29 Medical Writer Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Medical Writer 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. What experience do you have with including images in your writing?
How to Answer
Often times in Medical Writing, images are included in the final product to enhance the writing in some way whether it is data related or related to procedure. This question provides the interviewer with some understanding around your formatting skills and ability to match relevant imagery with the text.Give specific examples if you have some.
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
Answer Example
"Typically, a significant graph or other data driven image is added, but I like adding images of the procedure or medical device when appropriate and available. Relevant (and not too many) images without doubt add value to the writing."
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
2. How have personal connections with colleagues supported your success at work?
How to Answer
This question helps the interviewer understand how influential work relationships can be in your overall success as well as how well you work with others. When preparing a response to this question, you can reference how trust and camaraderie among colleagues foster a positive work environment that encourages employees to perform at their best. In this case, you will want to provide a specific example.
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
Answer Example
"I believe that trust and positive relationships among colleagues foster a more enjoyable work environment where employees, myself included, feel more encouraged to do their best. Every time I start a new position, or if we have a new member join our team, I make a point to get to know each person with which I'll be working. It's important to feel that we're able to go to one another with a question or a challenge so we can problem-solve and support each other as a team. For example, I used to manage the tour program at my previous organization. At first, I did all of the tours myself, because I didn't know my colleagues well enough to feel comfortable asking them to help me with such a big task. Eventually, I wasn't able to accept all of the tours that were requested, because so many were coming in at once. At this point, I had strong relationships with several people around my office and finally asked for help. Just from those connections and that willingness to help out, we were able to accept all of the requests we'd received without significantly impacting anyone's schedule. I ended up having people reach out and ask me if they could give a tour, because they'd heard of how much fun they were!"
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
3. In what sort of working conditions do you thrive?
How to Answer
The interviewer is asking this question to better understand where and how you get your best work done. When preparing for this question, be sure to do as much research as you can on the organization to gain a better understanding of the overall environment. Also, look carefully at the job description for any language around working conditions or physical requirements, which are often listed at the bottom. Be truthful in your response to this question, because you do not want to offer false expectations or set yourself up to work in an environment that doesn't suit you.
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
Answer Example
"I enjoy having some flexibility in my day, either with my location or being able to sit or stand and move around a bit. One thing I love about my career is that I can be mobile with work if needed, so I'm not entirely bound to one specific environment. For instance, sometimes I enjoy working in a perfectly quiet space, and other times I like to pack up and move somewhere a bit more lively so I can carry that energy into my writing."
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
4. Tell us about a time you had to think outside the box at work.
How to Answer
Sometimes, writing requires thinking outside the box. Your interviewer is interested in how you step outside of normalcy - or of what is expected - and your success in doing so. When preparing a response to this question, you have flexibility to use an example outside of the career - just make sure that you're able to draw valuable connections to the current position.
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
Answer Example
"In a previous position, I had some materials that needed to be distributed to my team by a certain date, but I hadn't received final approval on the content until the day before. After I finalized each of the materials, I found that we were unexpectedly low on paper from a large print job by a colleague that morning. So, I started exploring different options and stock closets to see what paper we had available on short notice. I found several reams of multicolored paper, and I decided to take a few of each to color-code the printed materials and bring some brightness to our meeting. I made the pivot appear purely intentional, and the team was pleasantly surprised to see some fun, functional colors in the meeting."
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
5. Aside from writing, in what area of communication are you strongest?
How to Answer
Employers generally value strong communication across the board, so your interviewer is interested in better understanding the extent of your non-written communication skills. Don't be afraid to ask others for feedback - you might be surprised to learn that others perceive certain aspects of your communication to be particularly strong.
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
Answer Example
"I believe that listening is my strongest area of communication. I have always thought that listening is an underrated component of communication, even though it supports better understanding, greater trust, and more authentic relationships."
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
6. What do you enjoy about writing?
How to Answer
Another variation of this question might ask what motivates you in writing. Your interviewer is interested in what keeps you writing and engaged. You have a lot of freedom and flexibility to be creative with this question, just be sure to make your response personal and authentic.
