28 Varian Medical Systems Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Varian Medical Systems 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.
1. At Varian Medical Systems, we do a lot of cross functional team projects. Tell me about a project team you've been on and your role.
How to Answer
If you thought group projects ended in college, you were wrong! Most organizations have their share of project work as well as the day to day work. Walk the interviewer through a successful project where you played a big role and had large ownership.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"At my company, I was selected to represent my department in a larger project team to implement a new CRM system. We met weekly, sometimes twice a week for about 12 months, My role was to make sure our old CRM system data converted into the new one and that it was organized in a useful way. I collaborated with IT as well as the project manager for the new system to make sure the data was useful and organized. When the new system launched, our old and rich data was there and useable so that we could maintain relationships we our customers seamlessly."
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"For example: "In college, we had to do a big project in my Marketing class where we created an advertising campaign for a local business. I was in a group with 4 people, none of which I knew very well. We started talking to figure out where people's strengths were and there was clearly a person who was more technical, one who was a really good presenter and communicator, a financial person, and me, the creative person. We all had our own lanes, but came together to help on the different pieces. We pitched our idea and the business we had modeled, actually wanted to implement the majority of our ideas."
Written by Ryan Brunner
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Stephanie's Feedback
2. As the manager for this position, I'm wondering what inspires you to be the best you can be in your work? What can I do as your manager to help you feel inspired and empowered?
How to Answer
A common theme within the walls of Varian Medical Systems is the need to be inspired and motivated to succeed in the business of creating innovative solutions in the treatment of cancer. For this question, your interviewer is looking to hear two things: what your internal motivations are to succeed and what your manager can do to ensure that you are inspired in your work. Now is a chance to give your interviewer some insight into what make you tick as an employee and what you expect from your leader. Be open and honest with your answer here.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Personally, being inspired in my work stems from knowing my part in the overall success in achieving the mission of the organization. In looking to come here as a Customer Success Specialist, that would entail utilizing a combination of my sales and service skills to ensure that healthcare organization and physicians are taken care and treated respectfully. As an employee, I definitely prefer a leader that is approachable if I have questions or concerns while being open and honest with feedback given back to me. If hired for this position, you'll quickly find that I'm a no frills person that prefers up front honesty with no sugar coating things. You'll also find that I would take this same approach with you as we look to build the best sales and service team possible."
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"If you talked to my current manager, they'd tell you that I do my best work when I'm given an initial goal or direction and then given the freedom to run with the project or task. I'm a self motivated individual that loves to tackle projects on my own or by assembling a team of experts. From within, my heart has always had a close tie to the medical industry and I'd love the opportunity to bring my marketing skills to a fine organization like Varian Medical Systems."
Written by Ryan Brunner
3. When is the most proud you've been of an organization that you worked for?
How to Answer
Through innovation in the industry, Varian Medical Systems has helped revolutionize the treatment of cancer for millions of people worldwide. This innovation has been a prideful venture for the organization and the leadership at Varian Medical Systems allows employees to celebrate these innovations and successes. For this question, your interviewer is ideally looking to hear that you take pride in the overall victories for the organization that you represent and that you are able to see the big picture on top of your day to day work.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
Answer Example
"I'd have to say the moment I was most proud was two years ago when my organization won the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige Award for Quality. It had been a goal of my organization for many years and one of the key components was customer service and feedback. In the sales world, we had measured success factors in customer satisfaction for many years and had implemented many great new processes to improve in this area. To see it all come together with the award and helping in the success leading up to the honor was a very proud moment for both me and my department."
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
4. Talk about a unique partnership that you have developed during your career. Why was it unique and why was the partnership important to the success of you and your organization?
