35 MSL Interview Questions & Answers
Behavioral
1. Talk about a time when you had to be extra diligent in order to meet a deadline.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Part of your duties as an MSL will include deadline-specific tasks like trial registry, creating presentations, and writing for publications. Your interviewer would like to know that you are a diligent individual when it comes to meeting the work-related deadline of an MSL, especially when you are multitasking many things at once.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about your ability to act diligently on the job. Your example should clearly display how you organize yourself in your work to ensure that you prioritize upcoming deadlines while still ensuring all other work gets completed on time. Don't hesitate to talk about any tools and resources you use to keep yourself on track with meeting deadlines in your work.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Just a couple of months ago, my current organization was releasing two new drugs and my large client load required a great deal of planning to prepare for taking it live to the market. In the weeks leading up to the official release, I sent out client communications via email and then made a detailed plan for site visits with my top KOLs. My organization is very thorough with new drug releases and the expectation is that all of our collaborating physicians be armed with knowledge of the drug within a week of hitting the market."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Behavioral
2. When a problem requires a quick solution, how do you typically respond?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
When it comes to complex problem solving as a Medical Science Liaison, decisions are not always readily reached. It takes practice, experience, and confidence to learn what sorts of decisions yield the best results. In asking a question about your ability to respond quickly to solutions, your interviewer wants to hear that you would join their team with the ability to be confident and calculated in your response to the situation.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
Walk the interviewer through your process when it comes to making quick decisions. Maybe you rely on past experience or perhaps you go with an educated gut feeling. Maybe you have read case studies that you lean on in these instances. No matter how you answer, you want to ultimately demonstrate that you are confident and able to react swiftly when the need arises in the field with a key medical leader.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"First and foremost, I stay calm in the moment and rely on my knowledge to help come up with a solution. I use my best judgment to gauge situations. If a decision can take some time to be more thought out, I don't hesitate to communicate that to key stakeholders and get their input."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Behavioral
3. What challenges do you anticipate if hired as our next Medical Science Liaison, and how will you meet those challenges?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
When starting a new job, you will always face new challenges. Given the MSL positions can differ from company to company and medical industry to different medical industry, your interviewer wants to hear that you have put some thought into this question, that you recognize where you might personally be challenged and that you have a plan for tackling any challenges that you foresee.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
Discuss with your interviewer a couple of responsibilities in this MDL role that will present a learning curve for you. What your interviewer will ideally be looking to hear is that you have a plan in mind for meeting and overcoming the challenges that you foresee. Perhaps this opportunity requires you to learn the details of an unfamiliar medical specialty and you know that it will take some time to adjust. Be honest with the interviewer about the challenges you expect to face; however, focus most of your response on the action steps you plan to take to meet these challenges.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"As you can see from my resume, I have spent the last 10 years of my career in medical devices. While I am very confident in my abilities to build great relationships with the KOLs I will be supporting in this role, my learning curve will come in resetting my focus in the cardiovascular care arena of healthcare. If I were fortunate enough to be offered this role, I would immediately begin learning and mastering your products to become as knowledgeable as possible on day one of the job."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Behavioral
4. Can you work under pressure as a Medical Science Liaison?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
At times, the work-life of an MSL can include long hours, days on the road, and increased pressure to help boost company numbers. Your interviewer wants to know that you are cognizant of these pressures that their MSL will face and that you will come to their organization armed with the tools to handle that pressure.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
Don't sell yourself short by giving a simple yes or no answer. Take advantage of this question and take the opportunity to sell your skills and value profiles. Provide a brief yet comprehensive answer and seize the opportunity to sell yourself.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Yes, I usually find the pressures in this work stimulating. I believe in being proactive and not reactive in my work, and this helps me avoid the physicians that are inpatient. I also incorporate detailed planning and time management into my daily routine to avoid any stressful situations."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Behavioral
5. Do you consider yourself as someone who is direct and forthright with others?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As an MSL, you will need to be direct in working with the internal teams of developers and the physicians you will work alongside. The interviewer wants to see that you do not leave people hanging when it comes to answering questions, providing direction, or offering necessary feedback. Talk to the interviewer about a time when you were candid with a coworker, customer, or superior, ensuring that they had the direct information they needed from you.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
What to Avoid
