How have you handled working under someone you felt was not good at communicating?

"I recognize not everyone is a natural at communicating. When situations like this occur, I find it initially requires more work. After a bit of mirroring, making sure there are no missing pieces, a person can understand a poor communicator better. Once we establish a rapport, the poor communication improves. People just want to be understood. If a person feels misunderstood all the time, they might grow less communicative to defend themselves. These things just require patience and understanding."

Communication is integral to any position. This is a test of your communication skills. They will evaluate your communication style with this question, as well as how you deal with authority.

Exemplify your ability for non-defensive communication, and how you helped enhance clear communication in this scenario. Talk about how you would find opportunities to clarify when communication was unclear. Provide specific examples of situations where you had to ask questions, mirror what was being communicated to you, and how a consensus was reached.

Don't give examples where you went outside of the change of command, complained about the poor communicator you worked under, or quit because of this person. By discussing these points, you'll only make yourself seem like part of the problem the team faced, rather than part of the solution.

"There was a supervisor we had. They'd said one thing and later would say they said something else. There were a lot of complaints. People felt gaslighted. I didn't believe this supervisor had bad intentions. I figured they were just having trouble articulating their thoughts. So I told them about the attention they were drawing. They then confided in me they were dyslexic. It also turned out the medication they were on amplified their dyslexia, and they'd often say the opposite of what they meant. Left instead of right, that sort of thing. They stopped taking the medication, worked on their communication, and the problem resolved itself."

What are your strengths?

"I think my strengths are in my perceptiveness and ability to observe the needs of others. These strengths are part of what makes me an excellent performer in a client-facing role."

This tests not only how you perceive yourself, but your confidence in your abilities. Gaining insight on this will help them find out your value as an asset to the team.

Describe the personal advantages you have that make you excellent at your job. Strengths can be skills or qualities that help you overcome difficult circumstances or accomplish challenging tasks. In a work context, your strengths will help you complete your to-do list, understand client needs, and help you apply what you've learned in your training. Talk to the interviewer about a couple of your strengths and why those will help you to be successful in this role. Some great strengths to mention are: - Communicative - Loyal - Collaborative - Tech Savvy - Flexible in Schedule/Availability - Persistent and Determined - Eager for Knowledge/New Skills

Don't describe how others perceive you or what others have said about you. They asked you, not your coworkers, family, and friends.

"I am not sure what others would pick, but I feel my strengths are my dedication, determination, and ability to build long-lasting and trusting professional relationships."

"I am a very flexible and reliable person. I am always keen to learn new skills, and I always trying to be better than the last time."

Would you describe yourself as more analytical or interpersonal?

"Definitely analytical. I love examining a data set and interpreting it. I can really get lost in my work. Knowing I'm helping people makes it even more rewarding."

This question will offer insights into whether you are more of a team collaborator or an innovator. Both bring value. There is no wrong or right answer.

Be honest. Exude confidence. If you are one, the other, or both, offer storytelling examples where you've used this to your advantage and shined.

The most important thing to strive for is to exude a sense of self-awareness. Break down which one you are, then delve into how others perceive you in this regard, and to what degree their perception of you rings true, and why.

"I'd say interpersonal. I thrive on my interactions with my team and our clients, who I kind of consider being part of our team. There's a camaraderie that comes with it. It makes you feel you're part of something bigger."

Are you able to relocate if required?

"I'd be open to it! I browsed through all the locations Pfizer has globally and would follow this opportunity wherever it leads."

This will help assess how committed you would be to the company, given the opportunity, and how ambitious will you prove to be with your career at Pfizer. It will offer insight into your other life priorities, your flexibility, and how far you are willing to go to get the job.

If your answer is yes or a maybe, describe what it would take to do so, whether it is uprooting your family, or the costs of moving and the costs of living, but for the right opportunity, your answer is yes. If your answer is no, based on personal preference with no hard reasons why you would not be able to move, you can respond by being open to discussions on the matter should the opportunity present itself. If the answer is no and you have a hard, tangible reason as to why you're unable, such as taking care of an ill relative or a similar personal life obligation, be honest. Depending on the reasons the interviewer asks, it may not affect your chances of getting hired, or maybe it will. Either way will determine a good fit for you and the potential employer.

Don't ask if relocation is a prerequisite for employment. Don't express any negative associations with having to move.

"I'd like to cross the bridge when we come to it. My spouse and I bought a house to be closer to my in-laws. So it would take some work convincing them. But if it proved to be a great opportunity for my career, I would strongly consider it."

Who would you say inspires you?

"I find inspiration in a variety of people and things. I would have to say that the person who has most inspired me has been my grandmother. She always had a smile on her face no matter how hard she worked, and she loved everyone. She was well respected and always gave more than she received. I try to live like she did, as much as I can."

This will offer a glimpse into your personality, philosophy, and approach to life and your work. They'll examine the examples you offer.

Your life's inspiration can come from a book, a mentor, your family, a celebrity, an author - anyone! Talk to the interviewer about who has inspired your life and why. Be relatable and try to inspire conversation. How well you get along with your interviewer will also offer insights on how well you will get along with others on your team.

"My real hero is Debbie Harry. She symbolizes everything I want to be. No one can rock like her."If you offer inspirations that are not innovators nor related to your field, this might raise more questions than answers. Don't always expect them to ask you to clarify, nor expect them to understand why they are inspirations for you. Elaborate on what qualities they possess that you are admired, and how those qualities relate to your work style and profession.

"My previous manager was a huge inspiration to me. Her passion for this industry was motivating and put the fire in me to climb the ladder in my career."

"I find inspiration in a variety of people and things. I would have to say that the people like Steve Jobs or Michel Obama, or Giannis Antetokounmpo greatly inspired me. The first began from zero and made a technological colossus. The second began from nothing and became the First Lady of the United States. The third began again from nothing and now is a two-time NBA Most Valuable Player."

"I am impressed by Dan Brotsky. He is an American skydiver who's the only survivor of a plane crash that killed his whole team. Dan nearly lost his life and was told that he would never be able to sport again. Dan didn't stop following his dream (to became a world champion in skydiving), and after a few years, he was able to return to the sport. Dan built a new team and since then, he has won the title of World Champion a few times and has become a world record holder, as well."

"My grandfather always inspired me, and his memory continues to. He would take me to work when I was a child, and I would play with his "toys." My favorite was a plastic brain that would come apart to demonstrate anatomy."

List three qualities that make you the best candidate for Pfizer.

"I understand this role requires standout skills in organization, leadership, and an energetic demeanor. I would say that these are three of my top skills, and I have many others! My references would attest to these skills as well."

By asking you this question, the interviewer has given you the opportunity to lead the interview for a moment. They may consider their granting you this opportunity to lead as a test.

This is an excellent opportunity to present yourself as an innovator and a leader. Proceed graciously and with etiquette. Look for relevant examples of what you bring to the table that make you stand apart. Provide quantifiable examples of your previous successes. Of those examples, offer previous resources you can continue to tap into. Offer them your core values, and how those align with theirs.

