What industry-related changes do you foresee in the next 12 months?
It takes a concerted effort to make an informed hiring decision. This series of questions (4, 5, 9, & 10) test your industry knowledge, and your level of passion for learning more about your field. It will inform them if you take your work home with you, or watch the clock and leave it at the office.
Any company bringing on a new employee wants to know how one will fit into the culture of their brand. They want to know if you embody all the elements through like-mindedness. They want to know why you want to join them.
"I read on your website that Pfizer is expected to see a 43% increase in the sales of product ABC. This piqued my interest, as I have seen reports that forecast a strong increase in using product ABC for alternative medical therapies. There are continual changes in this industry, but I see this one being very significant in the upcoming months."
"I was reading an article by Q1 Productions that addressed this exact topic. They mentioned in the article that 2018 is going to be a significant year for the pharma industry because of the economic upturn. This will increase stock prices; thus, allowing pharma companies to grow their offerings, expand operations, and further their research and reach. It's an exciting thought!"
Assure the interviewer that you have a keen and honest interest in this industry by discussing the growth and change you foresee within the next year. If the organization itself has any upcoming news or changes, be sure to mention these. This may be an opportunity to connect with your interviewer. Discuss what you've read about. Exhibit your enthusiasm relevant to advances in your field. This way you are exhibiting your knowledge and creating a personal connection.
"It depends. I think there's a lot of potential for it to go far, if not for our current political atmosphere..."
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 am not very familiar with this industry, and I am not able to answer this question honestly.
Rachelle's Feedback
If this question does not apply to you, or your job title, that's okay! I do, however, encourage you to do some research on the Pfizer news or recent releases. This homework would give you a clearer perspective on where Pfizer is going over the next 12 months.
Anonymous Answer
I strongly believe that after the creation of the vaccine for coronavirus, there is more opportunity to create another vaccine for HIV that is also a RNA virus. Surely HIV has a very different structure, but the innovative vaccine used for coronavirus will be the weapon against many viruses.
Rachelle's Feedback
Yes - I like this answer a lot! It's evident that you have done industry research. You mention a topic that is unique and currently relevant to Pfizer. Excellent approach!
Anonymous Answer
I expect there to be more research on vaccines In the next 12 months and the upcoming decade. Now that we have a successful delivery mechanism for mRNA, I imagine other vaccines will soon follow. Also, there is an abundance of funding for vaccine research due to COVID.
Marcie's Feedback
Nice! Your response shows that you are knowledgeable in this area. Now talk about your opinions about this. Are you excited about the potential for additional mRNA vaccines? What are some diseases that might be eliminated or lessened due to these new vaccines? Give as many details as possible.
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