When responding to this question, you want to avoid coming across as meek and timid to the interviewer. When searching for their ideal candidate, they want to hire an MSL who is direct and candid with those they work with. Be confident and optimistic in your response, showing the interviewer that you have the skills needed for the job.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Yes, I do consider myself to be direct with others. The most professional and respectful thing to do is get to the point across in a considerate way. I never sugarcoat a situation; however, I assume that everyone had the best intentions. One example of my being direct is when one of my team members delivers a project report with errors. I will approach them and say, 'There are errors in your report. Are you able to fix these by the end of the day?' By doing so, I point out the issue while being transparent and direct on what the deadlines are for resubmission. As the person leading something to the finish line, I must be clear on expectations every step of the way."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Behavioral
6. When change occurs in healthcare, it can create new problems. Do you see inevitable changes as inconvenient problems or opportunities to learn?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Throughout your time in training and in your medical experience, you already know that problems often arise due to new implementations and procedures or unforeseen kinks that need smoothing when a change occurs in the workplace. Your interviewer wants to see if you positively approach these changes or resist the change.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
What to Avoid
Pharmaceutical, biotech, and other medical device companies must be flexible and willing to approach change as an opportunity. Due to the ever-changing nature of continually developing and releasing new products in the industry, MSLs must hold this same value. Reiterate to your interviewer that you thrive in the ever-changing environment that you will be joining in this role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Change is inevitable when you work in the healthcare industry, as technology and innovation are constantly improving the way frontline care is brought to patients. In this field and working as an MSL, I thrive on these innovations and love the fact that I get to spend the remainder of my career as a student of the industry. With your organization, I would thrive on the new innovations you will bring to the market throughout the remainder of my career."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Behavioral
7. Talk about the most challenging aspect of your current job. How did you overcome it?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
MSLs face challenges each and every day on the job when the expectations of the KOLs and the vision of the organization they represent don't align. To get a sense of your ability to handle this aspect of the role, your interviewer wants to hear you discuss a challenge you faced and overcame in your current job.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
Sometimes the most significant workplace challenge is a difficult task that puts you outside of your comfort zone. It could be something that requires skills you haven't mastered yet or qualities where you are not the strongest. Explain to the interviewer why it was difficult, but be sure to spend more time highlighting the actions you took to overcome the challenge. If you are a new graduate seeking their first MSL role, it is okay to talk about a challenge you tackled during your doctorate program.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Over the last three years in my current job, budgets have been tightened extremely and this has challenged all teams to really rethink the way we do business. Rather than sulk in the face of budget cuts, I faced the challenge head-on to think of creative ways to bring our products to the market in an effective way. I worked very closely with our sales team on setting up new virtual call formats with our network of physicians. We also found creative new ways to network with potential new physicians to collaborate with. Looking back today, we were still able to grow business in the face of budget cuts."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Behavioral
8. Our MSL's play a critical role in the success of our organization. How can we motivate you as a leader, keeping you engaged in the job?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Medical Science Liaisons holds a crucial role in bridging the gap between new product development and the frontlines of providing care to patients. With such a busy and task-filled schedule, it's no doubt that even the most poised MSL can be in danger of feeling unmotivated and disengaged now and then. If they are to seriously consider you for this role, the hiring company wants to know how they can encourage you.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
What to Avoid
As you answer this question, you should be able to identify and express what keeps you showing up, working hard, and supporting your team. Your motivation may be that the idea of success and achievement drives you. Perhaps you are working towards career advancement. Take some time to think about what truly motivates you. You want to avoid saying that you do not need the company to keep you motivated, that you can do it on your own. Even the best leaders need outside motivation from their superiors and those they work with. The interviewer wants to see what they can do to help you shine in your position and keep you motivated and inspired as their next Medical Science Liaison.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"What motivates me is the potential to continue to grow with a blooming company and take on more responsibilities down the road. I value a company that appreciates me and all of its employees. I value recognition, especially when it plays a role in taking my career to the next level. Loyalty is rare these days, and it's something I truly value."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Communication
9. How would you describe the written communication skills you would bring to our organization as an MSL?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Being a bright communicator, in written form, is an essential skill to master as a Medical Science Liaison as you will be providing written tactical plans and other disease-specific product info to the physicians you work with. If they are going to consider hiring you, your interviewer needs to be assured that you would come to their organization with stellar written communication skills.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
Discuss any courses you have taken in communication, journalism, or writing. As well, talk about the direct work experience you have in preparing advanced written communications as an MSL. If you have a sample of your written communication in the form of a report or a work-related article, you can certainly bring that example with you to your interviewer. Talk to the interviewer about your written communication abilities and support your answer with a case or story. Some possible words you can use to describe your writing style can include articulate, crisp, formal, and succinct.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I would describe my written communication skills as succinct yet details and would rate myself as a 9/10. Physician stakeholders are often very pressed for time and the physicians I've worked with throughout my career have always commended my ability to provide relevant information and next steps in my formal written communications to them. I'd look to bring these same skills to your team as your next Medical Science Liaison."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Direct