After researching Pfizer, you should have a firm idea of the qualities they admire most in their candidates. Discuss the attributes that will help you stand out as a top candidate. Incorporate their keywords into your response. This is a great opportunity to talk yourself up and sell them on how you stand apart.

Here are some qualities that make you a great candidate for any company: - A robust existing network in the industry - A great reputation - Leadership capabilities and experience - Integrity and likability - Strong-minded - Thirst for knowledge

"I understand that the role of Safety Manager requires stand-out skills in organization, and I feel I have many of them. Namely the top three of my skills are integrity, excellence, and my passion for continuous learning, and I have many others!"

"I am detail orientated, enthusiastic, able to work under pressure on my own, or as a part of the team."

When have you shown great integrity at work?

"In my last position, I handled the cash deposit daily. There was never a discrepancy in the four years that I worked there. I best show my integrity by being a reliable employee."

This will gauge your concept of integrity and how it aligns with theirs. They want to know if your moral high ground would complement or clash with their company's values.

Integrity comes from honesty and consistent moral values. Talk to the interviewer about the way(s) that you show your integrity in the workplace.

"There was a coworker who kept stealing other people's lunches from the break room fridge. I have a lot of integrity, and couldn't support this behavior, so I alerted HR."

"Always! Honesty and integrity are two values at the center of my being. I like to think I practice this in the workplace by always doing the right thing with the company, its customers, and its people."

"I believe that worker integrity and honesty are central to creating a positive and collaborative work environment. In one of my previous roles, I acted as supervisor in a retail store and was thus regularly responsible for depositing money and ensuring no discrepancies. I also acted as volunteer treasurer for a social organization in college and this involved closely managing the day-to-day accounting of the society. Integrity obviously extends past financial matters and there is one incident that comes to mind; a newer and younger co-worker who I was in charge of mentoring made a mistake and was concerned he would get into trouble and thus attempted to alter the events slightly in the incident report. I do not believe he was doing it maliciously but as his mentor, I counseled him on the importance of honesty even in admitting a mistake."

How do you define success?

"I define success by my ability to reach the goals that are set out for me. On a personal level, the things I wish to achieve in my life. On a work level, the targets that are set out for me as well as the professional development that I seek."

They want to know what success means to you. They are trying to determine whether you evaluate success as your own personal success, the success of your team, or something bigger, like developing a vaccine. All three should come into play in your answer.

Tell the interviewer how you evaluate success. Weave your answer into the success you plan to bring with you to your next role.

Stay away from canned responses, or literal definitions of the word. This will come across as trying to dodge the question or not taking it seriously.

"Success, to me, is achieved when I am pleased with the quality of my work and feel proud to submit it."

"Success is peace of mind, which is a direct result of self-satisfaction in knowing you made the effort to do your best to become the best that you are capable of becoming.""

Describe to me your ideal employer.

"My ideal employer is one that brings charisma and passion to their work. I work best with organizations who have a penchant for learning and promote their employees based on performance."

This will offer them insights into your understanding of the position you are interviewing for. A job search isn't just a one-sided hunt. You must convey that you feel this is a good fit for you.

Tell the interviewer what your ideal employer looks like. Be specific and be sure to keep the conversation positive. Avoid speaking poorly of any previous managers or organizations.

It's okay to draw off of the best parts of previous positions you've held. Highlighting work environments or situations that motivated you in the past and offering that to the interviewer will give them the attainable goal of how to motivate you, should they choose you for the position.

"I am looking to join an organization where my continued learning is encouraged. It's important to me, as I carve out my career, to learn new skills under an organization that wants me to grow with them."

"My ideal employer is one that encourages its employees to learn and progress with the company. My ideal employer would understand that happy and healthy employees are also productive employees."

What are your salary expectations?

"Currently, I earn a base salary of $45,000 per year plus a potential 20% annual bonus. Last year my earnings were $52,000, and I would like to stay in the same range or higher."

This question can come along anywhere in the interview, but more commonly comes towards the end. This not only gauges your expectations but your self-awareness of how the interview has gone. If you have delivered an outstanding interview and revealed yourself as a desired asset, your self-awareness of what you offer will now be revealed. This is where you'll show your hand, and how you not only value yourself but how realistic your expectations are. Your expectations may be unrealistic, or perhaps they sell you short. Either can be revealing with your career trajectory.

The best way to discuss your salary expectations is to use your current earnings as a model. Be open and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary-based questions arise.

If you can get away with it tactfully, avert giving a definitive answer right away. Discuss your previous salary, discuss what you bring to the table and how that equates to your real self-worth. Remain confident, but exude humility at the same time. This can keep the negotiation going, without selling yourself short or setting your expectations too high. Don't dodge the question, but don't close negotiations too early on either.

"I am currently making $100,000 per year with two bonus opportunities. I am looking for compensation that is aligned with the role and provides an opportunity for growth."

"I believe that salary should reflect the responsibilities of the role as well as skills and qualifications of the employee and as such expect fair compensation for a starting position such as this."

Are you applying for any other jobs?

"I am keeping an eye out for viable positions. Although I am not in the final stages of any other company, I am actively seeking a new position."

It always puts a little fire under the hiring manager if they know that you are shopping around. Tell the interviewer about your search so far.

Be honest, but always place emphasis on the value you see in the position you are interviewing for with them.

If your answer is yes, it's okay to tell them you have other interviews. This could show them you're in high demand while evaluating what you offer.

"Yes, I am active in my job search and am in the final stages with another company. Do you have a timeline in mind for a decision on this position?"

"Yes, I am actively looking for and applying for a job and am in the preliminary stages with several companies hiring processes."

How would you rate your performance in this interview so far?

"I believe that this interview has been quite informative and I am happy with my performance. Is there anything that I can clarify for you from this conversation?"

The interviewer has their perception, and you have yours. This will reveal how well aligned your realities are and offer insights into your sense of confidence and self-awareness.

This question can create feelings of stress and anxiety, so it's best to be prepared. Be honest with the interviewer on how you feel the interview has gone so far. If you feel that your performance in the interview is going well: "I believe that this interview has been quite informative and I am happy with my performance."

Don't ask them how they think you're doing.

"I am not sure if I have been able to portray myself 100% accurately in this interview; although, I am trying my best. If there is anything more that I can clarify for you, I would be happy to do so."

"I did my best, but possibly I didn't cover everything. If there is anything more that I can clarify for you, I would be happy to do so."

"This interview has been quite informative and I am happy with my performance. Is there anything that I can clarify for you?"

Describe to me the position you're applying for?

"Great question. I feel like the role of the manager for early clinical development clinician is a perfect fit for me. I've managed many research projects in Oncology. Frequently, one study daisy-chained into others, leading to the early developments of small molecular and novel biological therapies."

Every interviewer knows that finding a job (or a recruit) is a numbers game. This will help them distinguish you from the applicants who are going through the motions from one interview to another, hoping to land any job. They want to know how much work you've put into competing for this position, how it translates to your work experience, and what sets you apart.

Describe what attracted you to this position. Offer how it compares to your previous work experience, and how you think it stands apart.

