35 Pharmacist Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Pharmacist interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 15 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. Tell me about your leadership experience.
How to Answer
A question about leadership is a great way to discuss your leadership roles or projects as well as a way to inquire about leadership opportunities within this company or location. Specific leadership examples, including projects, committees, or initiatives are important to highlight here. You want to make sure to discuss some areas where you have identified a problem and taken the initiative to solve it. Discussing solving issues as well as the value of teamwork are key areas to highlight.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 13th, 2024
Answer Example
"Although I have not had a specific pharmacist leadership role, I have served as President of ____, and team lead for the ____ project. For this project, I identified our objectives, ran monthly meetings with ____, and set a goal of ____ within ____ months. At our last meeting, we had achieved 85% of that goal with a planned full completion by next month. Can you share what leadership opportunities are possible within this company?"
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 13th, 2024
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2. How familiar are you with this company?
How to Answer
There is a difference between a person looking for any job and a person looking for this open position. You want to clearly be able to state why this individual position and company appeals to you. This question sounds easy, but can be difficult to answer well. Each applicant should do a deep dive into the company and position to understand key items in their history, quality measures, success of their pharmacy, safety measures, areas of growth, and mission and values. You want to do some homework not only to determine if this is a good fit for you but also to ask the potential employer about some of these items for your own evaluation of the role.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 12th, 2024
Answer Example
"When I first saw this open position, I looked further into this history of ___ and discovered ____. I was impressed with ____ and saw you had earned _____. I feel that your expansion into ____ would offer further opportunities to ___. I would love to be a part of this team that is so successful in not only expansion but safety and quality. What do you feel are future areas of growth for your company?"
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 12th, 2024
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3. What types of things do you like to do in your spare time?
How to Answer
This can feel like a tricky question to answer, but this can be another opportunity to share your personality and why you would be a great fit for the team. You are not legally required to share anything about your physical abilities, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, health problems, political positions, or anything considered private and personal. You may share those items if you wish, but this question is not designed to accidentally pull information out of you. The employer just simply wants to get to know you as a person. The best answers are truthful and lighthearted. You can speak on hobbies, travel, or items that you enjoy.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 12th, 2024
Answer Example
"I am glad you asked because I love to talk about food festivals. I am an amateur baker and love to travel to food festivals as much as possible. My goal is to hit at least one festival in each state. So far I have been to 12 states."
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 12th, 2024
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4. How do you build relationships when you are new to a role?
How to Answer
It can be daunting to be the new person at work, especially when you are entering into an established team. If the employer is taking this question, likely there may be some team dynamics they are screening for or have had issues in the past with employees who were not able to build effective relationships. It is important to recognize that you are aware you will need to work well with the current team and are happy to learn from those who have been there for a while. You want to remark specifically about building relationships. You can mention that you like to make sure you meet with each team member one-on-one, or that you try to help out anyone who is running behind. You want to pull your weight and help everyone when needed for the sake of the patient.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 12th, 2024
Answer Example
"This is so important as a new person joining the team. I build relationships by first giving and then earning their respect. I like to get to know my coworkers naturally and I am confident my personality can work with almost anyone. A good teamwork atmosphere at work is of utmost importance to me."
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 12th, 2024
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5. What is your timeline for accepting a position?
How to Answer
If you are asked this question, the employer is gauging your timeline against theirs. They may be analyzing your flexibility if their first choice candidate doesn't work out, or they may know of future vacancies that are not posted yet. They may be simply asking because they know they will be interviewing for three more weeks and want to see if you will still be a candidate at that time. This question should not be taken personally, healthcare is a business and the employer is keeping the business running. The best answer is to show flexibility and let the employer know you are interviewing other places. This shows you are in demand, but still open to waiting a little bit for the right offer.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 12th, 2024
Answer Example
"I am currently interviewing at a couple of other places, and I hope to make a move within the next few months. I am, however, open to waiting for the right position. The right fit is more important to me than finding another position quickly. I like my current position and can be flexible on the start date."
