Do you prefer to work by yourself or with a group?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
How to Answer
What to Avoid
Answer Example
Community Answers

Traditional medical device sales roles require heavy daily travel, usually without a colleague. Some people thrive in these conditions as it allows for more flexibility and variation day to day, while others miss the camaraderie of seeing the same people every day. This is something that is inherently personal and that often cannot be gleaned without lived experience. When an interviewer asks this question, they are simply ensuring that you will be capable of working independently as necessary and will not leave the company due to the basic duties of the role.

This can become a trick question quite quickly so be sure to walk the middle ground with your answer. As mentioned previously, the interviewer is working to ensure that you are a cultural fit with these behavioral questions. With your answer to this question, you need to be able to make it clear that while you do enjoy working with others, you are more than capable of working independently and without supervision!

Avoid veering too far to either side of this question!

By implying that you really prefer to work in solitude, it can make it sound like you don't work well with others. No one wants someone they can't work with on their team!

By implying that you'd much rather have someone with you, it may seem like you either don't understand the requirements of the job or that you will likely suffer burnout from being in a work environment that does not best suit you.

"I work really well on my own but I think I work best when I have peers or colleagues that I can contact for questions and support when needed. I love the flexibility and the ability to focus that you get while working independently but I think maintaining those relationships of being someone's 'go-to' and being able to ask for help is what makes a team successful in the long run."

Anonymous Answer

"I feel that I am able to successfully work independently, however, I do feel that it is important to be a part of a team and be able to rely on coworkers to support me and help with tasks as needed. I would say I am efficient at working independently as well as being a reliable team member."