After you've given a detailed answer, probe deeper and ask the interviewer how close you are to your understanding of the position. Detail every point you've learned about the position and probe deeper. Significant questions to follow up with are, "What does an average day on the job look like" and "what other unique qualities are you looking for."

"I'm excited to be here talking about the position of document control associate with you. I have an outstanding track record of managing and implementing document control systems, streamlining processes, and identifying areas requiring revision, and areas requiring review."

How would your previous employers describe you?

"I believe they tell you there is no one they could rely upon more. I'm a definitive team player. Professional, courteous, and thorough. I keep my head down, get buried in my work, but would drop everything in a minute if I was needed elsewhere."

This question reveals a lot through how you react. Many who've had this question posed to them wonder if they've already conversed with their previous employer. If this question makes a candidate nervous, this will raise the question of how honest a candidate has been about their qualifications and accomplishments. If the interviewee comes across as confident and provides a notable answer that is consistent with the rest of the interview, then that may offer the interviewer greater confidence in what the candidate claims to offer.

In most states, previous employers will disclose very little about your previous employment and work history, out of the concern of defamation lawsuits resulting from heresy. Therefore, it is likely they do not know how you will answer. There is no need to feel nervous about this question. Answer with confidence, and stay on course with what you have to offer and contribute to Pfizer should they choose you to move forward to the next stage of the interview.

Don't ask them if they talked to your previous employers, or what they might have said. Exude confidence.

"They'd say my work was always of the highest quality. I prioritized the safety of the team and our patients everywhere. They'd say I'm flexible, innovative, and customer-oriented. I'd like to believe they'd acknowledge my contributions as significant. That's my motto, I'm just trying to contribute to my field any way I can."

What challenges are you looking for in this position?

"I feel honored for the opportunities that were presented to me in my previous position. I feel like I made a difference, but there was little growth opportunity in the company, and I felt like I could do more. This position is the right fit for me. It gives me room to grow and make more of an impact in my field."

This gives the interviewer insights into your work ethic. It is important to narrow down the candidates from those who count downtime each shift versus those who'd put their all in, trying to maximize their time accomplishing as much as possible.

This is another opportunity to share your skills and the contributions you believed you'd deliver to this position. Talk about work-related areas where you showed growth and how you want to continue to grow in a positive direction. Offer stories where you've contributed in the past and how you want to build on those accomplishments.

Don't offer examples that are basic requirements of the job where you have shown a need for improvement. Instead, focus on areas that are within an acceptable range of what might be outside your comfort zone. Showing motivation to expand the sphere of your comfort zone is ideal.

"This takes my career a step forward. I needed to break out of the rut of doing the same job day in and day out. I am beyond grateful for the work I've done, and there is no doubt it's had an impact, but I feel compelled to step further outside of my comfort zone and push myself to accomplish bigger, greater things. I guess I'm greedy that way. When I see I'm contributing to my field, I just wish I could do more."

How long do you envision yourself staying with this company?

"Definitely for the foreseeable future if I should be granted the opportunity. Life is full of twists and turns, for sure, but as long as the company isn't going anywhere, then neither am I."

They are interested in your level of commitment to their company should they hire you. They are also fishing for any personal conflicts an applicant may have that would clash with their goals.

Be honest, show commitment, and exhibit loyalty. If your spouse is in the military and is going to be transferred in two years, reveal that information, expressing the hope that you could stay with the company by relocating or working remotely. Express how your goals align with Pfizer's core values and that you would be a loyal member of the team.

Validate the question by expressing that you understand why this question is important. This will highlight your professionalism, especially if you underline your sense of integrity, and that you have no intention of taking advantage of, or squandering, the opportunity.

"I know your ideal candidate is one who's committed to the role you're recruiting for. This interview process exhausts a lot of your, and the company's, time and resources. I respect this and can assure you I am looking for stability and commitment as well. Should they give me the opportunity, I'd devote myself to it."

What has been your biggest professional disappointment?

"We had a research team dedicated to X, Y, and Z. In my role, I had four working under me, examining A, B, and C. We felt like we were making leaps and strides, but we didn't know our findings were based on a flawed data set that another department didn't properly review. We started hitting roadblocks, and no matter how we examined A, B, and C, we kept having to go back to the drawing board. Our halt in progress held up the whole team. We felt an extraordinary amount of pressure for days until we found the problem. Having run over budget, they shut the research project down, and that was pretty disappointing."

This will evaluate how you handle disappointment and what you learn from it. It will also assess how you take ownership for your own actions, inactions, limitations, self-awareness, as well as your attitude towards life.

Try to offer examples where the circumstances of the disappointment were beyond your control. Apply the STAR method here. Present the situation or task, the action you took, and the result.

It is easy to fall into the emotion of an event when revisiting it. Try to resist this impulse when relaying it. Keep your tone positive and don't present yourself as a victim. The only emotional tell you want to reveal is the confidence you have that this event will not repeat itself because of what you've learned from it.

"They'd just finished building out our department for a project. We'd assembled a great team, recruiting individuals passionate about what we were doing. Our mood was electric. We all showed up for our first day and the phones were already ringing. But the call coming through informed us we'd lost our funding, and they shelved the project. It was a hard day, breaking the news to our team that way."

In your opinion, what is the biggest development in pharmaceuticals in the past three years?

"There have been so many developments in the pharmaceutical industry the past three years, but I felt that the biggest was the creation of the first vaccine for Dengue."

This question tests how specific and current your knowledge is, and how frequently you tap into those resources for information.

The term 'pharmaceutical' refers to the creation and sale of medicine. Explain what you foresee as the most significant development that has happened in the past few years.

The interviewer has answers of their own. They want to see how relevant your answers are to theirs.

"I am most impressed by the way the pharma industry has switched their focus from treatment to prevention. It's a great way to flip our thinking in the industry, and will save the lives of so many people."

"There have been so many developments in the pharmaceutical industry in the past three years, but I do feel that the biggest was the development of the lifesaving vaccine against coronavirus."

Why did you choose a career in the Pharma/Biotech industry?

"I chose a career in Pharma/Biotech because I have always had an attraction to the study of medicine, science, and the correlation between them. It's an ever-changing industry which never becomes dull."

The interviewer would like to know what drew you to a career in their industry. They're trying to determine your level of commitment to this career path and whether you are a good investment.

Show the hiring manager you have a natural attraction to this industry and that you're here to stay. Align your core values with theirs. Keywords that show up throughout their sites include, "Driven to find the cure," We're led by science," "Career roadmaps," "Great things happen anywhere people come together with one shared goal," and helping those "Begin their careers and those looking to advance theirs."Offer a personal and relatable story why you chose this career path and are also "driven to find the cure". Detail where you hope your "roadmap" will advance your "science lead" career over the next five years. Frame what's in it for you in a way that would benefit "your shared goal to make great things happen".

I just kind of landed in it. My parents were both doctors and made me pursue this career. I enjoy doing it because I'm good at it, but I really consider myself a painter. I mostly do watercolors.