Written by Heather Douglass
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6. What is the last book you read? Tell me about it.
How to Answer
If you are not a reader, this question may take you off guard, so preparation is key. If you are keeping certifications up to date, you can reference re-certification material. Or you may state that you generally scan key websites daily in your specialty area (Journal of Clinical Oncology, NABP, etc). The employer may just want to get to know you better. Do not feel required to share personal reading that you feel may compromise your candidacy due to colorful or potentially controversial material. If you can pull from a professional example that is always a correct answer. It doesn't have to be a hardcover book, you can reference other reading material that you enjoy.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 12th, 2024
Answer Example
My renewal for board certification is approaching, so I have been consumed in review material in ____. I believe the last module I completed was _____. This module was interesting due to the update of newer studies in the area of _____. I had not read all clinical trials in one place before so this perspective was very helpful in the area of _____ that I rarely see.
Or
I like to read historical fiction, and have just completed a book about Abraham Lincoln. It was written from the perspective of his wife's family, which was unique.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 12th, 2024
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7. What are your salary expectations?
How to Answer
Salary negotiations can be very stressful. This is not a salary negotiation question. This is dipping a toe in the water to find out if you and the employer are in the same ballpark. To prepare for salary discussions, you want to see what the salary range was posted for the position. You also want to do online searches for available salary information. Some state employee salary information is public and can be found in your area. The best approach is to give a range, including a salary higher than what you currently have, but within the posted range of the position.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 12th, 2024
1st Answer Example
"I saw the posted range is between $120,000 and 140,000. This is within my goal salary."
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 12th, 2024
2nd Answer Example
"I was making slightly more than the posted range, do you have flexibility on the posted range?"
Written by Samantha Brown on February 15th, 2024
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8. Tell me about a time when you had too many things to do and you were required to prioritize your tasks.
How to Answer
This is the definition of a pharmacist in many different positions. The key is to communicate a logical process that shows you can multitask without bringing the workflow to a stop. Some positions are designed for people who do one task at a time, other positions are for pharmacists who have multiple balls in the air at any one time. You want to understand which you are and be able to speak truthfully about how you function in a multi-task situation, even if it is not your first preference for a working environment. You may say you like to complete critical tasks first and then move to lower-priority tasks. Or you may say you keep notes on all the different calls out to providers so that you are ready for each call as it comes in.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 12th, 2024
Answer Example
"This can be a regular occurrence at my current job. I make sure the most critical items are done first, such as critical care drips, then I move to urgent antibiotics, then finish with batch checking."
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 12th, 2024
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9. How do you stay organized?
How to Answer
When a question like this is asked, that is a hint to you that this position will require multi-tasking regularly. This would appear to be a key function of this role you are interviewing for. It is helpful to be familiar with your own processes and routines and be able to speak to them in the interview with specifics. Prioritization, scanning your next-day assignments the evening ahead, or asking for a hand-off from the person the day prior are a few examples of items to weave throughout your answer. You can also refer to certain tools you may use, daily reports, phone reminders, etc that you regularly find helpful in this role.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 13th, 2024
Answer Example
"I review the assignments the day before and ask for a handoff when I am moving into a different area. I arrive 15 minutes early to review my task list and continuously reprioritize throughout the day as new situations arise. I like to use my EPIC task list to keep me up to date on any changes."
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 13th, 2024
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10. How do you deal with stress at work?
How to Answer
The hiring manager is aware that stress at work is unavoidable. Learning how you cope with individual challenges at work and the day-to-day stress of the position is important to determine if you have what it takes to succeed in this role. This answer can be pulled from any previous work experience, not just pharmacy. I would suggest bringing real-life examples into your answer. The key here is not to pretend stress doesn't exist, or that you aren't affected by it, but to specifically answer how you don't let stress affect your work performance with helpful coping mechanisms.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 12th, 2024
Answer Example
"Good question. I have worked at the third busiest store in the district/the busiest emergency room/a demanding home infusion business for ___ years/months. I found that I can handle stressful situations best when I recognize I am trying to help people in their most challenging moments. This gives me a different perspective and allows me to not live in the emotion of the moment. I also journal and run regularly on my days off."
