How do you stay informed on new innovations and changes in your field?
This question is often used to determine how serious or passionate you are about your career. They want to know if you can talk the talk and walk the walk. They want to know if you pursued this career or just fell into it. It will also offer you an opportunity to show off your knowledge of your industry and how up-to-date you are.
"First and foremost, I love the fact that this career has put me in a position to always be learning, evolving, and growing. Over the past five years since graduating from my program and entering the workforce, I have found that networking with other industry professionals has been the greatest thing in learning industry changes ahead of the curve. I have built a great network by attending annual industry conferences and quarterly regional meetings. I also subscribe to the Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and love the fact that I have access to a great database of information through their website."
"I have set up some industry related google alerts because I find these to be the best opportunity to stay on top of new information in my work. 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!"
You want to exhibit a growth mindset at all times. The pharmaceutical and biotech industry is rapidly changing and innovating. If you take advantage of learning through continuing education credits, seminars, conferences, journals, and any other means of staying educated in your line of work, let them know.
Read up and revisit so they're fresh in your mind prior to the interview. This could branch off into excellent conversation points. Establishing a rapport with your interviewer translates to a likelihood of doing the same with the members of their team and is always a good selling point.
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
I have an online subscription in Medical Futurist, and I also follow leading pharma/biotech companies on LinkedIn. I also read articles in scientific journals and medical blogs.
Rachelle's Feedback
It sounds like you lean on some reputable resources for your information, which is excellent! If possible, give some specifics on the scientific journals and medical blogs that you read.
Anonymous Answer
I subscribe to multiple resources to stay informed and am well networked within the industry.
Rachelle's Feedback
This is a good start! Try adding some specifics re: the resources you use and how you ensure that you are well networked.
Anonymous Answer
I stay informed on new changes in my field by attending any educational meeting or gathering I can. I also stay up-to-date on news articles and any emails or further opportunities to learn what my company provides. I am always looking into new things when I hear others’ talking about them. I will go home at night and search for them Because I find any new development quite fascinating.
Amanda's Feedback
Your answer makes it clear that you do try to stay informed and have a natural interest in the innovations happening in your field. You can enhance this answer by naming academic journals you subscribe to or educational conferences you attend. You can also share something specific you learned recently that was especially interesting or impactful. This shows the interviewer that you truly engage with these sources to challenge your perspective and keep growing.
Unlock all 44 Johnson and Johnson questions
Unlock expert answers for J&J's values-based and technical healthcare interviews.
Get Started