10. Have you ever provided training to physician and other healthcare leaders? If so, what aspect did you enjoy most, and what did you find most challenging?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Even though it can be intimidating to train a group of high-level key opinion leaders in the medical field, this will be a critical part of the role of an MSL. Your interviewer wants assurance that you are confident enough in your training abilities and presentation skills to deliver an effective training session, regardless of the level of the medical professionals you will be providing training for.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
If you have direct experience in providing training to medical staff, be sure to talk in detail about the materials you presented and be open and honest about what aspect you enjoyed and what you found to be challenging. Be sure to talk about the size of the group that you presented to and how you handled the entire training to give your interviewer the sense that you can handle providing leadership training at their organization. If you are a new grad that doesn't have direct experience in this realm yet, talk about your experiences in training and educating other medical professionals and how this experience will help translate to this role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"In my current position, I provide small-scale training for providers of small clinics and large hospitals. I love helping bring new pharma products to them that can help benefit their patients. The most challenging part is ensuring that I am as educated as possible prior to meeting and presenting new drugs to providers so I am able to answer questions. As I'm involved in the conversations and trials in new drug development with my current organization, I'm always very well prepared."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Discovery
11. What do you like to do in your free time?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Working as an MSL can be a stressful job, and the interviewer wants to see that you can find a work/life balance and have a way to stay healthy. The interviewer asks this personal question to learn more about your interests, hobbies, and personality. They also want to see that you take time for yourself with activities outside of work and know how to decompress from the job stressors.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
Prior to your MSL interview, put some thought into how to answer the question that comes up about yourself and your personal life. Keep your activities positive and don't hesitate to give some insight into your family life and any unique things about you that shows you would be a great fit with the team you are interviewing with.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"In my free time, I enjoy being outdoors as much as possible. Working inside most of the time makes me want to be in nature, enjoying the sun and fresh air. My favorite activities are playing tennis, riding my mountain bike, and trail running. I am fortunate to live in a community with public tennis courts and trails right out my back door."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 30th, 2022
Discovery
12. What gives you the most satisfaction working as an MSL in the healthcare industry?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Job satisfaction is a significant factor in making the right hiring decisions. For this reason, the interviewer would like to unpack the details of where you derive your motivation and satisfaction in your career as an MSL. Talk to the interviewer about what satisfies you in your work and keeps you moving on the most challenging days. Be sure to show enthusiasm for your career path and this new job opportunity.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
What to Avoid
The interviewer wants to see the passion for your job in your voice and facial expressions. If you do not show enthusiasm in your response, the interviewer might feel that you lack motivation and satisfaction in your profession. They want to hire Medical Science Liaison who is energetic, enthusiastic, and satisfied working in this role, so speak with passion as you answer.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"As a Medical Science Liaison, I gain the bulk of my satisfaction from being able to exercise both my analytical mindset and creativity. I'm also very people orientated, so knowing that I would be working to help improve outcomes for patients would keep me focused and motivated every day."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Discovery
13. Highlight your top leadership qualities for me. How do they benefit you as a Medical Science Liaison?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a successful MSL, you will be collaborating with top medical professionals in your industry and being the key component in bringing ideas back and forth from the field to your organization. This requires a vast amount of leadership qualities. Your interviewer wants to know what you consider strong leadership qualities for an MSL. Be sure to discuss how these qualities will help you succeed in this role and benefit the organization if hired.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
What to Avoid
When describing your leadership qualities, avoid general terms, and give specific examples of these qualities you possess. Instead of saying an MSL needs to have excellent communication, you should back it up with examples of your excellent communication skills in action. A great leader is someone who people naturally want to follow. They have exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships with nearly any personality type. A respected leader will take ownership of their mistakes and always lead their team by example. True leaders see the importance of motivating others and recognizing even the smallest achievements. As you know, these are all essential qualities for a Medical Science Liaison.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I sum up my leadership qualities as dedicated, attentive to detail, and accountable. As a respected MSL, I must lead by example and show my team what it means to be dedicated to a job and deliver the best work. For the physicians I work with in the field, my leadership would entail being a knowledgeable leader who partners with them on solutions for patients. My approach is beneficial because it teaches my team to own up to their mistakes and work hard to reverse any errors we may encounter during a project release. My approach benefits the physicians I collaborate with as well."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Discovery