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
Answer Example
"There are a few layers to my love for writing. I really enjoy communicating and connecting with others, and writing is an excellent tool to connect with a wide audience in a way that I just can't do verbally. I also thrive in environments that allow me to express creativity, and writing provides me with an opportunity to feel creative - even when the content is pretty straightforward. Of course, there's also the ability to write virtually anytime, anywhere. So many professions have zero opportunity to take work elsewhere, so I always appreciate how mobile writing can often be."
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
7. How do you ensure quality in your writing?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to ensure that you are mindful of the importance of quality assurance with the content you produce and that you have measures in place to consistently produce high quality work with minimal error. When preparing a response for a question like this, be sure to tier it out based on what might be available. For example, your team might have colleagues available to review your writing or even a team dedicated to supporting writers.
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
Answer Example
"Quality in writing is incredibly important, especially in medical writing. I take a number of steps throughout the writing process to ensure that I produce quality content and exceed standards. It's so important for writing to get a fresh set of eyes, whether it's only just getting started or in the final stages. So, I often take small breaks when I reach a natural stopping point, and I'll physically step away from my desk. Even a few minutes away can help me return to my computer and spot errors or think of new ideas. I incorporate this throughout my writing process so I don't overwhelm myself with the first draft review. At that point, I'll usually print out my work and take it to a quiet place to read through with a pencil and a highlighter. Once I feel like I've sufficiently edited my work, I love getting an opportunity to pass it through a colleague's hands for anything I might've missed. I have found my process to be thorough and consistent enough to continue to produce quality work every time I submit."
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
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8. How do you handle criticism in the workplace?
How to Answer
This question helps the interviewer understand how you parse out different types of criticism as well as how professionally you respond. Employers want their employees to be coachable, so you want to demonstrate that you are eager to continuously learn and develop. You might also encounter forms of criticism that do not support your development; consider how you might respond professionally to this sort of criticism. If you have examples to share, then be sure to run them by an objective individual before you share them in the interview to ensure that you present the example in the way you intend to.
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
Answer Example
"I highly value criticism and feedback on my work and performance, because I believe that it helps develop me into a better, more skilled professional. I also believe that some forms of criticism are more helpful than others. For example, when someone offers constructive criticism, I take that feedback to heart, ask follow-up questions, and work on developing that particular thing. When the criticism is not coming from a constructive, supportive place, then I thank the person for sharing, process that feedback, and let them know that I will reach out for any further guidance or suggestions on the issue at hand. I always want to remain professional in the workplace regardless of the circumstances."
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
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9. What made you choose medical writing as a career path?
How to Answer
Interviewers are often curious what motivates candidates in their field, so don't overthink a question like this. When thinking about what initially motivated you, just be sure to frame your response in a way that draws you in to this path rather than pushing away from another path. So, if you are really interested in medicine but don't want to interact with patients, then consider how you can respond to focus more on investing in one rather than distancing from the other.
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
Answer Example
"For as long as I can remember, I have always been passionate about finding solutions to complex challenges - especially in regards to medicine. Over the years, I've found that I do my best work and make greater contributions behind the scenes. In college, my favorite assignments were always the research papers. I had so much fun writing that it didn't even feel like work, and the importance of the content made it all the more rewarding. One day in junior year, I met a professor for office hours and had mentioned that I wanted to find a way to continue getting to write even in my career after college. She suggested I consider medical writing if I hadn't already, and she encouraged me to attend the Medical Writing & Communication Conference later that year. After I went to the conference, I was sold! I'm grateful to now have a career that balances my personal interests with my professional goals."
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
10. What have you done to further your own professional development in the past 5 years?
How to Answer
The interviewer is asking this question to determine if you are driven and motivated to progressing yourself professionally. Tell the interviewer about any certifications, career-related conferences, leadership workshops, or higher education. This is a great opportunity to show how well you understand the professional landscape of your profession with specific titles of conferences and trainings. If you haven't attended many conferences or workshops, then consider how you have gone above-and-beyond in your work to learn from others. You might have a mentor, or maybe you've briefly stepped away from your career to try a new job in the hopes of gaining a new skillset that will compliment your profession.
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
Answer Example
"I have found it increasingly important to engage with and learn from other industry professionals, so I joined the American Medical Writers Association and have been attending the annual Medical Writing & Communication Conference for the last 3 years. I have learned so much about the profession and the many facets of the industry from attending these conferences. As a member of the association, I'm also regularly up-to-date on new trainings and summits to enhance my skills."
