Merck Internship Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Merck interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Behavioral
1. How well do you collaborate with others?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
While some of your job duties as a Merck Intern will be working independently, there are times when you will be collaborating with your mentor and other members of the team. The interviewer wants to hear that you are a team player and can work well with diverse groups.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
If you have prior work experience, describe how well you have collaborated with others at work in the past. If you are new to the workforce, use an experience from a sports team, volunteer experience, or school to describe how you work well with others.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"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."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Behavioral
2. How do you handle a dispute with a coworker or supervisor?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It is not uncommon for coworkers or supervisors to have a dispute or disagreement with someone they work with. The interviewer knows this and wants to see how you have handled disputes in the past. How you respond gives the interviewer insight into your problem-solving, communication, and conflict resolution skills, which are essential skills to possess as an intern.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on giving a detailed explanation of how you handled a past disagreement with a supervisor or coworker. You do not necessarily need to describe the reason for the dispute, just how you dealt with it. The interviewer wants to hear that you dealt with the conflict privately, calmly, and professionally and that there was a resolution.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"Luckily, I have had good coworkers and supervisors in the past with minimal conflict. If there is an issue with a colleague, I like to nip it in the bud. I ask them to speak in private, address the issue, and come up with a resolution that makes us both happy."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Behavioral
3. How would you describe your communication skills?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see that you have the solid oral and written communication skills required for Merck 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.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
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.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have exceptional communication skills and feel this skill is one of my greatest strengths. I took a communications course 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."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Discovery
4. Why did you leave your last job?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to know why you left your last job to see if you were fired, gave notice, or were laid off. If you were fired, they want to know if you will admit why you were fired, if you take responsibility, and what you learned from the experience. If you gave notice, they want to understand what you did not like about your job to see if you would fit in with their company culture.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on being direct and honest and explain why you left your last place of employment. If you gave notice, were laid off, or fired, describe the circumstances behind your leaving. Be sure to end your response on a positive note and tell the interviewer how you are excited to have the opportunity to interview for the intern position with their company.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"I left my last job to go to school full-time. I wanted to work part-time, but my supervisor did not have any part-time openings. I gave my two weeks' notice and left on good terms."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Discovery
5. This concludes our interview. Do you have any questions for me?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
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.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
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.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I do have a question. Thank you for asking. After everything we have gone over in this interview, do you have any hesitancy in offering me the position?"
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Discovery
6. What are your professional goals for the next five years?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question for two reasons. They want to see if you have professional goals and a plan to achieve them. When you set goals to improve and grow professionally, it shows that you are motivated and dedicated to your profession. The interviewer also wants to see if your goals include working for the company. Merck invests a lot of money and time to hire and train interns, and the interviewer wants to see if your plans include being a long-term employee if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing what professional goals you have planned for the next five years and how you will achieve them. Since you are still a student, your plans might be to be hired for the internship, graduate, and find a full-time job in your given profession. If your plans include higher education, highlight that in your response.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"Since I am new to this field, my professional goals in the next five years are to get hired by your company and gain experience. I appreciate that your company offers on-the-job training, which is one reason I applied to your reputable organization. After my internship, I will complete my last year of college and would like to work for your company as a Marketing Manager. I am also interested in receiving my master's degree and am looking into online universities."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Discovery
7. Who was the founder of Merck?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
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 founder of Merck.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Show the interviewer you have done in-depth research on their company. Focus your answer on naming the founder of Merck and a little history about them. You can mention when they founded the company, why it was founded, and their mission for the company.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"George Merck was the founder of Merck. On January 1, 1891, the company was founded to distribute fine chemicals throughout New York City and the neighboring areas."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Discovery
8. What is your greatest weakness, and what are you doing to improve?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear about your greatest weakness as an employee or student to see that you are self-aware and can identify an area that needs improvement. When you admit you have a deficiency in a particular aspect of your profession and take steps to improve, it shows the interviewer that you are motivated and inspired to grow professionally.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
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 listening skills. In that case, the interviewer may pass you over for another candidate since that skill is an essential part of being an excellent Merck Intern.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"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 mentor 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."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Discovery
9. How do you expect to make a difference at Merck?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear that you are looking forward to working at Merck and have thought about how you can make a positive impact while working there. Think about what kind of impact you could make. Possible things that come to mind are:
- Creating a favorable environment for coworkers by smiling, asking them how their day is going, and providing them with assistance on a project if needed
- Building business relationships with your coworkers so everyone looks forward to coming to work each day
- By being energetic and innovative
Whatever comes to mind that you are passionate about, please share it with the interviewer!