"The drive behind my choosing a career in biotechnology was because I love science and helping others. With these two drivers combined, I knew it would be a career choice that I would be happy with for years to come."

"As a child, I was interested in oriental medicine influenced by my father, who was influenced by my grandfather, who was an Asian pharmacist. I had learned about the efficacy of medicinal plants from my father, but I was always curious how natural plants have their potential effectiveness as a medicine. I think this curiosity led me to the pharmaceutical world."

"I love science and helping others. Working in this industry combines both."

How many years have you worked in the Pharma/Biotech industry? What keeps you interested in our line of work?

"I have worked within Pharma/Biotech for the past 15 years. I started in a lab assistant role and am now at the supervisory level with my current company. The opportunities are endless and I stay in this industry because of it. It would thrill me to continue my career growth in this industry with Pfizer."

Your cover letter and resume are a sales proposal. By gaining an interview you've made a conversion, but you haven't closed the sale. The interviewer has your cover letter and resume close at hand. They'll watch for consistency in your answers and how closely they match your CV. Your CV also serves as an introduction. At this stage, they are waiting for you to go deeper into the narrative, as well as points not covered.

Take a few minutes to walk the interviewer through your work history, highlighting the most relevant positions and skills. Talk to the interviewer about your desire to work for Pfizer long-term.

"It's all there on my resume." Restrain from repeating information about you they already know.

"I am new to the pharmaceuticals industry and graduated with my bachelor's degree in pharmaceutical science. I plan to remain in this industry for the entire length of my career. Starting in this apprenticeship role and then moving forward into a role further focused on the development of new treatments."

"Unfortunately, this industry is new to me, but for me, it is very important that my job is meaningful, interesting, and will provide opportunities for development."

"I have worked within the pharmacy industry for approximately two years as a quality assurance officer, but in my whole career I have been responsible for the environmental health and safety of the companies I was working for. I am the appropriate person for this role because I combine previous experience in the pharma industry and in new technologies."

"I have a passion for Pharma/Biotech. I have been interested in medicine and technology since I read my mother's anatomy textbook when I was eight. This industry is interesting and always changing, and I love the challenge."

What industry-related changes do you foresee in the next 12 months?

"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."

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.

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..."

"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!"

"I am not very familiar with this industry, and I am not able to answer this question honestly."

"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."

"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."

How do you stay informed on changes in the Pharma/Biotech industry?

"I follow multiple medical journals and blogs related to changes in the Pharma/Biotech industry. My favorite is wiley.com which is a strong source for updates in a variety of related medical studies."

This question tests your resources and is designed to trip you up, or rather, to call your bluff. Did you share the wealth of your scope in question #4 or can you go deeper? Question 4 asks if you 'talk the talk'. This reveals if you 'walk the walk'.

The Pharma/Biotech industry is fast-moving with changes and developments happening all the time. Assure the interviewer that you are engaged when it comes to industry-related changes.

Prepare for multi-tiered questions to be broken up and scattered throughout the interview. Try not to miss a beat and keep the interview going more like a back and forth conversation. Be quick on your feet with your responses, and exude confidence in your answers. This will make you look like a pro and level the playing field.

"I have set up some industry-related google alerts, and 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!"

"I registered with ScienceDirect. com, but I am always looking for new opportunities to learn. If you have recommendations, I am happy to hear them."

"On LinkedIn, I follow many big pharmaceutical companies like Pfizer, Novartis, Sanofi, Glaxo Smith, etc., so I read their news every day. I have joined in groups and pharma forums, and I discuss about these changes very often with my former colleagues."

If you could choose any special area of focus with Pfizer, which would you choose?

"I am working as a clinical research assistant and would like to grow into a principal scientist role, or something of the like, with Pfizer. My primary goal is to find a long-term home where I can continue to expand my knowledge in (choose an area of study)."

This not only will offer insights as to your career interests but the breadth of your knowledge of what Pfizer offers. Aim to address both in your answer.

Working for Pfizer could open a variety of career options for you. If you had your choice in a career path, explain which career you think you would choose. Talk to the interviewer about where you'd like to see your career path go with Pfizer.

"Ideally, this other position at Pfizer I applied for, but it closed. I wanted that job, but I guess you filled it. I'd like to get hired for this position for now, but have my eye on that other one in case whoever you hired doesn't work out."

"That is a challenging question when there are so many interesting options at my fingertips. If I had to choose just one area of specialty today, I would choose a topic within animal science. I am passionate about the health of animals."

"I think the role of Safety Core Solutions Manager is very suitable for me because I will use all my previous experience and knowledge to the best of my ability. In my current job, I deal with geographically distributed project teams, and I apply project management methodologies in my daily routine."

In your opinion, what has been the biggest development in biotechnology in the past three years?

"There have been so many developments in biotechnology the past three years, but I felt that the biggest was the development in gene editing. It's a controversial and intriguing practice."

This question tests your view of a specific aspect of the industry and is also designed to trip you up. They want to know if you shared the wealth of your scope in question #4 or can you go deeper and have more to offer, and more resources to draw from. In question 4, they tested you on your broad scope of knowledge. In question 5, they ask about your sources. This question will test how specific and current your knowledge is, and how frequently you tap into the resources of information.

The term 'biotechnology' refers to the use of cells and molecules to create a product within medicine, genetic testing, or even agriculture. Offer your opinion on what you foresee as the most significant development that has happened in the past few years. If there are significant developments Pfizer has made, include those.

Don't list off all the accomplishments of your previous employer. This will come across as a limited scope of your knowledge.

"There is a multitude of biotech developments from which to choose! I was reading about these new methods of manipulating human cells to beat a range of diseases. According to Fortune magazine, Chinese scientists have launched the first CRISPR gene-editing trial to treat cancer. It's all pretty incredible, isn't it?"

"In the last decade, the advent of biotechnologies with the ability to convert any blood type into the universal donor type O, 3D printers capable of printing human organs, non-invasive techniques for monitoring fetal genetic abnormalities, and the now infamous CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technique have inspired a serious influx of interested investors into biotechnologies."

"Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are becoming a vital part of the ability to make groundbreaking biotechnological discoveries at a much higher rate than ever before. AI and ML are being used to great effect in diagnostics, as de facto lab assistants, and to discover new drugs."

How does this position fit into your career goals?

"My primary goal in my career as an HR professional is to work my way from an administrator level to HR Partner. I feel that what your organization offers is a strong path towards those goals and I am excited about what this position offers."

Similar to other questions you will be asked, these questions will evaluate the consistency between your answers to similar questions. Keep the answers to your questions consistent in your narrative with your career projections, as well as your career plan. They want to know if this position is a good fit for you or the perfect fit. This will clarify whether you feel this is a step up in your career or - a stagnant move that you are just complacent with taking until something better comes along.

Assure the interviewer that this position will be challenging for you. Offer that you feel it's a step up in responsibilities and that it fits with your overall career goals.

Avoid repeat answers. Even if the questions seem similar, your answers should vary as much as possible.