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
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11. What is your greatest weakness? What are you doing to improve it?
How to Answer
You want to be honest when answering a question about your greatest weakness, and you want to be mindful of what truth you are sharing. You might know that your greatest weakness is realistically snoozing your alarm each morning, but that isn't an answer you want to share. Instead, consider a weakness that doesn't paint you in a light that will deem you unfit for the position. You might also consider a weakness that in some cases might be seen as very relatable to others or even perceived as a strength to some. Be sure you have an action plan in place for improving on this weakness as well.
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
Answer Example
"My greatest weakness is getting heavily absorbed in my work. I love what I do, and sometimes I have difficulty leaving work at work and balancing out things and time for myself outside of work. Over the last year, I have been working more on incorporating routine self-checks, focusing on stress-relieving activities, and establishing boundaries so I don't find myself researching a project as bedtime reading! I've also partnered with a couple of co-workers to hold ourselves accountable to reaching each of our personal goals."
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
12. What is your greatest strength?
How to Answer
This can be a difficult question to answer - we are our own toughest critics - and the interviewers know it! Be sure to prepare for this question in advance so you don't find yourself sitting in silence searching for an answer during the interview. Make sure that the answer you share is relevant in some way, or find a way to explain it to appear relevant. If you have trouble thinking of a good response, then think back to past performance reviews or kudos you have received from your co-workers. You may also ask colleagues or friends for input. When it comes time to share, be confident in your delivery!
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
Answer Example
"I would say that my greatest strength is adaptability. I am adaptable in my communication style, in how I support others, and in my prioritization of tasks. I'm able to remain confident and positive when things change, even when it is a difficult or unexpected pivot."
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
13. Do you have any questions for us?
How to Answer
Take advantage of this question! This is a great opportunity to show your interviewer that you are genuinely interested in the position, and it's a good time to show off some of your research about the company! It is also a chance for your to ask about the hiring timeline, as this will help you with your own timeline for following-up. Prepare a list of around 3 questions in advance and bring them to the interview. You can also take notes throughout the interview to ask targeted questions pertaining to something you discussed; this will impress your interviewer and show that you were listening.
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
Answer Example
"I understand that you have recently hired a new Executive Director. In what ways have you felt the impact of new leadership in this department specifically, and what does the organization's strategic vision look like over the next several years?"
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
14. What do you know about our organization, and what makes you want to work with us?
How to Answer
With any job interview, it is crucial to understand the organization to which you are applying as well as what motivates you to work there. Visit the organization's website to learn key information such as studies they've been involved in, specialties, and community impact. Knowing how the organization started, who started the organization, mission statement, vision statement, and core values will likely impress the interviewer. Consider looking for any headlines they have made recently for additional context.
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
Answer Example
"I have been following this organization and its ongoing evolution for the last 7 years. Over the course of the last several years, I've seen you continue to make incredible strides in our field and lead by example. In addition to the work you do, I understand that you are heavily involved in your local community and find ways to partner, uplift, and support others in new and creative ways. I am extremely inspired by your model and would love to bring my skills and passion to contribute to the team."
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
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15. How do you manage your time when under pressure?
How to Answer
As a medical writer, you might have more than one large project on your plate at once, which can get stressful. Since this is a common reality in the profession, your interviewer is looking to make sure you are prepared and equipped to navigate that pressure while keeping things moving. Think about time management, organization, and prioritization techniques you employ when you are stressed. If you can explain with an example, then use one!
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
Answer Example
"As a preventative measure, I always try to build out my time management and organization techniques in anticipation of being under pressure. Things like writer's fatigue and writer's block can make it even harder to power through big projects, so I have a few simple solutions to help me work through them quickly and efficiently. When I'm really feeling the stress build up, I'll briefly step away from my desk, whether to take a walk around the block or even simply go get water or make tea. When I'm back, I'll set a short timer - 5 to 10 minutes - and do a brain dump. Usually, that means that I'm either writing down all of the things I'm thinking of and aware need to happen, or I might be doodling a visual of what needs to get done or what I need to write. I don't stop to process during this time, I just get it all out on paper. When the timer is up, I take a moment to look over what I've jotted down. Seeing it all on paper helps me to visually organize, prioritize, and strategize in a way that I can't do all in my head. This helps me to see which elements I'm missing as well as where I can consolidate my wor to save time. Sometimes, it feels like stopping for 5 to 10 minutes is impossible, but it always helps me manage my time and tasks significantly better overall!"
