If I had a choice, I would love to work on a project dealing with cancer research. Cancer is a dreadful diagnosis, and I would love to have some part in helping to find better ways to treat and hopefully cure it."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I have always wanted to work in research, but I don't know if I have a favorite or preferred area. Things change so quickly within our industry that I feel like any area I work in would be exciting."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
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Behavioral
3. What do you think your best and worst qualities are?
What You Need to Know
You want to show that you are self-aware and emotionally mature and recognize your strengths and growth opportunities in equal share. Explain how you strive to improve upon your self-perceived strengths and how you strive to turn your growth opportunities into strengths that benefit the team.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I would have to say that one of the things I'd like to improve about myself and that most people recognize about me is I always want to be the 'fixer.' While I know that this is not always a negative thing, I have often let the fact that I couldn't fix a certain situation trouble me. On a lighter note, I believe I have a positive, outgoing personality. I enjoy getting to know others and like to make them feel comfortable."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"My best quality is my willingness to work on any project I am asked to take on. My worst quality is that I am willing to take on too many projects at once. I've had to learn to pace myself and prioritize my tasks so that I am not overwhelmed, and my quality of work does not suffer because I am too busy."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
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Behavioral
4. Have you ever had a disagreement with a boss or co-worker? If so, how was it resolved?
What You Need to Know
On the job, disagreements happen. Being unwilling to compromise or find alternative solutions to a dispute can negatively affect everyone on a team. Your interviewer wants to know how you foster a team mentality through compromise and functional communication with your co-workers.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I believe most employees have had at least one disagreement with a friend or co-worker. Although I consider myself to be pretty easy-going, I am also very passionate about my patients and the care that they receive. I have been aware of disagreements between other co-workers but like to think of myself as a peacekeeper. I feel like professional people should be able to discuss things logically and come to an agreement that is satisfactory for everyone involved."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I think the most common disagreements between myself and others have involved our personal feelings about how healthcare should be carried out. However, I have learned that, while our opinions are important, plans of care are designated by strict guidelines and with the input of everyone on the care team and the patient. Learning to respect those guidelines and patient wishes usually resolves any issues."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
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Behavioral
5. What are your thoughts regarding people who become participants in a clinical trial but leave before the trial ends?
What You Need to Know
Concentrate on the goals and potential benefits of a clinical trial and the missed opportunities for the trial participants and those conducting the studies. Be sympathetic to the participants and the common reasons behind them leaving before the trial ends. Ensure your response to this question reflects the professionalism and experience required of someone who has successfully navigated such terrain.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Without knowing why a participant chooses to leave a trial, it would be difficult to say exactly how I feel about their exiting the trial. Some people become ill or cannot take the effects of the treatment and are forced to leave, while others simply change their minds."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I imagine that people who have worked with clinical trials longer than me may be a bit more opinionated concerning the matter. I think each person should weigh the risks and benefits before agreeing to a trial. However, it is understandable if circumstances arise that could not be predicted."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
Behavioral
6. What are some things you would like others to notice about your personality?
What You Need to Know
This question provides the interviewer an opportunity to get to know you. Remember, you want them to know the good qualities about you, but don't try to 'over-sell' yourself. Such questions provide insights into your personality and how you'll complement their teams. Be forthcoming with the qualities you feel could advance you in building relationships with your teams.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I think one thing people notice about me rather quickly is that I am light-hearted and easy to get along with. Life, in general, has enough tensions. I like to have a positive attitude and be the type of person others feel they can easily approach."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"Once people get to know me, I would like to think that they consider me to be a genuine person. Anyone can fake their way through a day, week, or even months, but I want to be considered genuine, dedicated, and kind."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
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Behavioral
7. Contract Research Organizations such as IQVIA employ people from many backgrounds with a variety of skills. Have you ever worked with a very diverse group of people?