How to Answer
Being a partner for life is one the four core values at Varian Medical Systems and their belief in creating significant partnerships falls both within the walls of the organization and outside of them to external customers. For this question, your interviewer is looking to gauge your ability to build strong partnerships by having you talk about a unique relationship you developed that help lead to success. Make sure to walk through the keys to building the partnership and explaining how the relationship led to something greater.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Being a firm believer that building strong relationships helps build a stronger future for both me and my organization, I take this philosophy in all aspects of my career as an engineer. Being a member of the IEEE, I was attending a national conference a couple of years ago and attending networking events. Having met and talked to a peer that was involved in the circuit board manufacturing industry, I knew that my organization was coming up on our current circuit board contract the next year. As we traded knowledge over the lunch hour at the conference, I explained my business and what our needs were of a potential new vendor. I knew of exciting changes coming down the pike and talked about those as well. After exchanging business cards and having an email conversation monthly, the contacts organization made a great proposal for our next contract and it was a true win-win situation for all involved."
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"When I took my current job seven years ago, it didn't take long to notice tension between my department and the production management staff on the floor. As an Equipment Maintenance Technician, I knew that a great working relationship was necessary between the groups and I didn't take any preconceived notions or past biases to heart. Right from my first day hitting the floor, I communicated regularly with the two Production Supervisors I would be working closely with. Looking back, just approaching them and getting to know them really opened up some doors that weren't open to my colleagues. A year or two down the road, I learned that a past tech in my department, who was later terminated, had really soured the relationship to an almost irreparable spot. I'm very thankful I took the open approach that I did to help mend fences between the larger group in both departments."
Written by Ryan Brunner
5. Many of our projects have very strict timelines. Tell me about a time you missed a deadline or deliverable and how you handled it.
How to Answer
Everybody makes mistakes and it is best to pick a project where the missed deadline wasn't fatal and you were able to recover and learn from your mistake.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"We had a new leader start recently. To get her up to speed, she asked for a number of different reports in a 2 day turn around time. She needed them for an executive meeting she was going to. One of the reports was very manual and with my other responsibilities, I just wasn't able to get it done in time. I went to her office and told her that I could have this complete tomorrow, but I wasn't able to finish it for her meeting this morning. She asked what I was working on and I explained my competing priority. She recommended that I come check with her to get help prioritizing in the future. I learned a big lesson that day about using your leader as an advocate for you. I should have come to her first. I've kept this in mind in other scenarios when I've had competing deadlines."
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"For example: "As a new grad, I remember in college, I had a huge project due in my economics class at the end of the semester. I made a schedule that would help me get all of the pieces of this project done in time, but part of my project required outside data that I needed from a different university. There was a delay in this data getting to me and it delayed some of the subsequent steps of my project. I ended up getting it just a few days before the deadline. As hard as I tried, I couldn't get it submitted on time. I was absolutely devastated. I called my professor who understood, but I got a reduced grade because it was late. I learned that I should have chosen a data source that was more readily available to me but also that I could have looped in my professor earlier who might have had another idea."
Written by Ryan Brunner
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Stephanie's Feedback
6. For you, what are the keys to treating those that you work for in a respectful and dignified manner?
How to Answer
At Varian Medical Systems, treating others with respect and dignity are key components to their stance on diversity. The organization values individual differences and leverages the individuality of their team to achieve results. To get at the heart of your stance on being part of a diverse workforce, your interviewer is looking to hear what respect and dignity mean to you in the workplace with this question. In your answer, think about the little things that you do to promote respect between yourself and those that you work with and stress that this is your standard approach to working as part of a diverse team of individuals.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"To me, respect starts with effective interpersonal communications. For me, this includes being open to new ideas, reflectively listening to others, disagreeing with tact and dignity, asking a lot of questions and showing appreciation for the help of others. Once I've established a solid ground for communication, respect is further bonded through my ability to be open, honest and ethical in every interaction with my colleagues."
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"If you were to poll all of my previous coworkers regarding what my best quality was, I think that a common them would be that I'm respectful. I have a natural ability of being a bridge builder among a team and an ability of focusing on the needs of others first and foremost. Respect and dignity boil down to showing others that you care about them, their ideas and their opinions and my stance of knowing that I am not the final answer for most things is important in this aspect."