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
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16. Have you authored anything that has been published?
How to Answer
This question allows your interviewer to see how many publications you might have, and it also opens the door for them to look into your writing skills and styles. So, when answering this question be sure to provide examples of your best accomplishments. This particular question is broad, but you should expect some version of it during a Medical Writer position interview.
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
Answer Example
"I've authored several scientific manuscripts that have been published in peer review journals (you can be specific depending on time and what the specific role is related to). Additionally, a lot of my work has been published internally in newsletters, training manuals, and reports."
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
17. Share an experience where you contributed to the team.
How to Answer
This question allows for some creativity in your response since it's open ended. Make sure that your answer goes beyond the basic facts of the experience you share. If you have helpful details or metrics, then use them to demonstrate that our contribution made a real impact, even if what you did wasn't all that big. This is also a chance to highlight anything that hasn't been discussed yet in regards to your teamwork - whether it becollaboration, motivation, and so on.
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
Answer Example
"I had the opportunity to go for a weeklong Medical Wiring training. Not only was it fascinating and I learned tons, but when I returned, I was able to share all of my knowledge and course materials with colleagues which was a great team building experience. Plus, our writing improved."
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
18. Have you had to interview SME's for any of your writing and if not, how would you go about it?
How to Answer
Depending on your role, you might be tasked with a writing assignment where getting information including direct quotes from a SME would enhance the article. The interviewer wants to make sure you are comfortable with this task. So, even if you might not have had this experience yet, be sure to indicate your preparedness and excitement for the task. You can also use other traits and experience to support your response.
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
Answer Example
"I love when this happens. It's interesting to get a completely different perspective compared to the typical research that I do. Before the interview, I do some research to make sure I understand the person and the topic in order to prepare relevant questions. Additionally, I am on time and stick to the time allowed for the interview to be respectful."
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
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19. In the scenario where your boss asks you to edit a manuscript, what is your approach?
How to Answer
Editing is a common task as a Medical Writer. The interviewer is primarily interested in your process both as an editor and also as a team-player. When responding to this question, you can also elaborate on your collaboration and communication skill.
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
Answer Example
"In my experience, people have different expectations when it comes to editing so I would immediately ask what types of edits are expected. I've been requested to do simple grammar edits as well as extensive edits and comments to make the science easier to understand for the reader. Depending on the expectation, my approach will vary."
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
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20. What would you do if a colleague asked you to manipulate data and/or documentation?
How to Answer
It is never acceptable to manipulate data, so the interviewer is likely interested in a couple of things: 1) whether or not you lead with integrity and denounce the manipulation of data and documents, and 2) how you respond to a complex scenario involving ethics and legal issues. When responding to this question, be sure to clearly state your position on data integrity.
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
Answer Example
"I have never manipulated data nor is there a time when it would be considered acceptable. Data integrity is important to me and the field as a whole. Good science comes from good, honest data."
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
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21. What is your experience in the medical and scientific research realm?
How to Answer
As a Medical Writer, you will likely have a slightly different career path compared to your colleagues. Medical Writers have a variety of experiences. In this question, the interviewer is interested in your experiences to see if you are a good fit for the position. Be honest and if you have relevant experience for the position, talk about that.
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
Answer Example
"I have written scientific manuscripts to share with other scientists the viral research my team completed. Moreover, I worked at a medical device company for over 5 years as a Technical Writer. In that position, I authored training manuals, SOPs, Recipes, and Investigations."
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
22. Are you familiar with LEAN Writing?
How to Answer
Your interviewer will likely ask a range of knowledge-based questions. In this case, the question is getting at the type of vocabulary you have in regards to the position. The interviewer is also interested in how you describe the type of writing and what it means to you as a writer.
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
Answer Example
"Technical writing including scientific and medical writing should be lean, meaning it should be direct without ideas, but instead, facts. Repetition and unnecessary words should be avoided."