"My primary career goal is to find a position where I can stay long term. Because your company has such a strong reputation for workplace culture, it fits with my desires for a long-term fit."

"I am looking for a permanent and stable position in a company, where there will be a possibility to progress. In my opinion, companies like Pfizer are saving and improving many lives, and it will be very fulfilling for me to be part of it."

"My dream... and all I wanted is to work for a big or enormous multinational company!Because there, I will have many opportunities to point out my talents and skills.I will have the opportunity to grow, develop, challenge and improve myself.I will have the opportunity to enjoy training from recognized people, socialize with skillful colanguages, and be assessed with meritocratic criteria."

If you could choose any area in your field to study further, which area would you focus on? How do you feel that would help you with a career at Pfizer?

"If I could choose any area of focus, I would enjoy a deeper focus on ortho biologics. The idea of finding advanced ways of assisting the body in healing itself is fascinating to me. If there were advancements in this area, I feel it could help your organization to achieve some major goals as well."

Supposing you've done well on the previous questions that test your industry knowledge, this gives you the opportunity to discuss these areas where you dream big. They want to know your vision and what motivates you.

Talk to the interviewer about your favorite area of study in pharma /biotech. Detail why you'd choose to focus on that area. Share with the interviewer why you feel that strengthened skills, in this area, will help you achieve your goals with Pfizer.

Align your goals and objectives with their own. Touch upon or further explore the common denominator.

"If given the opportunity to further my studies, I would choose to focus on biochemical pharmacology. I feel that will help me in this career here since this is one of your larger areas of focus. Your biochemical pharmacology department is so advanced, the idea of landing a job in that area is fascinating to me."

"I plan on pursuing a master's in the coming years focused on infectious diseases or drug discovery. I have a particular interest in novel treatments for bacterial infections or manipulation of the human microbiome in the treatment of neurological conditions. I also have a keen interest in precision-based medicine and how individual treatments may be adapted to achieve the best outcome for the patient. I believe that innovation and patient focus are keys to progressing and thus remaining educated and up to date on the latest research."

"This position is in the field I want to further my knowledge. I have built my career around building, fixing, validating, maintaining devices, and I want to continue to do so. I hope to learn a lot in this position."

Do you prefer to work with studies related to humans, animals, or plant life?

"I dislike studies related to animals, but I would be willing to do so if required and necessary."

This will give insights into where you'd fit into the team, now or in the future. It also may offer a glimpse into your personality and what motivates you.

Perhaps you have a preference and maybe you don't. However, you choose to answer this question, be sure to keep your reply positive. (i.e., Avoid saying, "I dislike studies related to animals." You don't want to shut down any practice).

In your answer, recognize the value of each choice presented. Show you've thought into each one before delivering your answer.

"I can say that I don't have a preference as yet. As I continue to carve out my career, that may change. However, for the moment, I am happy to be working in the biotech industry in any related focus."

"Because of my passion for medical devices, I would have to say that I prefer to work with human studies. In device design, I have to work closely with the end-user. As someone who has worked in tissue engineering, I hope that we can substitute lab-grown human cells for much of our animal work, but I recognize that animals will never be completely removed from medical research."

"I feel I am a little too early in my career to have developed much of a preference as of yet. During my course of study, we predominately focused on studies related to humans and animals. Mainly due to my thesis focusing predominantly on clinical data from humans I may be a little biased towards human studies. But obviously, a lot of the preliminary material in my course was based on animal studies. Bar some additional side reading I performed on specific plant pathogens or the use of plant extracts as the bases for synthetic drug products I have had little opportunity to explore plant studies but this is definitely something I would like to explore further."

If you could research any particular disorder, disease, or illness which one would you choose, and why?

"At Pfizer, I know that one of your primary focuses is on XYZ. This focus is one reason why I applied to work here because the study of XYZ is a particular passion of mine."

The interviewer would like to get to know you and your particular interests and/or passions. Your answer will offer insights into what motivates you in your field and your value as an asset.

Imagine you had zero limitations, and describe what area within pharmaceuticals would you focus on. Be sure to show your passion for your career path and tie your answer into an area of focus related to Pfizer.

It's acceptable to initially choose more than one, explain what motivates you about each option, and narrow it down to one. It's worth researching where Pfizer is focusing their efforts, and highlighting how those may align with your answer.

"We have so many options in research topics. If I had to choose just one area of research, I would choose to research autism and the spectrum in full. My little brother received an autism diagnosis, and I have the drive to learn more about it."

"At Pfizer, I know that one of your primary focus is on cancer medicines and FDA Approved IBRANCE for the Treatment of Men with Metastatic Breast Cancer. This particular focus is one reason I applied to work here; my little mother died due to cancer in her pancreas, and I have the drive to learn more about it."

"I would focus on cardiac diseases. I worked with in vitro cardiac cells in my previous research. Those cells were very interesting, and I would like to work with them again. By working with induced human pluripotent stem cells, we might decrease the need for animal testing."

Tell me about your greatest work-related accomplishment.

"The greatest accomplishment in my career was graduating university as an honors student while still working full time in a related field. I was top of my class, and working full time. This success showed me I could dedicate myself to my career, and reach the goals that I set for myself. It felt great to accomplish so much and receive recognition for my dedication."

Talking about your most significant accomplishment will give the interviewer a definite idea of where you place your values. It will also show the interviewer more about your personality, how you like to be motivated, and how to coach you in the future.

It is okay to brag a little when answering this question. Show that you are proud of yourself and your career accomplishments!

Offer more than one example. Try to align your answers with goals you've had early on, and how your later accomplishments served as milestones along with your career objectives.

"I am proud of having been chosen to be a mentor to new hires in the department. I think I've informally mentored and exhibited leadership since day one, and to be recognized for being a brilliant teacher and being able to train and shape the recent additions to the department is an awesome pat on the back."

"10 years ago I was sent to UK with another colleague to be trained on Pick by Voice system.On our return, we had to completely change our work system and train all staff on using this system. The whole project was finished on time with excellent results."

"Although I feel my biggest achievements are still ahead of me. But as of now the greatest accomplishment in my career was graduating with my BSc. in Bioscience and Hons. in Biopharma with a distinction while being top five scoring students in both degrees while working part-time throughout my academic years in college. Moreover, before starting my thesis project, I was told by my supervisor that students in the previous year had tried to eliminate contamination in qPCR experiments but hadn’t been successful, thus achieving the aim and providing the department with the SOP I produced, gave me hope that I can dedicate myself to my career and reach the goals that I set for myself."

In your opinion, why is it important to develop relationships with coworkers?

"I value my relationships with my coworkers because we support each other and make each other laugh when the work environment becomes intense. I have a coworker that I eat lunch with every day. We've helped each other out by listening to what's going on in each other's lives. It's nice to have colleagues who understand you on a personal level."

The genuine test of this question is how you interpret it. They are asking if you understand the importance of developing relationships with your coworkers, not if you go out drinking with them every night. Answer why it's important first, then follow up with how you would define a relationship with your coworkers as it might apply to you.The average person spends 8 hours of a workday sleeping, and 8 hours working. The answer to this question will show the value you place on your work relationships, and if you prioritize them by fitting them into your 8 hours of personal time. It will also offer insights into your personality type, and how social you are.