What You Need to Know
In the healthcare industry, it is essential to provide effective universal care. When working for a CRO, diversity among peers and clients is expected. Some people feel intimidated when exposed to new cultures and beliefs. Show the interviewer you are open to meeting and learning about new people, with no reservations about becoming an integral part of a diverse team. Be positive with your response.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"The largest diverse group I worked with was in my clinical rotation at University Medical Center. I was afforded the opportunity to meet people from different cultures, religions, and professional backgrounds. It gave me an eye-opening experience of how many wonderful people there are!"
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I think diversity in the healthcare industry is essential. People from all over the world now call our country their home. I believe learning about and showing an appreciation for people from different walks of life only makes us stronger as we build upon the common bond of caring for others."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
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Amanda's Feedback
Behavioral
8. If you were the person responsible for hiring at IQVIA, what characteristics would you look for in a candidate? Do you feel that you possess those traits?
What You Need to Know
This question tests your sincerity. The interviewer wants to know what qualities you think are crucial in performing this job. Also, your answer will inform the interviewer if you hold yourself to the same standard as you do others. If you want to see specific characteristics in your peers, you should be able to confidently tell the interviewer that you also possess those traits.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I believe that honesty is important no matter the job title. I have found that being honest with people creates an atmosphere of mutual trust and respect. Those qualities, I feel, are essential when building rapport with patients and co-workers. In the field of research, we have to hold one another to a high standard of accountability. We are responsible for reporting vital information to sponsors/companies and caring for the candidates involved in our research. Also, yes, I do believe I possess these qualities. I strive to ensure that I don't ask something of others that I am not willing to give in return."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"There are many characteristics that I feel are important when considering hiring someone. I think personal accountability and a willingness to learn from and contribute to a team are extremely important in this role. I also believe I possess these qualities."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
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Behavioral
9. What is something that causes you stress at work, and how do you try to overcome it?
What You Need to Know
Stress is inevitable no matter what profession one chooses. It's how we deal with it that makes a difference. The interviewer, therefore, is interested in how you control your stress and what methods you use to work through it.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I think we all experience stress in different ways. The work-related stressor I have experienced most is not being able to give everyone the results that they want in a clinical trial. Although it is frustrating, I am also mature enough to know that if we don't succeed at something today, tomorrow we can try again."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I think I cause myself more stress than any external event or situation. I say that because I put pressure on myself to succeed and see things through to the end. As researchers, we don't always get the results we are hoping for. I have to remind myself that that is why we do research."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
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Amanda's Feedback
Behavioral
10. What makes you feel you have done a good job or have been successful?
What You Need to Know
The interviewer wants to know how you define success. Everyone wants to have a sense of fulfillment or accomplishment in their work. Understanding what makes you feel accomplished tells the interviewer a lot about you and your work ethic. Be open about the things that make you feel like you have done a job well.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"At the end of the day, I am happy knowing I have participated in a job/study that made a difference for someone. For instance, monitoring a clinical trial for a new medication with great results for the participants. That makes me feel fulfilled."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I feel like any day I can go to work and give my best to my co-workers, patients, and anyone I meet is a successful day. Clinical trials happen every day. Life happens one day at a time. I try to live my life to the best of my ability each day."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
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Career Goals
11. While IQVIA likes to employ people who plan to work for us long-term, sometimes plans change. Do you anticipate any significant changes in your life within the next 3-5 years?