14. With your education and a wide array of options, why did you choose a career path as a Medical Science Liaison?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewer is interested in what inspired you to pursue a career as an MSL to determine what type of employee you will be with their organization. They want to see that you are passionate about your work and are in this field for the right reasons. They know that your educational path could have led you in many different directions and want to hear what really makes you tick in this work.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
Prior to your MSL interview, put some serious thought into what motivated you to enter this career path. Whether you have a Ph.D., PharmD, or other advanced degrees, you had many career options and your interviewer needs to hear you speak with passion about why this work was right for you.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"As I progressed throughout my Ph.D. program, I had the opportunity to shadow a wonderful Medical Science Liaison for a month during the summer. Getting to see firsthand how they listened to their KOLs and took ideas back to their organization to drive new development strategies was amazing. Having at one time wanted to get into cancer research in a lab setting, this shadowing experience really opened my eyes to taking cancer research and drug development to the field and have an impact on patients on a daily basis."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Discovery
15. What do you think our company's biggest challenge is?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As your interviewer likely considers a great pool of highly qualified MSL candidates, they will be looking to see how much each candidate has prepared for the interview process. This question allows them to gauge your understanding of their business and what challenges they face now and in the future.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
This question presents an opportunity for you to stand out from other candidates by providing specific details of how you plan to make a positive impact when you are hired. Be as detailed as you can while expressing enthusiasm for the opportunity to meet the company's needs by utilizing your greatest strengths and talents.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I envision one of your biggest challenges is the competition from other reputable pharmaceutical companies. While competition can make things challenging in healthcare, it also helps spark new innovations and your organization is no stranger to this. As your next MSL, I would be diligent in providing the best service possible to clients to ensure that we were winning in the healthcare market at all times."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Discovery
16. What are you most looking forward to in this role as our next MSL?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewer asks this question to assess whether you can fulfill new responsibilities in their organization as a Medical Science Liaison and whether you fit in well with their culture. They are also looking to gauge your overall excitement for this role and maybe even gain some insight into what motivates you on the job.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
When formulating your response, align the responsibilities and opportunities in your current role with those of the role you're applying for. Assure your interviewer that you've done your research on the job and the culture by speaking about what makes you excited about this MSL position. No matter how you answer this question, be sure to speak with passion, as that will be one of the top qualities they will be looking for in the candidate that they hire.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"As I set out on this job search, the two key things I looked for were a fit with the corporate culture and a role focused on biotechnology. I love that your organization prides itself on innovation and being a leader in your field and it is an organization that I would be proud to represent each and every moment in the field."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Discovery
17. How do you keep up to date on new technologies and trends in this industry and your career as an MSL?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
One way that a potential employer will gauge 'fit' with the MSLs they consider is by ensuring that you are passionate about their particular industry and look to stay educated and up to date on new trends in their field. This question opens the floor for you to talk about the ways that you keep yourself educated in your field.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
The best way to show your natural interest in your role is to study industry trends, newsworthy events, and policy changes. Show the interviewer that you are still excited about your industry by openly discussing how you stay on top of industry trends. If you belong to any societies or MSL-related groups, now is a great time to talk about that and the benefits that you have reaped from your memberships.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I have been a member of the MSLS for five years now and have been an active participant in training events and conferences that they have on an annual basis. I love being able to network with other MSL professionals and have a solid network of contacts I consult with on a regular basis. I also subscribe to a few great publications, including the NEJM and the Neurology Journals, to help stay on top of new technologies and trends in the field."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Discovery
18. If hired as our next MSL, do you have the availability to travel regularly throughout the region?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Some Medical Science Liaison roles require regional travel and this can often be extensive travel. If asked this question during your interview, travel will be required and your interviewer needs to be assured that you are able to handle this basic requirement of the role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
Even prior to applying for this position as an MSL, the travel requirements should have been laid out in the job description. Come prepared to show your interviewer that you are aware of the travel requirements, that they fit with your personal life, and that you are excited for the opportunity to travel to meet face to face with key medical experts in the field.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Yes, I am readily available to travel for this role when required to meet with physicians throughout the region and even the country. Having notice of my schedule, and hopefully even the ability to coordinate my travel would be key to finding any necessary childcare when needed between my spouse and me. I love the fact that this MSL opportunity would allow me to meet with physicians face to face in the clinical setting and would look forward to doing that here."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Discovery