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 12th, 2024
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11. Do you have any questions for us?
How to Answer
This is a natural way to transition into your part of the interview to ask questions. If the employer doesn't open the door for you to ask questions, you want to ask them if you could ask a few questions. Having a list of at least 5-20 questions ready is expected for almost any pharmacist job interview. There are many questions you can ask and within many categories. Role-specific questions, salary and compensation, benefits, scheduling, PTO allowances, areas of expansion and concern, accreditation results, upcoming leadership or staffing changes, organization flowchart, relationships between staff, department goals, etc.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 13th, 2024
Answer Example
"Do you see any downsizing in the future? What is your management philosophy? What are the department goals for the next year? How does the scheduling work? How are the holidays staffed? What are some of the current leadership projects? How is the department morale? How do the pharmacists and technicians get along? What safety metrics do you track each month?"
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 13th, 2024
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12. What is the most important skill you would bring to this role?
How to Answer
This would be one of the biggest opportunities to sell yourself. You want to highlight areas of strength that you have been told in prior evaluations, and what unique traits you have that can help them succeed. Ideally, this question comes after you have had a chance to ask about ongoing projects or areas of concern for the department. Discuss some of those issues they are currently having with ideas on how you can help with those items, or mention a general willingness to assist with department goals. The employer can already read your resume and is aware of your years of experience. You want to offer something meaningful that may be on your resume, but bring it to life as a strength you offer over other candidates.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 13th, 2024
Answer Example
"I worked as a technician for four years before becoming a pharmacist and am very comfortable directing many different areas of the pharmacy. I can multitask well and would be comfortable running the triage position. I have filled in almost every role in the pharmacy and am confident I can handle any challenge that comes my way. The most important skill I can bring is an ability to understand the critical processes and multitask in order to keep the pharmacy running safely and efficiently."
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 13th, 2024
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13. What experience do you have working in ambulatory care?
How to Answer
This is an example of a specific and unique question that is role-specific. If you are interviewing for a specialized role like this one, you want to speak specifically on what experience you have in a specialty area, this may include pharmacy school rotations if a new graduate, and why your skills match this unique role. This question is not designed to ask about your skills as a general pharmacist, it is to highlight your specialty training and specific qualifications within a defined scope.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 13th, 2024
Answer Example
"I have completed three pharmacy school rotations as well as two months in my PGY1 residency. My PGY2 ambulatory care residency prepared me for this position by running our own anticoagulation clinic for the entire year of the program. I have recently received my board certification in ambulatory care pharmacy as well as becoming a licensed provider within the state of _____. Overall I have almost 18 months of experience specifically in an anticoagulation clinic."
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 13th, 2024
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14. Can you tell me about a time when you were faced with an ethical dilemma and how did you handle it?
How to Answer
This is a behavioral type of interviewing question. The interviewer wants to see how you have behaved in the past as the best indicator of how you will behave in the future. You want to identify a specific scenario and briefly describe it. Ethical dilemmas can be complex and the key is to answer this question within 2-3 minutes. You want to describe how you became aware of this situation, how you determined the correct course of action, and how you resolved this dilemma. You do not need to get into deep detail or share information that would compromise anyone else by name.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 13th, 2024
Answer Example
"In my first position, a coworker signed off an expiration date checking checklist for several months in a row without actually completing the task. I became aware of it when they asked me why I was spending so much time on my section. They volunteered the information and said they only check it about once a quarter and look for dates three months in advance. I mentioned that medications may rotate in that they miss, and they said it wasn't necessary. I became concerned about patient safety and mentioned it to my manager. This coworker was upset with me and made working a little complicated for a few months, but the coworker eventually left the company."