What You Need to Know
A CRO like IQVIA often has several projects for different sponsors being conducted simultaneously. Knowing your goals and any changes you expect in your life will allow the interviewer to evaluate if you are interested in having a long-term relationship with their company. If so, be sure to express this. With that said, they'll want to know of any life changes and how they might place you in positions that won't disrupt your plans. With a CRO, if you expect a move or other significant change, they may still offer you employment but within a project that fits your time frame. Either way, be honest with the interviewer. That will be beneficial to both you and IQVIA.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I recently became engaged. Although we have not set a date yet, we have agreed to wait twelve months before the marriage. My fiance just passed the Bar exam and has been offered an opportunity to join an existing law firm. We plan to stay where we are and build a career, not just work a job. Also, we do not plan to have children for at least two years after the wedding. We both feel that becoming established in our careers and saving for our future would be the responsible thing to do before starting a family."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"My spouse is in the military, and, although I would like to say with certainty that I will be living in the same place three years from now, there is no guarantee. I am glad you asked this question because I want to discuss opportunities with IQVIA where I could be useful but may not be obligated for several years until we know if he will be able to stay in one place."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
Career Goals
12. What made you choose a career in research?
What You Need to Know
There is no right or wrong answer to this question. The interviewer simply wants to get to know you. Share the motivators in your life that prompted your career in research.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"When I was a child, one of my friends was diagnosed with leukemia. I wanted to find a way to fix her. She eventually experienced remission and is still well today. I never lost my desire to find ways to help people, and research has one of the broadest platforms I could think of."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"Science was always intriguing to me. I was the kid with the experimental labs and the nurse kits. Finding a career in research was a natural choice for me!"
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
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Communication
13. What advantage do you see in working on research and trials with a CRO rather than a large pharmaceutical company?
What You Need to Know
The interviewer will use this question to get to know you and how you may complement their teams. It is an individual choice whether to seek employment with a CRO rather than a pharmaceutical company. You don't have to 'oversell' the CRO concept or 'downplay' a pharmaceutical company. Simply stating some of the reasons you prefer a CRO is sufficient.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I feel there is more job stability because CROs work with several pharmaceutical clients. If one project is dropped unexpectedly, a CRO can place an employee on a new project with a different sponsor."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"CROs are, to a certain extent, better shielded from the effects of economic decline than pharmaceutical companies. If one of their clients goes under, they still have other companies to work with."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
Communication
14. If a patient participating in a clinical trial expresses a desire for the physician conducting the experiment to provide all their care throughout the trial, what would be the most appropriate advice?
What You Need to Know
The interviewer is not asking for 'facts,' but how you would relate directly with a patient making this request. Having a patient's health care provider work with the research team might prevent medicine contraindications. However, most clinical trials only provide short-term treatments for their designated illness or condition. Clinical trials do not provide extended or complete primary health care, nor are they designed to do so.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I understand that many patients prefer not to see multiple physicians. However, it is important for patients participating in clinical trials to be educated about the role of the staff conducting the trial. For example, the medication or therapy used for a clinical trial usually focuses on a specific illness/disease. It is important for patients to follow up and have continued care with their primary physician. Additionally, providers conducting clinical trials find it beneficial to communicate with the primary physician so we can work together for the best outcome for the patient."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I have always been taught that patients are advised to continue regular follow-ups and care for non-trial related medical issues with their primary care provider. Also, the research teams I have been a part of have always made it a priority to collaborate with the primary physician. First of all, it is a professional courtesy. Further, the open line of communication allows the healthcare team and patient to work together more effectively."
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Stephanie's Feedback
Communication
15. What would you tell a patient who asks what to expect while participating in a clinical trial?
What You Need to Know
The interviewer wants to know if you can distinguish the realities from the patient's expectations of care and communicate this. Patients need to be well informed before beginning any treatment.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I believe in making sure that patients are educated regarding their care. For patients participating in trials, it is important to assure them that participants work with a research or clinical trial team, including doctors, nurses, social workers, and other health care professionals. Before the trial, the research team will check the participant's health and review any special instructions for trial participation. As the trial begins and throughout its duration, the research team will administer treatment and monitor the participant regularly to determine the effectiveness and side effects of the treatment."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"The most important thing is to ensure patients are aware of the trial's objective. For example, if a new drug is being tested, the objective would be that the drug is effective in treating the disease with little to no ill effects. Also, assuring the participant that the research team will work closely with them throughout the trial. Many patients are also relieved to know that the research team will work closely with their primary physician throughout the trial."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
Communication
16. Why do you feel that participation in a clinical trial is a positive decision?
What You Need to Know
When sharing your opinion, support it with facts. That will convey your professionalism and experience.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I believe that participants in clinical trials play a key role in drug development and discovery. Clinical trials contribute to progress in treating and preventing diseases. Most importantly, participants can help others by contributing to medical knowledge and improving public health."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"For many patients, participating in a clinical trial may be one of their last options for beneficial treatment for a disease."