19. How would you define excellent customer service as an MSL?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a Medical Science Liaison, your goal will be to develop excellent peer-to-peer relationships with key medical experts in your field to help your organization grow. Your interviewer knows that these relationships will best be built on the service you are able to provide, so they want to hear what providing excellent customer service means to you in this role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
Excellent customer service goes beyond doing precisely as your expected, and it's more than having a smile on your face when the physicians you work with are looking. Excellent customer service means that you actively seek out the opportunity to deliver more than the standard. It means thoroughly listening to your key experts when they tell you what they need. Also, it equals offering support when a physician maybe a little bit in over their head. Keep your answer brief but ensure that it packs a punch.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"As an MSL, excellent service to the physicians that collaborate with means going beyond what they expect from me. I regularly send follow-up communications after a new product is brought to them, asking if they have questions and just seeing how things are going with its use. I take the time to provide product training with the physicians and other staff, even if it means staying a few extra hours with them."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Discovery
20. What does the word 'innovation' mean to you as a Medical Science Liaison?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The term 'innovation' is often overused in the medical industry these days and has now become a buzzword that many people don't fully understand. Your interviewer would like to know what you feel innovation indeed is for a Medical Science Liaison.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
Include an example of a time when you have witnessed an innovative change in the workplace, or when you have exercised creativity.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"To me, innovation means presenting a new idea or making an existing idea better. It's important to be new and innovative as a Medical Science Liaison. Two years ago, our company was facing budget cuts. One creative way I looked to help save travel costs was by setting up virtual advisory boards with some of the top cardiologists we worked with on trials. This helped save big time travel costs and our KOLs really appreciated this idea as well. I am still using the virtual advisory boards to this day."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Discovery
21. What do you hope to achieve in the first five years as our Medical Science Liaison?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewer wants to ensure that the candidate they ultimately offer their MSL role to is dedicated to building successful relationships with key healthcare leaders in the field and will be with them for the long haul. They don't want to invest in someone who is going to leave a year or two down the road.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
Come to your MSL interviewer prepared to talk about your thoughts on what success will look like in this role. By researching the company you are interviewing with and the details of the particular MSL job you interviewing for, you will get a good idea of the ultimate goals of the job. Be honest but emphasize that you plan to continue building your MSL skills and progressing within the industry. Show that you are ambitious and goal-oriented, as well as passionate about the company you are interviewing with.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I've put a lot of thought into this. My first goal would be to grow and foster the already existing relationships your organization has with the oncologists who are providing frontline cancer care to patients and helping grow your clinical trials with them. From there, I would use my insight and network of contact to help grow the number of physician contacts regionally and nationwide."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Discovery
22. Why do you think companies need to employ MSL's?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Medical Site Liaisons can play a multitude of roles within different organizations. Your interviewer asks this question to ensure that you have a firm grasp of what their role looks like and that you see yourself thriving in it if hired.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
Come to your MSL interview prepared to discuss your personal thoughts on why your job is important to the overall successes of the company that employs you, the healthcare teams that you work with, and the patients that ultimately benefit. Then, try to discuss those factors when discussing this particular MSL role that you are interviewing for. Speak with passion as you discuss the overall importance of this role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I really think you can boil this down to the keyword in the job title, liaison. While some organizations use alternate job titles for this role, Medical Advisor, the term liaison is defined as facilitating a close working relationship between people or organizations. Because healthcare is becoming extremely subspecialized and providers are becoming overwhelmed with the vast amount of care resources out there, this role helps ensure that physicians understand the use of your products. It also helps bring back solid feedback and information to your engineers and sales team."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Discovery
23. When planning for a client interaction, presentation or report, how often do you create alternative scenarios to help you adjust to changing situations?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Being able to problem solve and think outside the box when it comes to changing situations is a valuable skill set to have as an MSL. Your work with KOLs in the field will never be predictable and your interviewer needs to ensure that you have the ability to plan for and handle situations that throw you for a curveball to ensure success in your work as an MSL with their organization.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about your ability to create a variety of potential scenarios in the work that you do. You may never need to take on these scenarios; however, it's great for the interviewer to know that you can adapt your plan on the fly.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I feel that it is essential to create alternative scenarios in all situations as a Medical Science Liaison. Whether I am preparing information on a new device to discuss with a key team of physicians or preparing a report to my KOLs, I always prepare for questions that will come my way to ensure that I have all the answers to predictable questions. I also like to plan for alternative resources for my KOLs to ensure that their needs are being met at all times."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Experience