Written by Ryan Brunner
7. Our focus here at Varian Medical Systems is to provide solutions in Oncology and the treatment of cancer. What knowledge or experience do you have in that arena and why does our mission interest you?
How to Answer
Passion and inspiration are a vital part of life at Varian Medical Systems and your interviewer is looking to gain insight on what your knowledge and/or experience is with cancer treatment and how passionate you will be working in the industry. You can draw on your knowledge from both your own personal experience outside of work or any on the job experience you have and then tie that experience towards the passion you would exhibit on the job. Be sure to research the cancer fighting solutions in radiosurgery, radiotherapy and proton therapy that Varian Medical System produces and talk to their importance in the treatment of cancer.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"As you can see from my resume, my engineering experience falls solely in the electronics manufacturing industry outside of healthcare. But what I lack in direct experience working with equipment used to fight cancer I make up for in passion in helping tomorrow's physicians and care providers help fight the nasty disease. I recently lost my best friend to a brain cancer that was left untreated as it had progressed to far by the time it was discovered. His loss shook his family, friends and loved ones terribly, including myself. This alone would drive me to help create and design new and innovative products that would help survival rates of those diagnosed in the future."
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Coming from the medical imaging industry, I'm obviously familiar with Varian's great radiation treatment and proton beam machines. I have a ton of respect for your stance in the market and would love to help represent this organization with Oncologists and cancer care staff in the region here. In my search for a new position, my top goal is to stay in the medical industry where I can do my part to be a difference makers in the lives of others. When it comes to field service, I would be able to train and be up and running in a short amount of time."
Written by Ryan Brunner
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Stephanie's Feedback
8. In the medical device industry, there is a lot of industry jargon and lingo and many acronyms to learn to understand the business. What are some strategies you've used to acclimate quickly when you've started a new job in the past?
How to Answer
The medical device industry is highly technical. Even if you aren't an engineer, you still need to know very specific information about the product so you understand the business. There is a learning curve for any new employee, but the ones who can pick up things quickly set themselves up for success faster.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"When I started my last job, I was hearing so much unfamiliar terminology my first week, so I started making a list and then when I had time to ask people or look things up, I'd add it to the list until I knew what everything was. My list became pretty extensive, so the HR person who does onboarding actually asked me if she could give it to new hires from now on because it was really helpful."
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"For example: "I love Google. In almost any environment, when you don't know something, you can start on Google and go from there. I take the time to research outside of work the elements of the industry that I don't know to get up to speed faster. By week 2 and 3, I'm have impressed the people I work with as contributing to the business."
Written by Ryan Brunner
9. At Varian Medical Systems, giving back to the community is really important to us. What are you doing in your current position to give back?
How to Answer
Charitable giving is common in the medical device industry. The interviewer wants to see that you care about more than just a job but that you find joy and purpose in giving back to your community.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"At my company, we are close to an elementary school and volunteers are needed to read to the students each week. I volunteered immediately and have been part of this program for 2 years. Sometimes it is hard to leave the office each week because I'm so busy, but each time I go there, it is so rewarding. "
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"For example: "My company didn't have a robust volunteerism program and we are pretty small, so I actually started a school supply drive to benefit schools in our community. This isn't something our teams were used to doing, so it took some promotion, but in the end, we ended up with a huge amount to donate. The schools were so pleased and it really boosted engagement at our office."
Written by Ryan Brunner
10. Here at Varian Medical Systems, we actively promote a culture of giving through many great programs that impact lives in a positive way. In what ways have you given back during your personal life or career?