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 13th, 2024
15. How would you describe your past working relationships with your manager?
How to Answer
The employer is searching for any red flags that may exist from your last role and anything that might happen in the future. You want to answer this honestly and convey your desire for a productive working environment. This is a time you can advocate for yourself and bring in examples of prior work evaluations. A strong employee-manager relationship will almost always lead to good outcomes with the employee, and a negative one will almost always lead to a separation for either the manager or employee. The employer wants to catch this early if there is a potential issue.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 13th, 2024
Answer Example
"My manager and I had a very positive and collaborative working relationship. We met regularly and I really enjoyed getting consistent feedback. I had a good understanding of when and why something needed to be changed. I feel that the employee should make sure to be open and receptive to feedback, then both the employee and employer will reach their own goals. I understand there are reasons for changes and why we can't change certain processes but I appreciate my manager working as a liaison and on my behalf."
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 15th, 2024
16. Why are you interested in leaving your current position?
How to Answer
This is a frequent and obvious question for any position other than one straight out of school or residency where you must find a starting position. Honesty is the best course of action here since this answer can influence other questions, however, you don't want to emphasize personality conflicts if they were a reason for leaving. Some possible areas to discuss are lack of growth opportunities, downsizing, spouse/partner moving, and ethical concerns. In the situation where you love your current job but you saw an opportunity for a dream job you couldn't pass up, it is best to state that honestly and clearly.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 13th, 2024
1st Answer Example
"My current role is a good position, however, I would like to advance my career into a specialist role. I intentionally took my current role to gain experience and I have volunteered for every extra opportunity possible. I have reached the peak of what this position can be and would like a new challenge in my specialty area. My employer has been trying to expand into this area, however consistent budget cuts have eliminated the advancement each time. My boss is aware of my desire for advancement and would understand if I moved to another opportunity."
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 13th, 2024
2nd Answer Example
"I enjoy my current position and would not be interviewing unless a position like this came along. My boss is aware I am interviewing and is supportive if the opportunity works out. This is the type of position I have wanted my entire career."
Written by Samantha Brown on February 15th, 2024
17. Can you describe what you think a typical day in this role would be?
How to Answer
This can be a hard question, but a little preparation will help you give a polished answer. This is designed to see if you have an idea of what you are getting yourself into with this role. Not every retail job is the same, and not every hospital job is the same. If your answer matches what the job is really like, most likely the job will work out for both employer and employee. You want to review the job description prior to the interview, which should list some key tasks of the role.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 13th, 2024
Answer Example
"Depending on the assignment of the day, I would start my shift by _____, I would complete some batch checking, answer phone calls as needed, attend rounds, complete pharmacokinetic consults and dosing consults, check in with ____, and close out my daily task list. I may attend a meeting if needed."
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 13th, 2024
18. Do you have any barriers to getting to work on time and meeting all scheduling expectations of the position?
How to Answer
The employer is asking these questions to look for any potential problems with scheduling. It is important that the employee and employer are clear up front whether or not overnight shifts will be required, and that if it snows you understand you must get to work, etc. Someone who lives 40 miles away from work may look like a risky hire. You want to assess your ability to fulfill your staffing requirements against their expectations. If you can work any shift, you want to reassure the interviewer that you understand the commitment and are ready for this type of scheduling.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 13th, 2024
Answer Example
"No, I do not have any barriers. I am able to work all three shifts as needed and have previously done evenings, weekends, and holidays at my prior job. You have explained the evening, weekend, and holiday requirements and it is in line with what I was expecting."
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 13th, 2024
19. Describe a situation where you received constructive feedback on your work.
How to Answer
The employer wants to know how flexible you are and if you have a good attitude and can adapt when needed. This is a great question to highlight your belief in teamwork, and your desire to see things from a big picture outlook. You want to describe a situation where you did your best, but another perspective added value. Everyone tries their best and feels like they have seen items from all angles. But more opinions and different viewpoints generally make for a stronger outcome. The employer wants to know if you can thrive with that mentality.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 8th, 2024
Answer Example
"I was working in the IV room and had set up my batch checking counter from top to bottom. I described this flow to the technician, and we agreed and started working. When my manager came through, they noticed I wasn't working left to right. They mentioned that doing it from left to right can minimize the potential for error due to the pass-through angle. I had not considered that before and agreed with them that I would make it left to right. My manager appreciated my ability to change on the spot and recognize another opinion with more experience."