24. Have you ever worked in a cross-functional environment as an MSL?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
No matter if you are applying and interviewing for a role as a Medical Science Liaison with a large medical device manufacturer, pharmaceutical developer, or a contract research organization, you will be working cross-functionally with teams of internal developers, engineers and scientists. Add to that the fact that you will be the liaison between the company and medical professionals in the field and your interviewer needs to know that you are experienced in communicating and collaborating with multiple teams in this role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
Maybe you headed a project which required you to collaborate with the members of different internal departments. You may have had the opportunity to organize a volunteer activity or team-building exercise, company-wide. Share any challenges that came up and what you learned from the experience. As you research the MSL role you are interviewing for, try to talk about the importance of working with all of the cross-functional teams you will be in this role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Exposure to cross-functional teamwork in my current position is widespread. In my current role in Myeloid Hematology, I work with drug developers on creating and marketing new trials and have to be the ultimate learner and educator with the healthcare providers in my network. I believe that when expectations are communicated clearly from the beginning, a cross-functional team project can be very successful in any new MSL project. I go into these types of projects with an understanding that everyone has their strengths and limitations based on their expertise and job function."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
General
25. Talk about the various administrative duties you are responsible for in your current job. Why are these duties important to the overall success of a Medical Science Liaison?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Success as an MSL involves many different administrative duties that often aren't the most exciting or gratifying duties. Your interviewer wants to hear that you take them seriously and that you understand their importance in the overall process.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
When not in the field meeting with physicians and other key healthcare leaders, you will be handling duties like working through email communications, creating presentations, and analyzing data. As you discuss the administrative duties that you handle in your current role and talk about why they're important in your job, keep in mind what administrative duties you will be handling in this role. Before your interview, try to do as much research as possible on this role so you can speak to your ability to handle all duties required in this job to impress your interviewer.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"In my current job, I take a lot of pride in the administrative duties when I am in my home office because they ultimately help me be prepared for my time with the physicians I am working with. When reviewing reports for relevant data I can bring to the physicians I work with, I take the time to comb the data for relevant information and work to understand everything that I'm analyzing. Knowing that keeping lines of communication open is important, I don't let email communications go unanswered for more than 24 hours."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
General
26. What are the components of a successful, and effective, presentation as a Medical Science Liaison?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Whether or not you have direct experience now in giving formal presentations, this role as an MSL will be putting you in front of physician stakeholders and presenting data and information on the product or trials your organization is hoping they will utilize. Your interviewer wants to be ensured that you know the qualities of a successful presentation and that you are comfortable given them in this role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
First and foremost, you need to assure your interviewer that you will be comfortable presenting information to medical field leaders, both in-person and virtually. Talk about your ability to present complicated information in an exciting and educational manner. Then you can get into the details on what makes a presentation to physicians and healthcare leaders effective. Some of those components include understanding your audience, using correct medical terminology, being presentable in appearance, and utilizing the art of storytelling.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I believe that the most important part of a presentation is to have a compelling opening and closing. These are the times when the audience is the most engaged and when you should make the boldest statements in your pitch. I have given hundreds of presentations over the course of my career and this approach has never failed me. As a Medical Science Liaison, I've also learned that being brief but effective was also important as the physicians are very pressed for time and appreciate the right amount of info in the right amount of time."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Leadership
27. Tell me about a time when you took charge of a meeting. Was the outcome a positive one?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As you collaborate with key physician leaders in this role as a Medical Science Liaison, you will be expected to take charge and maybe even push back at times to help get your products in the field. Your interviewer would like to know that you have the confidence in speaking up, taking charge, and letting your mind be heard in the company of intimidating leaders.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