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Communication
17. How would you explain what a placebo is and why it is used if a trial participant asks you to explain it?
What You Need to Know
The interviewer will use this question to test your professional knowledge and communication skills. In this setting, a patient is commonly apprehensive and might seek to calm themselves by asking a lot of questions. Explain how you would communicate this point to your participants.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I would explain to the participant that a placebo is an inactive pill, liquid, or powder with no treatment value. I will further explain that in a placebo-controlled trial, some portion of the participants will receive a placebo instead of an active drug or experimental treatment to assess the experimental treatment's effectiveness and safety versus no treatment at all."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I will tell the participant that a placebo is a liquid, powder, or pill that has no treatment value used in clinical trials to help determine the difference between the active drug or experiment compared to no treatment at all."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
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Education
18. IQVIA is supportive of our employee's continuing education efforts. Do you plan to go back to school?
What You Need to Know
This is simply one of those 'get to know you' questions. While IQVIA may support an employee who chooses to continue their education, this is not a requirement. Share your thoughts on how you intend to pursue your goals and further your career.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I am very supportive of people who want to continue their education. I feel like I have come to a place in my career where I am happy with where I am. Notwithstanding, if IQVIA has courses or certifications that are encouraged for employees to take, I would be willing. I just don't see myself returning to school for three or four years."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I have entertained the idea of continuing my education. However, circumstances have not ended with me in school. I love research and am very happy with my career at this point."
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Experience
19. Do you understand what 'expanded access' means?
What You Need to Know
Expanded access is the term used to describe how manufacturers make new drugs that are being reviewed and available under certain circumstances to treat a patient(s) with a serious disease or condition who cannot participate in a controlled clinical trial. If you have experience working with patients who have been given expanded access, share this. If you don't have personal experience, share your knowledge.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"It is my understanding that 'expanded access' is granted, under certain circumstances, to patients who do not qualify to participate in a clinical trial of a regulatory drug. The drug used in expanded access cannot expose patients to unreasonable risks given the severity of the disease, and the patient must not have any other satisfactory therapeutic options."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I have some knowledge about 'expanded access,' although I have not worked directly with patients who have been granted expanded access. The manufacturer must be willing to make the drug available for expanded access use. The primary intent of expanded access is to provide treatment for a patient's disease or condition, rather than to collect data about the study drug."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
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Experience
20. Are you familiar with the difference between diagnostic trials and screening trials?
What You Need to Know
Elaborate on these differences. If you are not sure, it's ok to say so and ask the interviewer to differentiate for you. However, you should research the position to prepare yourself before the interview to come across as knowledgeable and as experienced as possible. There are a variety of working trials in research. Because there is such a variety of trials, there is often an opportunity to work on more than one. Many researchers prefer working on more than one trial at a time, giving them the option to learn more.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Diagnostic trials are conducted to find better tests or procedures for diagnosing a particular disease or condition. Screening trials test the best way to detect certain diseases or health conditions."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"Although I am rather new to the research industry, based on the names of the two trials you mentioned, I think diagnostic trials look for better ways to diagnose illness, while screening trials aim to diagnose disease."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
