Knowing that both CROs and pharmaceutical companies conduct research and trials, what do you think would be an advantage working with a CRO rather than seeking employment with a large pharmaceutical company?
Like choosing research as a career path, it is also an individual choice whether to seek employment with a CRO rather than a pharmaceutical company. This is another question that the interviewer will use to get to know you. It is important to know that 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.
"I feel because CROs work with several pharmaceutical clients, there is more job stability. If one project is dropped unexpectedly, a CRO can place an employee on a new project with a different sponsor."
"CROs are, to a certain extent, better shielded from the effects of economic decline than pharmaceutical companies. If one of their clients is forced to go under, they still have other companies to work with."
There is no right or wrong answer to this question. The interviewer merely wants to know your personal reason for working for a CRO vs. a pharmaceutical company. Focus on describing why you think working for a CRO is advantageous.
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 believe the opportunity CROs give to individuals with respect to job security makes it a good workspace or field. Besides you get to learn a lot about the pharmaceutical industry and how they work.
Marcie's Feedback
These are all great benefits of working for a CRO. Good job! Another advantage you could choose to talk about is that CROs are typically faster-paced than bigger pharmaceutical companies. They offer a large variety of projects and clients. You may also get the opportunity to wear different hats at a CRO whereas at a larger organization you might be more apt to be pigeon-holed into a narrow role.
Anonymous Answer
I believe the opportunity CROs give to individuals with respect to job security makes it a good workspace or field. Besides you get to learn a lot about the pharmaceutical industry and how they work.
Marcie's Feedback
These are all great benefits of working for a CRO. Good job! Another advantage you could choose to talk about is that CROs are typically faster-paced than bigger pharmaceutical companies. They offer a large variety of projects and clients. You may also get the opportunity to wear different hats at a CRO whereas at a larger organization you might be more apt to be pigeon-holed into a narrow role.
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