Think about a time when you had to step up and take charge of a meeting, no matter if it was a one-on-one meeting or a large group. This example could be a phone meeting, a lunch and learn, or an extensive client presentation. You should clearly describe the situation and discuss why it was important for you to step up and take charge. As you answer, make sure your interviewer walks away knowing that you are comfortable in your ability to speak up and take charge with the KOLs you will be working with within this role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"During my Ph.D. training, I was the vice-president of our school's chapter of Society of Toxicology. During a member meeting, our president had to suddenly miss the meeting due to an emergency and I stepped in and took charge of the agenda that day. I am very comfortable in situations where I have to lead meetings. I always prepared for this situation in case I would have to lead the meeting and was certainly glad I did that day."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Operational
28. As our next MSL, how would you prioritize multiple duties calling at once when they all seem equally important?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The world of a Medical Science Liaison potentially involves working with a large network of physicians and medical leaders on several different products of the organization you are interviewing with. There will be days where your phone will be ringing off the hook, emails are coming in steadily and more things keep popping up hourly and your interviewer needs to be assured that you would join their organization with the ability to prioritize your work and ensure all get handled in a timely fashion.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
When 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! While there are many approaches you can take, it's important you understand what works for you and reiterate that in your interview. You can mention that you are a list maker or you utilize calendar technology, just make sure you emphasize that your method works for you.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I aim to be as effective and efficient as possible and make sure I can use all minutes of a day wisely. I have a few client things going at once most of the time. My experience allows me to quickly prioritize things that are the highest needs and I take care of them swiftly before moving on to other items. One tactic that really helps me is ensuring that I block time on my calendar each day to work through emails and not ever get behind on things there. Physicians expect responses in short order."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Operational
29. As an MSL, you often have to bridge the gap between research and front-line healthcare providers. How do you see yourself as building that bridge in this role?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Medical Science Liaisons have the difficult task of bringing a variety of research and data into the frontline healthcare setting and being that person that bridges the gap between theory and patients relies on strong communication and relationships. In asking this question, your interviewer will ideally be looking to hear that you would take the reins in this role as their next MSL and build trusting and long-lasting work relationships with the physicians that you'd be working closely with.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
As you answer this question and talk about how you promote the turning of data into medical practice, make sure to discuss how you would go about building a trusting relationship with the staff at this organization to ensure that the bridge you build is solid. You want your interviewer to walk away from your time together knowing that you understand how bridging this gap ideally works at their organization.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I know that success as an MSL requires first-hand experience and knowledge of the research and data behind the scenes with my organization and taking this to frontline healthcare providers to implement in clinical practice. If I were fortunate enough to be hired for this role, my first goal on the job would be to start to build great relationships with all of the KOLs I would be working with and to get to understand their needs and frustrations. From there, building relationships with your developers and sales staff and learning every facet of your product line would help me bridge that gap in this role."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Salary
30. If you were to be offered this MSL position, do you have any specific salary expectations?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Medical Science Liaison position salaries can vary greatly from company to company. First, your interviewer wants to ensure that what they are offering for the position meets your needs. With this question, they're also hoping to hear that compensation isn't your primary goal for pursuing a position with their organization.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
To prepare for this interview question, do your homework and find out as close of a range as possible for what the organization you are interviewing offers to their MSLs. Remember this is just the first interview and you haven't been offered the job yet. The first interview is not the time to enter negotiations. Go ahead and give a broad salary range without selling yourself short while also ensuring that you are fair to yourself and your expectations.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"In my current MSL position, my annual salary is $160,000. While I do not want to make a move that would take me backward in this area, compensation is not my motivator for seeking this role with your company. I am more motivated by finding a position that allows me to work in cancer treatments where my true passion lies."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Scenario
31. If you could not make a key physician happy, what would you do?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
No matter what medical subspecialty you are working in as an MSL, you will likely encounter a difficult and hard-to-please physician at some point or another. Your interviewer needs to be assured that you would be willing to do what is necessary to still maintain a great level of service with them, even when it may be very difficult personally.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
It is essential that you can turn most customers around; however, this will not be the case 100% of the time. Your interviewer would like to see that you have the sense to offer a solution while keeping the company's best interest in mind at the same time. Discuss what you would do to make sure a physician's needs were taken care of while keeping in mind that, at times, the individual may be very hard to please. Also, there may be times when client satisfaction cannot be achieved. Talk about how you come to terms with that.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"My first step would be to have the conversation on what I could do to make them happy with the product. I am always open to having these conversations because they could lead to some possible improvements. If what comes of the conversation makes sense and is doable, I would make a decision on who to take the thoughts to within our organization. If the realization was made that the product just simply wouldn't make them happy, I would try to propose some alternative solutions that could work and report them back to my director."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Situational