Talk to the interviewer about how you develop relationships with coworkers when you start a new job. Think about what is important to you about these relationships. If your co-workers motivate you when you feel overworked, say so.

This answer may seem obvious to you because enjoying your time with coworkers is sometimes the best part of the job! If you aren't a social person, this question may seem more challenging to answer. If this is the case, it's fine to acknowledge this, but express that you see value in bonding through socialization. "While some of my coworkers go out drinking three nights a week, I attempt to do so about once every week or two."

"To accomplish anything in a job, you need your team members. Your team members are who you rely on to get a project done. You will often call them in when you need advice, or to help pick up the slack when you're in a pinch. If you don't have a good rapport with your co-workers, it can limit your ability to be great at your job."

"In my opinion, building good relationships with colleagues is very important, as it creates a positive work environment, which will contribute to increase productivity, helps to reduce work stress, and increases employees motivation as well."

"First of all, it is very important to have a very good relationship with our coworkers because we spend more than one-third of our life with them. And on special occasions, we spent more time with them than our partners. Also, I believe that all the biggest achievements in the world were the results of teamwork. If someone is alone, he cannot go very far. One person is a drop; together, we are an ocean!!"

When have you had to be extra thorough in completing tasks?

"I have to be extra thorough from time to time when I have clients that are especially detail-oriented. Often, this will mean spending additional time on calls with them to highlight project changes. I am okay with being extra thorough when needed."

Some tasks will require a keener eye and additional diligence, as do some positions. How you answer will offer insights into how you handle challenging situations. It also has the potential to reveal what you are comparing your experience to. If your example describes a unique and complicated situation, that might impress, as opposed to one where your extra thoroughness met the bare minimum of their expectations for the position they are hiring for.

Discuss a time when you were extra thorough during a work-related project. Try to make it especially unique. The more examples, the better.

"Every day! You betcha! I'm super thorough in all my work. You can ask anyone."

"I am always thorough, but we have monthly team meetings where we discuss our performance metrics. That reporting takes a little longer."

"I am always thorough because I believe that the detail makes the champion! However, in the position, I have now all the contracts that my company signs with our customers are under my consideration. So I must be very careful and perfectionist when I read all these contracts."

By this time in your career, you should have advanced further. What has slowed down your career progression?

"I agree with you that my career progression has been slower than some. You'll see between 2001 - 2009, I worked for the same company without an increase in my job title. The company was too small to offer a promotion to me, as the next level was ownership and the business wasn't for sale. After that, from 2009 to 2012, I was on leave as I needed to care for my ailing parents. The growth since returning to work has been steady, but those years were a bit of a standstill for me. I am ready to spring into action now and forge ahead in my career."

When an interviewer sees slow career progression on your resume, they will want to determine whether this is by your own choice, outside circumstances, or lack of motivation. If your career has progressed slower than you wish, you must be honest with the interviewer when discussing this.

Experiences where the greater need requires you to put your personal goals aside for the greater good. Relatable life experiences also work well here. In most cases, our paths are rarely linear. Focus on your career journey, describing the twist and turns along the way, and how it leads you to the present day, sitting at the interview discussing this opportunity.

Avoid excuses or any narrative that paints you as a victim. Avoid statements like "back on track." This might lead to assumptions on flakiness in your commitment to the role.

"Early in my career, I was left to care for an elderly, sick parent. Her care required more of me than expected, so I allowed my career to sit and wait. I am happy with that decision. Spending those last precious moments with a loved one is worth the setback."

"Unfortunately, in my previous job I was in the highest position and didn't have opportunity to progress."

"I have worked with several small companies of less than 20 people. I achieved the highest possible positions available at those companies. Because those companies were so small, I had to learn how to perform a variety of tasks and research, which expanded my knowledge base and allowed me to gain the myriad of experiences that give me an appreciation for multidisciplinary team building. I've been a scientist, engineer, quality control, and clinical worker, and this experience will allow me to bring together an excellent team."

Would you further your post-secondary education to include a Ph.D. in your field?

"I have considered furthering my education to include a Ph.D. It would need to be in tandem with full-time employment, but I would consider achieving this goal through evening and weekend coursework."

This will help them assess your career goals and how you feel another degree may advance them. One candidate may evaluate their success in their scientific accomplishments, another may feel more driven to rise through the ranks. Some may find the most ideal candidates balance these, where their accomplishments enable them to rise through the rank.

Some upper-level positions within Pfizer may require a higher level of education. Assure the interviewer that you're open to discussions on enhancing your knowledge to grow within the organization.

Think of your career path broken up as a 5, to 10, to a 20-year business plan. Meditate on your ultimate ambition and break up how'll you'll get there into attainable goals. If that involves gaining a PH.D., detail why this is important to your career plan, where it fits into it, and how you achieve that goal sustainably.

"Oh yes! I am a big believer in higher education. These days, to be a stand-out candidate or employee, I think that having a Ph.D. is best."

"I have considered furthering my education to include a Ph.D. Generally, as you can see in my CV, I follow a continuous learning lifestyle."

"When I was in the Master's program, I considered continuing to obtain my Ph.D., but at this point in my career, I don't think it would benefit me. If that changes in the future, I love learning, so I would be willing to pursue a doctorate."

This position requires a minimum bachelor's degree in a science related field. Walk me through your post-secondary education.

"I have a bachelor's degree in biology from Tampa College of Natural and Health Sciences. I graduated with honors which was an especially proud moment for me since I had also been working part-time."

Your post-secondary career is significant in displaying your ability to complete a degree, your ability to multitask, and how you apply yourself. This will also offer insights on how it connects to your present-day, what you gained from your education, whether your degree is related to your field.

Walk the interviewer through your post-secondary experience. Highlight any recognition or awards you may have achieved.

They are trying to get to know who you are. Remember, they are interviewing a stranger. So offer a narrative where your degree is the prelude to the story of your career. Make sure it has an enticing hook which serves to entice them to be part of your story as well.

"I recently graduated from the University of Georgia with my degree in pharmaceutical science. With this degree, I look forward to joining Pfizer and carving out a great career with you. When the timing is right, I do plan to return to school to obtain my master's degree in a science-based field. This extension of learning, of course, would be in tandem with my full-time job."

"I recently completed my undergraduate in Microbiology at Trinity College Dublin. As part of my studies, I completed an independent research project focusing on antibiotic-induced multidrug resistance in immunocompromised patients. In this research, I worked closely with members of the ______ Lab at the ______ institute and analyzed data and samples provided by a research institute in France. In previous years I carried out guided experiments with my colleagues on a variety of microorganisms using various sample preparation and analyses techniques. I also completed additional online training courses by organizations such as the CDC on topics like outbreak management and good lab practices."

How do you determine priorities when you have multiple projects due?

"I will determine which project requires my attention by the number of hours we are behind and then the project size. I am comfortable delegating tasks when needed, but I know these times will require an additional commitment of hours from me. Never have I underdelivered on a deadline."