How to Answer
Varian Medical Systems promotes giving and donation programs in many ways. Their partners in giving program lets staff support their favorite charities by matching donations as an organization. The organization promotes and organizes cancer walks, food drives, blood drives, toy drives and helps provide global outreach to those in need around the world. For this question, your interviewer will be looking to hear that you have the same giving mindset by having you talk a bit about things you've done in the past. If you are young in your career or haven't done much to this point, be sure to reiterate to your interviewer that you'd love to help out where you could if hired for this position.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I feel very fortunate to have participated in some great charity and giving back activities throughout my career. With my current employer, I have organized a back to school supply donation campaign for students that come to school with insufficient supplies needed for their education. I've also helped organize book drives in the inner-city schools as well. In reading about some of the efforts that Varian Medical Systems put forward, I'd love to be a part of those if hired for this position."
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Through high school and college, I really appreciated the community service I was able to participate in. As you can see from my resume, I've spent time at the local food pantry gathering donations and sending out to families in need. As part of my program in college, I also helped organize and participate in a fun run to benefit the local children's hospital. I feel fortunate to be raised by parents that felt it was important to help others whenever necessary and I never take what I have for granted because of my upbringing."
Written by Ryan Brunner
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11. Doing well by doing the right thing is one of our core values here at Varian Medical Systems. Have you ever encountered a time where doing the right thing was difficult during your career? How did you overcome that difficulty?
How to Answer
Whether it was delivering honest, but bad, news to someone or owning up to a mistake in your own work, we've all had a difficult time in doing the right thing during our career. For this question, your interviewer is looking to gauge your moral compass by having you talk through a situation where doing the right thing was difficult and having you talk about how you overcame that situation. In your answer, try to hit on the importance of having integrity in all that you do and the overall importance of doing things right versus taking shortcuts.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Last year, I was working on designing a prototype for a customer and in that design process, I asked to borrow some expensive equipment from the customer that would help during my design process. Having a great working relationship with them up to that point, they let me take it with me back to my office. Later that week, realized that I had lost one of the pieces. I retraced my steps to every place I could remember and searched through my car several times, still to no avail. Immediately, I did the right thing and called my contact with the customer right away and owned up to my mistake. While it would've been easy to place blame elsewhere, I am a firm believer in forgiveness for honesty and doing what is right. The customer, while upset initially over the phone, wasn't hesitant to forgive me for the mistake and we maintain a great relationship to this day."
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"For this question, I'll go back to the time that I was monitoring personal usage of company equipment as the IT Manager of a small organization. We had pretty strict policies regarding personal usage of company phones and emails. I close colleague of mine was blatantly violating several of the policies and after a first warning from me, the issues still continued. The easy thing to do would've been to turn a blind eye, but I'm not about that whatsoever. Wasted time and company resources effect everyone in the end and I didn't hesitate to approach the colleague's leader with the issue at that point for them to handle disciplinary action from there."
Written by Ryan Brunner
12. In the medical device industry, it is important our teams are cohesive so we can continue to drive excellence. Tell me about a time you gave feedback to a peer?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know that you aren't shy about giving feedback to your peers to help them succeed. True leaders show their true colors by mentoring and supporting colleagues, not just by supporting and training direct reports. Show the interviewer that you care about the development of others are aren't afraid to give feedback.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I noticed my peer was really struggling with her communication with another leader. He would get very anxious and even out of breath when he was telling me about what was going on. One of the times that he was venting to me, I listened, but then asked a few more questions to probe deeper. Through my questions, my colleague was able to think of a few different strategies to try when working with this person in the future. The power of the question is very powerful."
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"For example: "We had bi-weekly team meetings and we do a lot of brainstorming during that time. One of my colleagues came across really negative and would shoot down people's ideas really quickly. This really deflated the energy in the team. I asked him to go for a walk with me and I told him how his behavior was being perceived. He was caught off guard by this feedback. However, because we were walking and our bodies were moving, it helped him to calm down and hear me. At the end, he thanked me for pulling him aside and talking to him about it and I could tell at the next meeting that he came with an attitude that was different and more open."
Written by Ryan Brunner
13. What is a work accomplishment you feel very proud about that you'd like to share?
How to Answer
Everybody has that shining moment in their career that they look back on and feel good about. Share a work accomplishment that is significant to you and let the interviewer hear the passion in your voice.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I have been selected to the President's Club 3 years in a row. The first year I was selected, I am especially proud of because I was given a territory that was performing really terribly. I didn't know if I'd be able to turn it around. With focus, dedication, and a close eye on numbers, I was able to make really great strides in that region and it is still a high performing area for the company."