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 7th, 2024
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20. How do you stay up to date on current issues in the pharmacy field?
How to Answer
The interviewer is looking for very specific steps you are taking to stay relevant and up to date on legal developments, recent literature in your area of practice, or evolving treatments and new drug approvals. You want to comment on any journals you scan monthly, any email blasts you receive, any regional or national meetings you attend, and any professional organizations you belong to. If you precept students or residents and attend any journal clubs these are also good items to add to your answer.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 8th, 2024
Answer Example
"I keep up to date in pharmacy in a few different ways. I belong to ASHP which sends out daily, weekly, and monthly updates in the area of pharmacy law and practice changes. I scan the table of contents of JAMA and NEJM monthly. I also attend my regional oncology meeting and I am a regional representative for ---- Pharmacy School. I precept students three times a year and attend virtual journal clubs monthly."
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 7th, 2024
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21. What do you enjoy most about being a pharmacist?
How to Answer
This question is for the employer to find out if you will be happy working in the position they have. This answer should be personal, heartfelt, and detailed. The employer does not want to hear standard responses like "I enjoy helping people." You want to take the answer a step further. This question is not about your performance, it is about how you feel about your career.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 8th, 2024
1st Answer Example
"I enjoy helping a patient understand how their medications treat their blood clots. I feel like I am playing an important role in keeping them out of the hospital."
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 7th, 2024
2nd Answer Example
"I enjoy teaching physicians about a new medication and how it can offer a different option than the patient had before. Providing education is really fulfilling."
Written by Samantha Brown on February 15th, 2024
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22. If you felt a customer was using prescribed drugs for the wrong reasons, what would you do?
How to Answer
This question is to assess your problem-solving and risk-assessment skills. You want to give a real world answer if you have one. You want to let the interviewer know you can assess this effectively, can take appropriate action, and offer ideas for this situation in the future. This is a recurrent issue and the employer is aware you will face this situation. You also want to remark that you will learn their policies and procedures and adapt to their preferences as needed.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 8th, 2024
Answer Example
"I had this happen to me before, I was concerned about____, so I ____, and then we implemented a new process based on this situation which involved ------. Each time I encounter this I find it to be a challenging situation, but one that pharmacists play a vital role in keeping patients safe. I know there may be different policies and procedures at each company and I am open to learning different and better ways to tackle this ongoing issue."
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 8th, 2024
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23. How would you handle a patient or physician yelling at you?
How to Answer
Answer Tips: This is unfortunately a realistic situation and you want to pull from a real-world example if possible. If you do not have an example, you want to discuss your approach to this situation. A good answer involves discussing ways to de-escalate the situation, employ empathy with the person, and work towards an efficient resolution while protecting yourself and following policy.
You may consider adding that you are aware of what to do if you are threatened (call security or a manager), and also if you need to hand off a situation to another pharmacist if possible to de-escalate the situation further if needed. The most important tip is to recognize that engaging in the dispute is not appropriate and rarely leads to resolution.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 8th, 2024
Answer Example
"I would tell the patient I am sorry they have to wait, and I know they must be uncomfortable. I would ask them if we could have the medication delivered to them. I would communicate that this is the current process and I understand this is not currently working for them. I would let my manager know about this in the hopes of it being better in the future and am sorry they are dealing with this.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 8th, 2024
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24. What type of position would you hope to have in 5 years?