This will evaluate whether you have a broad scope of the big picture or a more narrowed, focused view. They want to know if you have trouble breaking away from the one task you are working on, or if, when a more urgent situation arises, you can put your personal preferences aside for the greater good.

When you feel torn between multiple projects or tasks, break down how you decide which one needs your attention the most. Describe the conflict, how you track your progress, and your ability to pick up where you left off. Assure the interviewer that you can be diligent in assessing your priorities.

Multitasking means performing two high level cognitive tasks simultaneously. This is something the human brain is not capable of. However, the meaning extrapolated from multitasking is typically one's ability to switch back and forth from one task to another, your ability to prioritize their importance, and track your progress on each.

Prioritizing is a skill that requires practice. There are many approaches you can take. Here are some suggestions:1) Make a list. By thinking through and writing down each item that needs completion, you can see it on paper. 2) Mark what is urgent or essential. Take into account deadlines and meetings. 3) Order each task based on effort and estimated value. Considering due dates and how long it will take to do each item (also considering how much time you have). In answering this question, show the interviewer that you have a system in place that helps you to think through what needs to happen, and when. The better you can prioritize, the more productive you will be, making you an asset to their company!

"I always write them on paper and will write beside each project: urgency, how many hours each task will take to complete, deadline, available resources, and help. I will decide then which project will be the most important to start with."

"Because I always have many things to do, and in my current job, I have multiple projects, I have my system in place that helps me think through what needs to happen and when.I have a list of my tasks and projects, and thus I don't forget anything.I prioritize what is urgent or essential depending on the number of days we are behind or the project size, the customers' needs and the administrative decisions. After that, I order each task based on effort and estimated value."

"When developing a final product, there is a multitude of small subsystem projects that come together all at once. To stay organized, I keep an overview list of my priorities and charts with details and progression. At XYZ Company, I was in charge of the department. By making sure my department was properly trained and stocked, I could delegate individual tasks as necessary to my staff and interns."

Describe your work style?

"The first thing I do is check in with my team leaders and the rest of my team. Some days I have one singular focus at work, and other days I have several balls in the air depending on the needs of the team. So I check in, prioritize and adjust."

They are assessing how you will fit in the team and the work environment. It will also offer insight into how adaptable you may be to their way of doing things.

Know the basics of what the position at this company looks like. Highlight your strengths, your flexibility, and that you are easy to work with. Describe your system approach, as well as how you adapt your work style based on the situation.

This is an opportunity to highlight what aspects of your work style have greatly benefited your work in the past. If there are aspects of your work-style coworkers have borrowed and adapted into their style, be sure to focus on that as well.

"I approach every day with a systems approach. I use my systems to track progress, prioritize and shift focus when needed, and also to avoid fatigue. I need to stay productive, so if I feel like my work is slowing down one project, I'll switch gears to another priority when the needs of the team allow. My mind is always fresh. I'm a compulsive multitasker."

When a problem requires a quick solution, how do you respond?

"When an urgent problem arises at work, I always try to respond in a calm and assuring manner. I am a natural leader, so my team often looks to me for answers. One instance of my fast thinking was just last week when we had an administrative employee no-show on a crucial and busy day for us. I called a temp agency, and they filled the position in just one hour."

Going with your gut is a skill, and the more you learn to trust your intuition, the easier it becomes to make these types of decisions. This will also help determine if you look to others or superiors to take charge or if your decision-making skills exemplifies you as a leader.

Demonstrate confidence and an ability to react when the need arises. Problems that require you to act quickly can be emergency situations, such as knowing where the fire extinguisher is and grabbing it fast enough to put out a small grease fire in the company kitchen. Another example is if you're asked to take on additional responsibilities and are only given five minutes to decide if it's something you are prepared to take on.

With complex problem solving, every situation might require a different approach. It takes practice, experience, confidence, and keeping calm under pressure to evaluate the wisest course. Sometimes a good plan today is better than a better plan tomorrow. Sometimes not.

"I react swiftly in emergency situations. Perhaps my skills come from my years as a parent, having to think fast and put out fires! If a quick solution is required, I will do a fast overview of the facts and decide based on risk factors."

"I will gather as much information as possible, and I will get more experienced colleagues involved as well."

What sources do you look to when you need to solve a complicated problem?

"When faced with a complicated problem, I will look at the resources that my current company has provided me. The answer is almost always in there. If it's more of a moral dilemma vs. a knowledge-based dilemma, I will ask my supervisor for his thoughts and opinion since I value him as a mentor and expert in our industry."

The interviewer wants to know if you can be creative, or even ask for help when you are stuck on a complicated problem. It will offer insights into your network of other contributors in your field.

Maybe you look to a mentor or boss for advice. Perhaps you have handbooks, manuals, and systems you turn to for help. Offer some relevant examples based on your industry. If you work in the medical field, you may turn to textbooks, online research, colleagues, or even a patient's history to find the right solution. If you work in customer service, you may ask the customer what they need to find the best way to solve the problem. Show the interviewer that you are knowledgeable and equipped to handle these types of scenarios.

The tools you have in your kit will reveal how resourceful you are at your job. If you've collected a library of information over the years, whether through physical copies or a digital library or resource, detail this and emphasize any systems or organization you've implemented to access them.

"To solve a complex issue, I will reach out to a manager or mentor from a previous role to ask them how they've handled such issues in the past. I am always ready to dive back into our handbook, but these types of scenarios are often not covered there, which is why I value a human, experiential approach. I know that there are so many folks in the industry who have so much to teach me and have already "been-there-done-that," so I love to utilize them as a resource."

"When I have to solve a complicated problem, I will use all reliable information provided to me and if that is not enough, I will approach my supervisor. I always like to get a few more experienced employees involved, as they will have more experience, and it's always good to see it from another angle."

"Research is one of my favorite parts of the job. When I have a complicated problem, I get motivated and start looking at scientific literature, databases, YouTube, and scientific community forums. If necessary, I design and run experiments to test my hypothesis."

Give me a specific example of a time when you had to conform to a decision with which you did not agree?

"There was a project our team was working on, but progress slowed. There was something we were missing. Our team leader spent a lot of time developing us in our roles. But because progress slowed he got transferred to another department and his replacement's style was more stern and more of a micromanager. Morale definitely suffered, but our new team leader had a different lens and was able to identify solutions our old leader did not."

This question assesses how you handle situations in the workplace which at first glance, may seem to clash with your ideals. How you respond in such situations is what the interviewer is looking for.

Pfizer is led by science. Science literally means 'the study of nature.' Asking questions rather than being guided by assumptions should be the focus of your example. The policies coming down from the top are likely in place for reasons you are not fully aware of unless you are on the board or are in the executive inner circle. Asking why this policy is in place, expressing interest in the nature of the policy, and the bigger picture and ultimate goals reveal a vested interest in the company and putting your all in reaching those goals as a member of the team.

"I got riled up. Everyone agreed with me that the policy sucked. But my hands were tied. So I just kept my head down while I looked for another job."