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"For example: "I'm really proud of the fact that 3 of the people who reported to me have moved on to leadership roles within my company. Coaching and mentoring people is really important to me and I spent a lot of time with these individuals talking to them about what it would take to get to the next level. They were like sponges and listened, and then did exactly what I knew they could do. Teaching others is something I have a great passion for."
Written by Ryan Brunner
14. How do you want to grow your career within the medical device industry?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to hear that you would like to stay with the company as you develop new skills. Tell the interviewer your long term goal, but make sure it aligns with where the company is going.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I noticed at Varian Medical Systems, you have offices in over 20 countries. This is really exciting to me. I'd love to be in this role for several years, but then think about how I could use the skills I've learned to work in one of your global locations. I'd love to work overseas for a few years and then come back to a leadership role."
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"For example: "One of the elements of Varian Medical Systems that I really love is the career growth opportunities. I'd love to take the knowledge I'll gain in this role and move to the sales organization to be the person in front of clinicians, showing them the great things our devices can do. When you are selling something you believe in, it doesn't really feel like selling, it just feels like helping people."
Written by Ryan Brunner
15. At Varian Medical Systems, we strive to make a positive impact on the lives of the millions that rely on our innovations. Talk about a time you had a positive impact on a colleague or a customer. How did you do this and how did it make you feel?
How to Answer
In the world of cancer treatment and therapy, patients and their families are seeking life altering treatments and Varian's goal is provide those treatments and save lives. For this question, your interviewer will be looking to break down the philosophy of having a positive impact to you as an individual. In your example, think about a time you went out of your way to make a positive difference for someone and talk about your thought process in doing so. Most importantly, talk about why it was important for you to do so and paint the bigger picture of your desire to be a positive influence on others that you work with.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Last year, I noticed that a colleague on my team had been slowly letting important tasks slide and miss deadlines all while seeming very disengaged and not very talkative at work. Over lunch one day, I asked her if something at work had been troubling her and at that point, she really opened up about some medical issues going on in her family. In wanting to boost her spirits, I quickly put together an office gathering at a restaurant after work the next day in support of her after gaining her permission to let our team know what was going on. She was so appreciative of me and the whole team's efforts to lift her spirits in knowing that others cared about her so much."
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Just a few weeks ago, I was on a service call to a great customer that I had worked with for many years. Having gotten to know the receiving and warehouse staff very well, we always took five to ten minutes to catch up when I was onsite. When I arrived that day, I quickly noticed that the roof over their loading dock had collapsed due to the weather. When I arrived in the building, the staff were quickly rushing around to get things moved for shipments coming in and I wasn't hesitant to help wherever I could. I quickly asked the supervisor what I could do to help until the engineer I was meeting arrived. He put me to work out on the dock helping to pick up scrap and clear a lane for trucks to arrive. I went about my business when the engineer arrived. While completing my work, the shipping supervisor came and personally thanked me for the help I provided. Looking back, I'd do this again in any situation."
Written by Ryan Brunner
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Stephanie's Feedback
16. At Varian Medical Systems, we believe in continuous feedback so we can all improve. When is a time you received constructive feedback?
How to Answer
All companies need people who can take criticism and give it without feeling weird or sensitive about it. Demonstrate to the interviewer how you have used a piece of constructive feedback to improve and get better.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"In one of my reviews, I received feedback that I didn't delegate enough and therefore, it made it seem like I didn't trust my colleagues. I really took that feedback to heart. I took a look at my work load, which was really high, and made some priority buckets. There was one bucket of work that was very low risk and I distributed it to my team. One team member did a really great job so I was able to give her some of the more complex projects."