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing unique qualities and traits you will bring to Merck if hired. You can tell the interviewer about your excellent customer service skills, positive attitude, and willingness to help customers and coworkers alike. Let the interviewer know how you can benefit their company if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"I expect to make a difference at Merck by bringing my creativity and innovation skills to your company and providing the work ethic you expect from your team members. I always come to work with a smile and a positive attitude, which always rubs off on those around me."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Discovery
10. Describe a time when you disliked company rules in your last job.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Start by telling the interviewer that you follow all the company rules and support the company's leadership decisions regarding regulations. The interviewer wants to hear that you are not a rule-breaker and you support the rules the company has put into place. After all, there had to be some logic to their professional decision! Your willingness to remain a team player shows the interviewer that you respect decisions even when you recognize you would make different choices sometimes.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing a rule you disagreed with while explaining you understand the reason that rule was put into place. When you show the interviewer you are a reasonable person and will follow the rules even when you disagree with them, they will understand that you are an agreeable person to work with.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"We recently implemented split shifts at my current job, which I do not always agree with because they defer from a good work/life balance. With that said, I understand that split shifts cut labor costs and the need to hire additional staff."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Discovery
11. Can you work independently, or do you prefer to be closely supervised?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
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 mentors, Merck wants interns who can conduct independent research, examine the data, and make decisions. The interviewer asks this question to see that you can work independently and not need to be closely supervised if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
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.
If you want to be considered for the position, avoid saying that you require close supervision. The interviewer wants an intern who is comfortable working alone but knows when to ask a mentor for assistance with a project.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"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."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Discovery
12. How well do you work under pressure?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a Merck Intern, you must work well under pressure. You will be responsible for creating new products, 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 the task at hand.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on giving an example of working under pressure related to your role as a student or employee. You might have had a project in danger of missing a deadline because of unforeseen circumstances, or you may have had to cram for a big test.
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 a Merck Intern.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"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. I find that 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."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Discovery
13. After reading the job description, what do you like most about this position?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see that you have read the job description in its entirety and to determine what aspect of the role you like the most. Most intern job postings have many job duties you will be asked to perform. The interviewer wants to know what you like the most to see where your strengths lie and how you will benefit Merck if hired.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
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 inventing new products or meeting with regional managers. Tell the interviewer why this particular job duty excites you.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"There are many aspects of the job description that are appealing. What I like most about this position is that I will be using my creativity to invent new products for Merck that could potentially go to market."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Discovery
14. Why are you interested in an internship with Merck?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see why you chose Merck over other pharmaceutical companies for an internship. They want to hear that you have done your homework and thoroughly researched their company before applying for the position.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
After reviewing the company website, choose a few reasons Merck is the company you chose to apply for an internship with. Focus on telling the interviewer how Merck stands out from other companies and how you are excited for the opportunity to work for them.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am interested in an internship with your company because of your values and mission to save and improve lives around the world. My values align with yours, and I want to work for a company I believe in. I also have respect for people, ethics and integrity, and operate responsibly every day."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Discovery
15. What is your greatest strength?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear about your greatest strength as a student or employee to determine if you have the qualities they are looking for. Review the job description before your interview and look for keywords Merck used to describe its ideal candidate. Then, choose one of those keywords that you have identified as your greatest strength, showing the interviewer that you have the characteristics they are looking for.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Suppose the job description says Merck seeks an energetic student with strong communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills to work in an intern position. In that case, describe your greatest strength as either your energy or your communication, interpersonal, or leadership skills. Focus on using a keyword in the job description so the interviewer can see that you have one of the qualities they are looking for in their ideal candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"My greatest strength is my leadership skills. I developed these skills in high school as the class president and team captain of my volleyball team. I have further developed these skills in college as the debate team captain. I was elected to these positions for my ability to lead a group of people to accomplish and achieve the same goals. I enjoy leading others by example, and I look forward to bringing these skills to your company if I am chosen for the internship."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Discovery