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Experience
21. Do you know what pharmacokinetic studies are?
What You Need to Know
Before your interview, brush up on all your on-the-job experiences, recent or not, and any indirect skills or knowledge that goes with the job, whether you performed those duties or not. Be able to identify different areas of study within clinical research when asked. When an interviewer asks a question like, 'do you know' or 'are you familiar with,' share the knowledge you have without embellishment. If you have little hands-on training, let them know this falls outside your scope but that you fully understand this aspect of your field.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Yes, I am familiar with pharmacokinetic studies. We always called them 'clinical pharmacology studies.' These trials are used to test the administration methods for a drug/treatment, its frequency, and safety."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I do know about pharmacokinetic studies. They are sometimes referred to as clinical pharmacology studies. They usually involve between 20-80 healthy participants and are designed to test methods of administering the treatment (by mouth, injection, etc.) and how often, as well as the safety of the treatment."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
Experience
22. Have you ever participated in efforts to secure funding for clinical research?
What You Need to Know
Clinical trials can be sponsored or funded by government and non-government organizations, philanthropies, and individuals. So the interviewer is asking if you have any experience or training in grant writing or other fundraising experience. If so, this could be a benefit to their teams. Share any knowledge or experience you have.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I have some experience, but not a lot, in grant-writing. I worked with someone previously who did some grant-writing for a long-term care facility. I tried to learn as much as I could from her and would love the opportunity to learn more."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"Unfortunately, I've never had an opportunity to work in the finance side of trials. I understand that funding comes from various places, and I am not opposed to learning about ways to secure funding and offer assistance in any way I can."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
Experience
23. Do you understand what a 'double-blind' trial is?
What You Need to Know
This question tests your experience level in your field. It also evaluates your communication skills, giving the interviewer insights into how well you would effectively communicate the meaning of a 'double-blind' trial to a subject or participant.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"A 'double-blind' trial is a clinical trial in which neither patients nor the study staff knows which participants are receiving the experimental drug and which are receiving a placebo or standard treatment."
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I do understand 'double-blind' trials. In this type of trial, like a controlled trial, one group of participants receives the experimental drug or treatment while another group receives a placebo or standard treatment. The difference is, in a 'double-blind,' neither the staff working the trial nor the participants are aware which group is receiving which treatment."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
Experience
24. What is a 'controlled' clinical trial?
What You Need to Know
There are different clinical trials. When working in a research company that conducts trials, it is important to be fully versed in all aspects of your profession and be able to distinguish the differences. Share your knowledge with the interviewer.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"In a controlled trial, one group of patients will be given an experimental drug or treatment, while a second group is given either a standard treatment for the illness or a placebo. It helps us determine the differences in the patients' response to the trial drug compared to a standard treatment or no treatment."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"A controlled clinical trial occurs when one group of patients is given a placebo or a commonly used treatment, and another group is given the experimental treatment/drug. In this study, the workers conducting the trial are aware of which patients received the experimental drug and those who did not."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
Experience
25. Regarding salary, IQVIA tries to be fair to all employees. However, salary is often commensurate with experience. What are your thoughts regarding someone working the same job as you being paid a higher rate due to experience level?
What You Need to Know
The interviewer is not saying you will make less than someone with more experience. This question is designed to see how you respond and how badly you want this position. If an employee is willing to put in the work and earn the pay increase, employers often see that as someone worth investing in. Also, most employers offer higher salary incentives to recruit more seasoned employees. Advertise your merits as worth that investment. This is a good time to ask about the beginning salary and discuss negotiable options, such as benefits and paid time off.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I understand that years of experience are often rewarded with higher earnings. I feel, given the chance to demonstrate my knowledge and skills, you will find that I am capable of doing the job as well as some of the more experienced employees. However, I will not turn down an offer of employment because of a difference in pay based on my present lack of experience. With that in mind, what benefits are available for someone coming on board with your company with my resume?"