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"For example: "I received feedback that everybody knows what I am thinking from my non verbal expressions, especially in meetings. That was really tough feedback to hear. That entire next year, I worked very hard to ensure my facial expressions were positive and neutral versus worried or anxious, no matter what the content of the meetings were about. It was a tough exercise, but I'm glad I received the feedback or I would not have known this."
Written by Ryan Brunner
17. When starting a new job, what are steps you've taken to develop a 30, 60, 90 day plan for yourself?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to make sure you'll acclimate quickly and have concrete goals to set the path. Show them that you plan out your goals but also recognized you need your team to help.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
Answer Example
"I like to take the first week to meet people and look at the data to see what the story is. also love to ask questions... many times, people within the department have thoughts and feedback that becomes really important. I then start carving out the 30/60/90 day plan and ask my leader for feedback to see if s/he agrees or has any other initiatives they believe are important that I've missed. Keeping the lines of communication open is very important at the beginning!"
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
18. Tell me about a time you took initiative on your own.
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that you are a go-getter and aren't going to wait to be asked what to do. Walk them through a scenario where you took it upon yourself to fix something and didn't run to your leader with a problem, but had multiple solutions.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I noticed we were taking at least 2 hours a week on a manual report that seemed to be a big waste of time. I started playing around in our system at the different reporting features and was able to test and customize a report that could take the place of the manual report. After my testing, I brought the idea to my boss who made a few tweaks, but was thrilled I had discovered a more efficient way to give customers the same information."
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"For example: "I noticed a huge skill gap in the team's use of Microsoft Excel & PPT. Because I come from a different industry, I had to utilize these tools a lot and volunteered to host a series of lunch & learns for anybody who wanted to brush up on them."
Written by Ryan Brunner
19. First and foremost here at Varian Medical Systems, our primary core value is putting our customers first. Talk about a time that you put the needs of a customer or colleague first. Why was it important to do so?
How to Answer
In the medical device industry, and in particular the cancer and oncology services industry, the customer drives business. With that in mind, almost any decision or new product at Varian Medical Systems takes the cancer patient and their physician/medical staff into consideration. For this question, your interviewer will be looking to see if you have this same customer centric focus by having you give an example of a time that you did. On top of the example that you give, be sure to explain why it was important to do so in that situation to give your interviewer the reassurance that you are always focused on the bigger picture in your work.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Currently working as a Marketing Specialist for a large manufacturer, I consider my closes customers the internal sales and design staff. Last year, the design and production team had a last minute design change to a new product that was being rolled out in less than a month. Having had just finished up that advertising campaign a few weeks prior and moved on to other projects, I re-prioritized the work currently on my plate to do some emergency work on a completely new campaign for the redesigned product. My manager commended me for taking the bull by the horns in that situation and both the design and sales teams were very grateful as well."
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"A couple of months ago, I received a call late on a Friday afternoon after most of our warehouse and office staff had left for the day. The customer was in dire need of a next day shipment of supplies from us and I assured him that we could make it happen that day. Immediately after taking the order, I left our office to head out to the warehouse to find any staff that I could. Being that our shipping staff was gone, the guy in our warehouse and I pulled the order, boxed it and contacted UPS about picking up for next day shipment that evening. Being that our shipping system was down, I paid for the shipment with my company card and later expensed it with no issue to assure that the customer got what they needed" The next Monday, our Sales Manager thank me for the extra effort that Friday afternoon.."
Written by Ryan Brunner
20. In the medical device industry, we are highly regulated by the FDA and other entities. What experience do you have working with regulatory bodies?
How to Answer
The medical device industry is one of the most highly regulated spaces to be in. Tell the interviewer what exposure you have had in this space. If you haven't had this yet, be honest, but also acknowledge that you know what they are talking about.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"In my current company, I work on a team with those in government relations on the device that I manage. I work with our engineers and scientists to make sure we are proving and testing all the claims we are making about our product. The government relations team is actually the ones with the regular contact with FDA but I help to support their work to make sure we have approval."