16. How did you hear about this position?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Companies invest a lot of money advertising their job openings. The interviewer wants to hear what methods are effective and which are not. They also want to hear if an employee of their organization 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.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
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 Merck posted the job, the company website, or an employee referral.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"I heard about this position from your website. I set up alerts when an intern position opened up, and I received an alert the day the job was posted."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Discovery
17. What do you like to do in your free time?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
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 put upon you.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
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 your coworkers based on your interests.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"In my free time, I enjoy activities that keep me in shape. My favorite activities are riding mountain bikes, trail running, and kayaking. When the weather is bad, and I cannot do those activities, I enjoy listening to music, cooking, and reading true-crime novels."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Discovery
18. What are Merck's core values?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to ensure you have researched their company and understand their core values. Merck has four core values listed on its website. Their values are patients first, respect for people, ethics and integrity, and innovation and scientific excellence. Merck writes that their values represent the very core of their character, and they guide every decision and action they take.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on memorizing Merck's core values. After listing their core values in your response, explain how your values align with theirs.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"Merck's core values are patients first, respect for people, ethics and integrity, and innovation and scientific excellence. Your values drew me to your company, as I have the same values. I want to work for an ethical company with integrity that puts its patients first."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Discovery
19. 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?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Merck needs 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.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
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.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"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."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Discovery
20. When was Merck founded?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see if you have done your research on Merck before your interview. You should be prepared to answer any questions the interviewer will have, such as the company's mission statement, its core values, the population they serve, the CEO of the company, and the year they were founded. It is always recommended to do your homework before any interview and learn all about the company.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Merck was founded on January 1, 1891, and has been in business for over 130 years. Show the interviewer you have done your research on their company. Focus on reviewing the company website and clicking on the "Our History" link to learn more about the founder and why he created Merck.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"Merck was founded on January 1, 1891, by George Merck. Mr. Merck created the company to distribute fine chemicals throughout New York City and the neighboring areas."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Discovery
21. How would your references describe you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
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.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
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.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"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."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Discovery
22. What makes you the best candidate for this position?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to hear what qualities you will bring to the company 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.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Review the job announcement before your interview and highlight the keywords of the qualities, experience, and education Merck 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.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am the best candidate for the position because I meet and exceed your job qualifications. I am empathetic, compassionate, level-headed, and work well under pressure. I have over three years of experience working with diverse groups and cultures. I have exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, and I look forward to bringing my skills and experience to your wonderful company."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Discovery
23. Why are you pursuing a career in the pharmaceutical industry?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear your reasons for choosing this profession to understand what motivates you in your career. They want to hear if someone in the industry mentored you, have family or friends who work in the pharmaceutical field, or if you worked in another industry and decided to change careers.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
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 pursue a career in your chosen field to determine if you will be a good fit for Merck.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"I made the decision to pursue a career in the pharmaceutical industry after meeting with a guidance counselor in high school. I knew I wanted to become a scientist and help people, but I did not know what jobs were available. My counselor had me take an aptitude test to narrow down what would be best for me based on my interests. The results came back that a career in human and animal development and research would be a good fit, so the pharmaceutical industry seemed like the natural route to take."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Educational