How to Answer
This question is merely trying to learn more about you as a person and your expected longevity within this role. The employer wants to know how long you will be with them and if you want to grow in this organization. Can this job make you happy for at least five years? The best answer is an honest answer while allowing some room for flexibility. Recognize and communicate what you want and that you know things change and you are willing to adapt and look for opportunities within the company.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 8th, 2024
Answer Example
"I have found a few different areas in pharmacy that I really love. My immediate goal is to find a position with growth potential so that I can ultimately reach my goal of being a student preceptor/lead pharmacist/regional trainer/clinical pharmacist in an outpatient anticoagulation clinic. I realize I need more experience in -----, and that is why this position is so appealing to me."
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 7th, 2024
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25. Describe a difficult work experience, and what you learned from it.
Tips
The employer is looking to see how you handle conflict. You want to describe a pharmacy work experience if at all possible. If you need to pull from a prior job not in pharmacy that is fine as well but try to use a pharmacist example.
This is a two-part question, so make sure you answer both parts. You want to briefly describe the situation without assigning blame, just the facts. The best scenarios are those with misunderstandings, or two different parties having different priorities. If you don't have this example, just use something that happened to you. The employer wants to see a moment of effective communication and conflict resolution while being able to look for ways to minimize this situation in the future.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 7th, 2024
Answer Example
"I was working the evening shift and Dr. Smith, a cardiologist, called wanting ---- for his patient for ----. This is a REMS medication and off-label for the reason he wanted. I explained the limitations and why I could not obtain that for him tonight. He was extremely upset stating I would be responsible for delaying his procedure tomorrow morning. I told him I understood the urgency and I would make sure to pass along this situation to my manager for resolution in the morning as soon as possible. I suggested trying ----- as it was immediately available and labeled for this reason. He declined this option but appreciated me trying to find a solution. He said this was a home medication and he was trying to keep it going. I suggested a stat consult with ---- who could find an alternative."
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 7th, 2024
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26. Tell me about a time when you did not reach a goal at work. What did you learn from it?.
How to Answer
The employer is asking about your ability to learn and self-reflect. Can you recover from failure and assess the situation to be successful next time? Make sure to answer both parts of the question and pull from a pharmacist example. You don't need to overwork this answer, keep it short and simple. You want to identify a key reason or two as to why it wasn't successful and what would be needed to make is successful next time.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 12th, 2024
Answer Example
Our pharmacy was working to identify a way to improve the number of patients we counseled on anticoagulants. I identified a potential solution but we were not able to execute it due to staffing shortages. I realized I designed the program around doing it perfectly, and as a result we weren't able to do it at all. I re-designed it at a smaller scale as a pilot with smaller goals, and we were able to finally initiate it a year later. I learned not to let perfect get in the way of good. Even if you have to start small, it is better to at least start rather than aiming for perfection and not start at all.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 12th, 2024
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27. What do you find most challenging in your current role?
How to Answer
The employer is curious as to why you are leaving your current role and if that issue will be present in this position. They are also looking for what makes you happy and if this position is a fit for you. They are wondering if you are adaptable and if you get upset about minor details. You want to answer this question honestly and with balance. You don't want to throw individual people out as reasons why you are unhappy or challenged. That would sound as if you cannot get along with different personalities. The best types of answers involve a lack of potential for growth, or a change in responsibilities from your current role, or a desire to improve on a different skillset for you. It is best to avoid talking about schedule unless you are on third shift and need a dayshift position.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 8th, 2024
Answer Example
"I really love most aspects of my current position. The people are wonderful and I love my patients. I really want to become a pharmacy preceptor in an outpatient clinic setting and I believe this position will give me the experience and opportunities to meet that goal."
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 7th, 2024
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28. What is it about this role that appeals to you?
How to Answer
First, thank the interviewer for the opportunity to interview. Then comment on some characteristics about the job that you like as well as why you want to be a part of the larger organization. The main goal of this answer is to convey your excitement about this position and why you think this role is a good fit for you. You want to also let the interviewer know what specifically you will bring to their department.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 8th, 2024
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer is wondering if your pre-conceived understanding of the role fits with what they are looking for. "I saw online that you are offering a new program in -----. I did a rotation in this area during pharmacy school and I would love to see this at work."