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"For example: "I have never worked in the medical device space, but my company has other regulatory bodies that have regulations we need to follow, so I am accustomed to reporting and adhering to certain standards. I'm confident I could quickly learn all the elements I need to regarding the FDA very quickly."
Written by Ryan Brunner
21. In the medical device industry, a background in science is really helpful so you can learn how our products work and help save lives. Tell me more about your background in health sciences or anatomy.
How to Answer
At Varian Medical Systems, every employee has to have basic level knowledge of what the medical devices do but beyond that, if you don't understand basic anatomy and the medical conditions associated with the devices, you can't really see the big picture. Give the interviewer any background you have in human anatomy or science so they see you intellectual horse-power.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
Answer Example
"I started my college career wanting to be a physical therapist. I took all of the basics in chemistry, biology, and anatomy. As I went on, though, I realized that my passion for business outweighed my passion for hand's on patient care."
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
22. What does a great work team consist of in your eyes?
How to Answer
If you did your due diligence and researched Varian Medical Systems, you found that common themes of a team based atmosphere were everywhere. For this question, your interviewer is looking to hear your thoughts on what working as part of a great team consists of. Be open and honest about your work style and how you work as part of a larger team. Talk about expectations that you have of others that you work with and make sure that your interviewer sees that you are a firm believer in a team based atmosphere in the work that you do.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Being a believer in the notion that two heads are better than one, I thrive in a team based atmosphere. As an Electrical Engineer, I love partnering with my team of engineers, manufacturing leadership and R&D people to come up with creative solutions to put to market. I have a unique set of skills and knowledge. When partnered with the skills and knowledge of others, we can do great things together."
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Throughout my career, I've definitely had the chance to be a part of some great work teams and they've all had some things in common. First and foremost, a shared commitment and purpose is absolutely necessary for a team to function at its best. From there, an effective team has individuals with expertise that cohesively work together. There has to be room for give and take between members of the team and the approach of an open mind to see things from others perspectives. Communication is also extremely vital to working as part of a great team. If hired for this position, you can rest assured that I'd bring these aspects and more to the team here at Varian Medical Systems."
Written by Ryan Brunner
23. At Varian Medical Systems, our medical device products touch lives throughout the world. We have offices in over 20 countries. Tell me about experience you have working with a global workforce.
How to Answer
In global companies, there are many nuances. The EQ and exposure to working with people in other countries is really important to create community and understanding. Highlight any experiences you've had and highlight your excitement about working in a global environment.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I have learned so much from the global experiences I've had so far. One of the biggest learnings I have had is that words mean different things to different people. It is a good idea not to use expressions or slang terms when working with people in other countries because the translation doesn't come through. I try to speak slowly, clearly, and use simple words to make sure we are understanding one another."
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"For example: "I haven't had the opportunity to work in a global organization yet, but this is one of the reasons I'm really excited to work at Varian Medical Systems. I went to a college with many international students and I learned a great deal about cultures and traditions in other countries. I learned a lot about listening to understand versus talking to be heard. Given the chance, I could represent Varian Medical Systems in a very positive light to global colleagues."
Written by Ryan Brunner
24. At Varian Medical Systems, we believe in finding the most efficient ways of doing things. How have you used technology to be more efficient?
How to Answer
Think about ways you have to utilize technology to the fullest but also how you have learned something new and added value with the new tool.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"We just implemented all of the Office 365 tools. There are more programs than I can imagine in that suite, so in my free time, I've been looking at as many as I can to see how we could incorporate these tools into our process. I found a scheduling app that I am testing right now to save some of the back and forth with clients as we try to schedule conversations. It has saved me at least 2 hours a week so far, so I'm planning on rolling it out to my team next month."
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"For example: "I love finding any means of technology that helps me save time, both at work and at home. I recently began using an email application that uses machine learning to automatically reply to emails for me. Just with that quick implementation, the application has already saved me countless minutes every day."