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"While I do not doubt that my education and skills are comparable to those of employees at IQVIA in the same position, I understand and appreciate that IQVIA likes to acknowledge and reward employees for their years of experience. With that in mind, I am willing to accept a position at a lower beginning rate and prove myself worthy of a higher rate later."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
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Experience
26. Do you understand what a 'control' or 'control group' is?
What You Need to Know
A control is the standard by which experimental observations are evaluated. In many clinical trials, one group of patients will be given an experimental drug or treatment, while the control group is given either a standard treatment or a placebo. Share the scope of your working experience and knowledge.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Yes, I understand the importance of a 'control/control group' in trials. I assisted with documentation for a clinical trial when I worked at XYZ. Part of my responsibilities included monitoring the differences in vital signs of the patients who were given a placebo rather than the trial drug."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I am familiar with the concept of a control/control group. It is my understanding that when a clinical trial is conducted, some participants are given the trial drug, while the 'control group' is given either the standard treatment or a placebo, but only the person administering the drug knows who is receiving which."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
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Stephanie's Feedback
Experience
27. IQVIA likes to encourage a healthy work/life balance. How do you maintain a healthy balance between work and your personal life?
What You Need to Know
Psychologists today say that a healthy balance in life allows a person to recharge and refocus, which can result in better productivity at work. No matter what profession a person chooses, everyone needs some time to unwind and relax. The interviewer wants to know what you do for yourself. Maybe you have a favorite pastime or hobby. This is yet another way for the interviewer to get to know you as a person.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"One of my favorite pastimes is writing. After a busy day at work, I like to journal or write articles for a blog that I author. Both of these forms of writing allow me to release feelings of frustration I may experience, especially after a stressful day or a difficult situation at work. The writings in my journal are private and my way of 'letting it all out.' The blog articles, on the other hand, are my way of using creative writing to share stories with my followers."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I enjoy working out at the gym and take a kickboxing class twice weekly. After a good workout or class, I always feel like I can rest better and wake up energized and ready for the next day."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
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Chad's Feedback
Experience
28. CROs work with multiple clients nationally and internationally, juggling time zones while adhering to tight deadlines. How do you manage your time efficiently?
What You Need to Know
Because CROs are contracted to work for other companies, details such as time zone differences can often play a role in scheduling. The interviewer wants to know that you can juggle multiple tasks within an allotted time frame. Share some ways you keep yourself organized during a work day and your approach to time management.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I have worked with clients internationally and understand the importance of accurate scheduling. Before beginning a new project, I like to verify the differences in time zones, what specific duties I will be expected to carry out, and the deadline for each. I then create a schedule on my computer with daily reminders that I check each morning to make sure I am on schedule."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I like to stay on track with projects. I am a visual learner, and because of that, I make a schedule on paper and keep it in a place that is visible (desktop/bulletin board, etc.). As I complete each task, I mark it off and move to the next."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
Experience
29. Are you familiar with what a protocol is regarding clinical research?
What You Need to Know
Understanding the common terminology used in research is integral to the job. This may seem like a simple interview question, but the interviewer aims to glimpse the range of your experience. This question also tests your communication skills. Showcase your knowledge clearly and concisely as you provide your definition of 'protocol' to the interviewer.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"A protocol is the plan on which the clinical trial is based. It describes the details regarding what people may participate in the trial, as well as tests, medications, and length of the study."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I am familiar with the term 'protocol.' In clinical trials, it is the guide or plan that describes how a trial is carried out. It lists what types of patients may participate, what tests or procedures need to be done, and the medications and dosages that need to be monitored."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
Experience
30. What are some risks associated with being a participant in a clinical trial?
What You Need to Know
People specializing in research must understand the risks of participating in a clinical trial. Share your knowledge with the interviewer. Explain some of those risks applicable to your job description.
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"One of the main risks many participants and the healthcare team are concerned with is potential known and unknown side-effects."
Written by Kevin Downey on June 13th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"One of the frustrating things about clinical trial risk is that participants may not know that they are receiving a placebo and, as a result, will not have the outcome they had hoped for."