"The company implemented a new system to manage our output. But these new procedures created an extra five steps, to monitor our productivity because they felt there was a growth opportunity there. Not only did having to jump through all those additional hoops interrupt our workflow, but so many other systems had to be implemented just to track our work, which was being interrupted. They were looking for areas to increase workflow, so they implemented policies that cut our productivity rate in half."

What would you do if a colleague took credit for your idea, and got a promotion?

"I've experienced this firsthand. I was pouring over my findings and came up with this idea. Just as it occurred to me, a colleague asked what I was working on. I told them, and they got excited and started helping me quantify my data. Later on, our group had to give a presentation, and my colleague delivered it. When our team leader followed up with some thoughts, my colleague contradicted their speculation with my findings and presented my idea as an alternate solution. The next thing I knew, they promoted them to another department. When I confronted them, they apologized for how things unfolded and told me they gave me credit behind the scenes. When reviews were delivered they showed appreciation."

Often when situations like this present themselves, they result in an inner struggle within the team, which puts a team leader in a position of parenting, distracting them from their other responsibilities. This assesses how well you deal with disputes on your own. If you haven't tried to communicate with your fellow team members to resolve disputes on your own, this will raise the question of how well you work within a team. Your answer will also offer clues as to the level of your emotional maturity.

Tell them you took some time to calm down and assess the situation. Describe how you tried to resolve the situation on your own by asking the employee who took credit for your work what happened. Then describe what you learned from that exchange and what you did with that knowledge.

"I brought it to the attention of my supervisors right away. I should've been promoted, not that person. They should be aware that the person who stole my idea lacks integrity and doesn't deserve to be rewarded for something they earn."A leader will ask you tried conflict resolution with your coworker prior to bringing it to their attention. They have other priorities and would prefer you handle it on your own when possible. Maybe they forgot you mentioned the idea and genuinely believed it was their own. Perhaps they intended to give you mutual credit as a collaborator and, under the spotlight, forgot. Perhaps they were too embarrassed to admit it after the fact. When working in a team, everyone should work together, and always be given the benefit of the doubt. When a team leader has to drop what they're focused on to deal with inter-personnel disputes, this can hinder their progress and timelines, and also hurt the functionality of the team.

"I think I'd wait for a good time to discreetly give them a chance to explain why they did so. There are two sides to every story, and there is no way I can scientifically draw a conclusion from assumptions. So first I'd need to collect as much data as possible. Then I'd need to evaluate what winning in such a situation looks like. Whichever course of action serves the greater good would be the appropriate course of action. Luckily, I trust the intentions of those on my team, and this hasn't happened to me."

Pfizer Interview Questions

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1. How have you handled working under someone you felt was not good at communicating?
2. What are your strengths?
3. Would you describe yourself as more analytical or interpersonal?
4. Are you able to relocate if required?
5. Who would you say inspires you?
6. List three qualities that make you the best candidate for Pfizer.
7. When have you shown great integrity at work?
8. How do you define success?
9. Describe to me your ideal employer.
10. What are your salary expectations?
11. Are you applying for any other jobs?
12. How would you rate your performance in this interview so far?
13. Describe to me the position you're applying for?
14. How would your previous employers describe you?
15. What challenges are you looking for in this position?
16. How long do you envision yourself staying with this company?
17. What has been your biggest professional disappointment?
18. In your opinion, what is the biggest development in pharmaceuticals in the past three years?
19. Why did you choose a career in the Pharma/Biotech industry?
20. How many years have you worked in the Pharma/Biotech industry? What keeps you interested in our line of work?
21. What industry-related changes do you foresee in the next 12 months?
22. How do you stay informed on changes in the Pharma/Biotech industry?
23. If you could choose any special area of focus with Pfizer, which would you choose?
24. In your opinion, what has been the biggest development in biotechnology in the past three years?
25. How does this position fit into your career goals?
26. If you could choose any area in your field to study further, which area would you focus on? How do you feel that would help you with a career at Pfizer?
27. Do you prefer to work with studies related to humans, animals, or plant life?
28. If you could research any particular disorder, disease, or illness which one would you choose, and why?
29. Tell me about your greatest work-related accomplishment.
30. In your opinion, why is it important to develop relationships with coworkers?
31. When have you had to be extra thorough in completing tasks?
32. By this time in your career, you should have advanced further. What has slowed down your career progression?
33. Would you further your post-secondary education to include a Ph.D. in your field?
34. This position requires a minimum bachelor's degree in a science related field. Walk me through your post-secondary education.
35. How do you determine priorities when you have multiple projects due?
36. Describe your work style?
37. When a problem requires a quick solution, how do you respond?
38. What sources do you look to when you need to solve a complicated problem?
39. Give me a specific example of a time when you had to conform to a decision with which you did not agree?
40. What would you do if a colleague took credit for your idea, and got a promotion?

Pfizer Interview Questions

1. How have you handled working under someone you felt was not good at communicating?

2. What are your strengths?

3. Would you describe yourself as more analytical or interpersonal?

4. Are you able to relocate if required?

5. Who would you say inspires you?

6. List three qualities that make you the best candidate for Pfizer.

7. When have you shown great integrity at work?

8. How do you define success?

9. Describe to me your ideal employer.

10. What are your salary expectations?

11. Are you applying for any other jobs?

12. How would you rate your performance in this interview so far?

13. Describe to me the position you're applying for?

14. How would your previous employers describe you?

15. What challenges are you looking for in this position?

16. How long do you envision yourself staying with this company?

17. What has been your biggest professional disappointment?

18. In your opinion, what is the biggest development in pharmaceuticals in the past three years?

19. Why did you choose a career in the Pharma/Biotech industry?

20. How many years have you worked in the Pharma/Biotech industry? What keeps you interested in our line of work?

21. What industry-related changes do you foresee in the next 12 months?

22. How do you stay informed on changes in the Pharma/Biotech industry?

23. If you could choose any special area of focus with Pfizer, which would you choose?

24. In your opinion, what has been the biggest development in biotechnology in the past three years?

25. How does this position fit into your career goals?

26. If you could choose any area in your field to study further, which area would you focus on? How do you feel that would help you with a career at Pfizer?

27. Do you prefer to work with studies related to humans, animals, or plant life?

28. If you could research any particular disorder, disease, or illness which one would you choose, and why?

29. Tell me about your greatest work-related accomplishment.

30. In your opinion, why is it important to develop relationships with coworkers?

31. When have you had to be extra thorough in completing tasks?

32. By this time in your career, you should have advanced further. What has slowed down your career progression?

33. Would you further your post-secondary education to include a Ph.D. in your field?

34. This position requires a minimum bachelor's degree in a science related field. Walk me through your post-secondary education.

35. How do you determine priorities when you have multiple projects due?

36. Describe your work style?

37. When a problem requires a quick solution, how do you respond?

38. What sources do you look to when you need to solve a complicated problem?

39. Give me a specific example of a time when you had to conform to a decision with which you did not agree?

40. What would you do if a colleague took credit for your idea, and got a promotion?