Written by Ryan Brunner
25. The technology in the medical device industry is changing rapidly. At Varian Medical Systems, we are investing in new technology to help patients and our teams do their jobs more effectively. How do you keep up to speed with changing technology?
How to Answer
The interviewer is looking for a candidate who is up to speed with the latest technology and can pick up new systems quickly.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
Answer Example
"Our team is moving from JDE to Oracle. I was selected to be part of a project team to help with the implementation because I tend to be on the tech-savvy side. I have been building out the process for my function and incorporating feedback from my team so they feel a part of it. We are now in the testing phases before the go-live and everything is running smoothly. I'm excited for the new tools and features so we can do our jobs faster."
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
26. Do you have experience working in a compassionate environment? If so, what were the benefits of this type of work environment for you personally?
How to Answer
A key component of the culture in working at Varian Medical Systems is the promotion of a compassionate and inspirational work environment. Whether you do or don't have experience in working in this type of environment, your interviewer will be looking to hear that you will be able to thrive in this environment. In your answer, talk about the importance of care and compassion in the sense of helping with employee retention, motivation, reduced stress and overall work satisfaction and make sure that your interviewer understands that you will help promote this environment.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"For me personally, I have always come from the perspective that my colleagues are my family. We spend countless hours together and it is very important that we treat each other respectfully, care for each other and get to know each other personally. Doing this allows us to work together in harmony and be more productive in the work that we do."
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"In the two jobs I've had since graduating from college, I've experienced both ends of this spectrum. My first employer promoted teamwork, cohesiveness, events and fun in the workplace and compassion really stemmed from these things. When my family relocated to the west coast, the new employer I found hindered all of these things and compassion and cohesiveness just wasn't promoted. As I began a job search and read more about the culture here at Varian Medical Systems, I can honestly say that this culture is one of the biggest draws to me working here."
Written by Ryan Brunner
27. At Varian Medical Systems, our medical devices can truly change people's lives. Sometimes, though, a patient may have a question or concern about one of our devices. How have you handled a difficult customer interaction in a previous position?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know you can handle the stress of a difficult customer interaction. The customer could be a physician group who use the medical device or an actual patient who has a question or concern about your product. Show the interviewer that you can stay cool under pressure and resolve the concern.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I am a lead in our department, so I take the calls that are escalated or too difficult for one of the other reps to handle. I had a customer who was yelling about how much money he spent on the device and it wasn't working. He was beyond the return date, so we couldn't give him a refund. I let him get all of his anger out and finish talking. I then asked him questions and always addressed him by first name to try and build some rapport. I learned that he hadn't been to see his physician to follow up. We have relationships with the care-givers at one of the local facilities, so I was able to put him on hold, and see when they had an appointment available. When I transferred him over to the scheduler, he had calmed down a bit. It wasn't a perfect scenario, but I tried to treat him with dignity and respect and not take it personal."
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"For example: "I used to be a waitress in college and dealing with difficult customers was my specialty. My co-workers would always give me the regulars who were cranky because I had a way of working with them that made it look easy. One evening, I had a customer who was very upset with his food order. I listened to his concern and asked him if he would like me to bring him something else, but he kept going on and on and was getting quite loud at this point. I apologized again and asked told him I could give him a discount on his order or bring him another choice. He ended up taking the discount and leaving, but at least his volume went down and he left. Difficult customer interactions don't always end perfectly, but I feel I handled the situation appropriately."
Written by Ryan Brunner
28. What interests you about working in the medical device industry?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to hear your passion for the industry. Demonstrate that you feel value in the devices that could positively impact somebody's life.
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I have always wanted to work in an industry that is innovative and cutting edge. It has been really fun to see how medical technology has been able to save lives. It would be fun coming to work every day knowing you are doing something to better people's lives."
Written by Ryan Brunner on March 30th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"For example: "As a new graduate, I have been exploring many different industries and the medical device industry is my number one choice. I considered going into medicine, but I love the business side of things and this way, I can utilize those skills to help people's quality of life."
Written by Ryan Brunner