32. When have you had to think outside of the box to solve a problem?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewer is looking to hire an MSL that will come to their team with the ability to foster innovation and bring new and creative ideas to their department. This requires the willingness to think outside of the box at times and this question allows your interviewer some insight into your willingness and ability to be unique and creative in your thought process on the job.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about a time you had to solve a problem creatively. Your answer doesn't have to be an invention or a tremendous breakthrough you made in your previous role. Any unexpected decision you made will most likely count as a creative solution. Pick a scenario where you were pleased with the outcome.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Last year, I worked with my IT department on utilizing an up-to-date group messaging system for my KOLs to reach me at any time. With some new studies being put out to them, I wanted to be able to answer questions as quickly as possible when on the road, on the weekend, or at home in the evening and with a messaging system. They had this new system set up within a week on my phone, with a great reference guide for all of my KOLs to get set up. I'm still using this today and several of my colleagues have adopted the system as well."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Situational
33. Talk about a time when you had to work closely with someone who had a difficult personality. How did you handle that situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Medical Science Liaisons need to have the ability to work with strong, dominant, and sometimes bullheaded personalities. These personalities can be found both in the internal stakeholders they work closely with and with the external key medical experts they work alongside. Your interviewer wants to know how well you work with others despite a difference in personality. Your ability to adapt to various people, regardless of a positive personality match, shows that you are a mature and professional MSD, even when factors are not entirely ideal.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
Avoid extreme responses that include speaking negatively of others or naming people. Also, avoid telling the interviewer that you get along with everyone all the time. Most interviewers will interpret a cliche response like that as dodging the question. Focus on when your work personality or style was different from another person, but perhaps you still had to collaborate together. Discuss, in a positive tone, how you made it work!
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, I have a team member who will sometimes scoff at other co-workers' ideas in meetings. To help creative spark, I knew I could not let this behavior continue. I approached this person to discuss our company culture and how his behavior disrupted the creative and innovative environment we always seek. It turned out that he did not want to work in our division as he felt the projects were too 'junior' for his experience. He ended up requesting and receiving a transfer. By initiating an open conversation with this person, we were able to uncover his need. We also met the needs of our team by protecting the positive culture we had worked so hard to create."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Situational
34. Tell me about a time when your integrity was challenged. How did you handle it?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As an upstanding Medical Science Liaison, you must have a strong sense of morals and clinical ethics to always focus on what is best for patient care. Your interviewer needs to be assured that your moral compass is strong and that your decisions are made with integrity if they are to hire you to join their organization.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
Honesty and integrity are key traits to possess as a successful MSL. Prior to your interview, think back to a time when your integrity was challenged on the job. Clearly describe the situation, your thought process, and the action you took to ensure you handled the situation with integrity. If you are a new grad, think of a time when your honesty was challenged and you made the right choice in the end.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"In my first position out of my Ph.D. program, I had to face a difficult decision where a colleague, who had become a good friend, was utilizing company property in an unethical manner. Knowing that our friendship could be jeopardized, I did the right thing and decided to report the behavior to our director. Prior to doing so, I did give him the heads up that I was going to report this. He completely understood and asked if he could approach our director to report the misuse first. While he did have some harsh consequences, I'm very happy with how the situation played out."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
Situational
35. Talk about a time there was a serious conflict on a team that you collaborated with. How did you resolve it?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a Medical Science Liaison, you will be collaborating closely with physicians and internal staff at your employer and you will often be bridging the gap between the company and front line physicians. There will be times when you have to manage conflict with those that you are collaborating with and your interviewer needs to be assured that you can manage conflicts in a healthy and productive manner when they arise.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
How to Answer
When cooperating with people from different work backgrounds and various work styles in this MSL role, conflict is inevitable. Prior to your interview, try to think of an example of when a team you were a part of experienced a conflict. Be sure to highlight how you skillfully handled the conflict issue and reiterate to your interviewer that you will be the ultimate diplomat as their next MSL.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"One of the employees on my current team was due to present at an industry conference, but he fell behind and couldn't put everything together in time. Everyone on our team was disappointed in his lack of commitment, and many people were upset with him. I was not scheduled to present, but I stepped in to cover for him. This situation meant I had to rearrange my schedule, cancel meetings and postpone a lunch event, but my company needed this presentation to be successful. I will always go above and beyond for my team, even when it isn't the most convenient."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 30th, 2022