24. Tell me about your education.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to determine if you have the education required for a Merck Internship. Intern positions require that you are a student pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree in the field you are applying for and have completed at least two years of coursework.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing your education as it relates to the position. You most likely have the necessary education required, or you would not be invited to an interview. Assure the interviewer you have the qualifications needed for the position. Describe what degree you are pursuing, the university you attend, and when you will obtain your degree.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am a junior at the University of Florida and am pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Finance. I have a 4.2-grade point average, and I will graduate next year. After graduation, my goal is to work as a Portfolio Manager for your company."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Educational
25. Do you speak any foreign languages fluently?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to determine if you have additional skills to benefit their company if hired. Merck has many customers and clients who speak foreign languages, and they want to see if you speak any fluently to serve their customers better. While speaking a foreign language is not a requirement to work for Merck, you bring added value if you speak a foreign language fluently.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing any foreign languages you speak fluently. If you are not fluent in any other language, tell the interviewer of any classes you have taken and how you would rate your skills. For example, if you had two years of Spanish in high school and can speak a little conversational Spanish, explain that in your response.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am fluent in American Sign Language as my mother is deaf. I also speak conversational Spanish, but I would not consider myself fluent. I took two years of Spanish in high school and have traveled extensively to Latin countries. I have always been able to understand the language and make myself understood, but I am interested in improving my skills."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Educational
26. What degree are you working towards?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see if the degree you are working towards falls into one of their categories. Merck offers students the opportunity to work on meaningful assignments and gain real-world experiences in the following fields:
- Human and Animal Research and Development
- Communications
- Supply Chain
- Engineering and Manufacturing
- Finance
- Marketing
- Information Technology
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Describe what degree you are pursuing, what university you attend, and how long until you obtain your degree. Focus on explaining why you are pursuing this industry and how an internship at Merck will help you gain skills and experience in your field.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am currently a senior at Ball State University working towards my Bachelor's Degree in Supply Chain Management. I have six months until I graduate, and I hope to be hired as an intern to learn more about the logistics side of your company and gain valuable experience in the biopharmaceutical industry."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Leadership
27. Do you demonstrate leadership qualities even when you are not in a leadership role?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
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 intern.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
You can be a motivator and a confident communicator in any situation at work or school! 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. Or, you might have tutored a classmate who was having difficulty in a particular subject. Focus on providing an example that shows you act as a leader even when not in a leadership role.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"I feel I'm always leading by example, with or without managerial authority. I always try to come in a bit early and stay a bit late, pitching in and going the extra mile whenever possible. I feel this makes you just a good teammate and human, setting you up for a strong career trajectory. That way, when the opportunity for a true leadership role presents itself, I have positioned myself to be top of mind for the position."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Leadership
28. Do you see yourself as a leader? When have you led a team?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
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. Merck prides itself on developing future leaders, and the interviewer wants to see if you have leadership qualities.
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 and mentor.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
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 organization when challenges arise.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"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."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Scenario
29. What would you do if a coworker asked you to help steal?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer would like to know how you would react if put in an awkward or potentially harmful situation like being asked by a coworker to steal with them. Theft can occur in many ways in the workplace and is not necessarily reserved to blatantly taking a product. Ensure that you are aware of the different ways a coworker may try to pass stealing off as "no big deal." Some examples include:
- Timecard fabrication, also known as "buddy punching," where you punch in for a coworker who is not present
- Falsifying vendor or expense accounts
- Taking items from the lost and found
- Stealing data or documents containing trade secrets
- Taking expensive office supplies like ink or adding personal items to supply orders
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Of course, you already know how to answer this question! Express that you would never engage in this type of behavior and discuss how you would go about reporting this type of situation. If this has happened to you in the past, you can talk about the case without providing the coworker's name.
Focus on letting the interviewer know that you are an honest person with morals and ethics. Make sure they understand that you would never condone or participate in this type of behavior and would report it to your supervisor or mentor.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"If a coworker asked me to help them steal anything from the company, I would tell them no and immediately report them to my supervisor or mentor. I cannot tolerate people who think it is okay to steal from others."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Scenario
30. What do you do when you are given an assignment and you are unfamiliar with how to complete the task?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
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.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
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.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022
Answer Example
"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."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 12th, 2022