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
23. Give an example of the types of metadata and/or data analysis you are familiar with and have used in previous positions.
How to Answer
Your interviewer will likely ask a range of experience- and knowledge-based questions. You might find hints regarding what topics they'll cover when you scour the job description, so be sure to have it on hand during your preparation. In this case, the interviewer is referencing your experience with large data sets, which are quite common. So, even if you might not have considerable knowledge or experience with data sets in the context of this particular position, you should be able to demonstrate how to handle data and how to incorporate it into your writing.
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
Answer Example
"I have experience using multiple (name them) types of software completing statistical analysis when given raw data and subsequently incorporating it into the manuscript to highlight the findings of research."
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
24. What is your approach to citation? What tools are you familiar with?
How to Answer
Some questions might help guide you to an answer, like this one adding on the question regarding tools. Be sure to listen to the full question before you start forming a response in your head so you don't miss key information and take your answer in another direction. In this case, the interviewer is interested in whether or not you are familiar with software that makes citations less cumbersome and save time. If you have examples, then be specific.
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
Answer Example
"Nowadays, I mostly use Mendeley since I can sign in on my desktop or use the website directly from any computer and sign into my account where I have a saved library of journal articles that can be added to a reference page in several different citation styles (i.e.... AMA, MLA, or APA)."
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
25. Give an example of how you've learned from a mistake that has enhanced your overall performance?
How to Answer
You'll likely be asked a range of experience-based questions, so be sure to take notes on highlights from your resume for questions like this one. You want to be able to reflect on an answer fairly quickly without having to pause and think for too long. In this case, the interviewer wants to understand how you respond and react to mistakes or errors.We all make mistakes, but learning from them and being able to make your work better takes certain characteristics and skills. You can give a specific example or speak in more general terms.
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
Answer Example
"When I first starting working in the field of Medical Writing, I jumped directly into the research and writing without much discussion with colleagues and/or other stakeholders. I learned very quickly that this approach led to misunderstanding and misalignment on expectations and goals; leading to more work in the long run. Therefore, I implemented more communication into my process."
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
26. What motivates you to be detail oriented?
How to Answer
The interviewer anticipates that you will already be highly detail-oriented given the profession. So, when you prepare a response to this question, focus most of the response on your motivation and share briefly how it shows up for you. Medical Writers must pay attention to detail since the position is all about communicating accurate and often times technical information.
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
Answer Example
"I have seen the harm in not paying close attention to detail. It can be devastating to the customer and the company. I am motivated by the patient (client) first core value. When things are busy and distracting, I sometimes utilize headphones to keep me focused on the task at hand."
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
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27. Describe your experience with writing a stand operating procedure (SOP).
How to Answer
You will likely be asked a variety of experience- and knowledge-based questions such as this one. Depending on the specific environment, you may also be tasked with actually writing an SOP or manual if the associated lab implements a new procedure or updates an existing one. This question is confirming that you either have experience or feel comfortable with such a task.
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
Answer Example
"I designed, optimized, and validated a new DNA extraction assay to be utilized on several downstream applications. This required not only careful record keeping of preliminary protocols and data, but also the final SOP once optimized."
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
28. When researching for your writing, how do you determine what is relevant?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to make sure you know how to get the best information for the specific writing at hand. Your answer can be general while also including some specific websites, journals, and so on. You have some room for creativity with this question, just try to also demonstrate that you are familiar with reputable sources. If you have a relevant example from your own experience, then use it!
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
Answer Example
"The last thing I published was a manuscript comparing different diagnostic assays. To obtain the relevant research, I searched PubMed for related articles regarding the particular assay. I wanted to show how other scientists used the assay successfully in addition to learning all of the assays limitations."
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
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29. What is your writing process?
How to Answer
This question allows for some creativity. The point is to ensure you actually have a process, but also to get an idea of how you think and whether you will be a good fit for the environment. If you aren't sure of your process or don't know how to explain it, then document your steps next time you prepare to write. This will help you get a better idea of your process as well as the order in which you do things.
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
Answer Example
"Before I start writing, I like to meet with the appropriate stakeholders to get a better idea of expectations for the piece, then do some relevant research regarding topic, then start to put ideas in writing."
Written by Clara Canon on October 19th, 2020
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