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 7th, 2024
1st Answer Example
"Thank you for the opportunity to interview for this role. I think it is a great match for me as I have steered my career towards working in -----, since my last year of pharmacy school. I have completed three rotations in -----, and my last position was in -----. I believe these two experiences prepared me for this role.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 13th, 2024
2nd Answer Example
"I read that ----- has recently expanded into home health and I worked in that area in my last position. I find it both challenging and rewarding to help patients transition from the hospital to home."
Written by Samantha Brown on February 15th, 2024
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29. Describe a time when you feel you made a difference in a patient's care.
How to Answer
This is a great question to let you shine. You want to deliver this answer with some level of excitement and passion for your job. There is really no downside to this question, the employer wants to see how much enjoyment you get out of work and learn a little more about your personality and dedication. This question is designed to let you tell the employer something that is not on your resume, and something that you are proud of. Everyone should have one of these examples in their pocket. This can also be from pharmacy school if you are a recent graduate. If you have been in practice for a while, try to pull something within the last year.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 8th, 2024
Answer Example
"A patient was in the aisle looking for something for -----. I noticed them in the aisle for quite a while and went to the floor to ask if they needed help. They were confused on ----- and needed some suggestions for ----. While cautioning them about drug interactions I noticed they were also taking -----. On further discussion I discovered they were actually experiencing a drug interaction side effect. I called their two physicians and made alternate recommendations. The patient avoided adding another unnecessary medication, felt better, and saved money. They thanked me so much and it was one of my best days at work last year!"
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 7th, 2024
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30. Are you available for shift work?
How to Answer
This question is designed to quickly determine if you are a true candidate for this position that may require evenings, midnight shifts, weekends, and holidays. Shift work is primarily 24/7 work, and the employer needs to clarify if you have any scheduling restrictions. This is a time to mention any schedule restrictions that are absolutely essential for you. The employer needs to confirm they can freely schedule you. If you suggest scheduling challenges may exist for you, or suggest that you cannot work variable hours you may lose candidacy in this position. It is recommended that you confirm your potential scheduling during this part of the interview.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 8th, 2024
Answer Example
"Yes, I am prepared to work all shifts as required. Can you explain the current staff pharmacist scheduling?"
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 7th, 2024
31. How would your patients describe you?
How to Answer
This is a very specific question for a certain type of practicing pharmacist with recurrent patients. This may be used in an ambulatory clinic position or a small retail setting. If this type of question is used, it is being used to determine how well you communicate with patients, and how engaging you are with patients. In this type of position with pharmacist and patient regular interaction, it is important that the right personality is placed in the role. The employer is looking if you are appropriate, dependable, a good communicator, and can develop important relationships. If you are a recent pharmacy graduate and have not yet built these relationships you can discuss positive patient interactions from rotation.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 8th, 2024
Answer Example
"I love my patients. I really enjoy interacting with my regular patients and seeing the results of my counseling and suggestions. I believe my patients would describe me as caring, dedicated, and professional. I make extra calls to them at home to make sure they understood my teaching, and I call each person personally who misses any appointments."
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 7th, 2024
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32. Describe a conflict with a preceptor or attending physician.
How to Answer
This can be a tricky question to answer. This is a question to practice answering ahead of time to master the correct tone. The employer wants to assess if you have any issues with anger management, conflict resolution, and communication. In addition, the employer wants to discern your honesty and ability to interact in many different situations. I would make sure to find an example you can highlight. If a candidate answers that they can't think of anything, that tells the employer they have not yet worked enough to have those experiences, or they have something they do not wish to share.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 8th, 2024
Answer Example
"In my first professional role, I was on rounds with a surgeon. I recommended a change to the patient's antibiotic regimen. The surgeon did not agree due to the anaerobic coverage he wanted. I felt like it was an education issue and attempted to describe the benefits of a change. The surgeon expressed his frustration that day on rounds in a group setting and refused to change it. I decided to leave it alone and try again the next day. When I returned to work the next day, the surgeon had already changed it to my suggestion."
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 7th, 2024
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33. What do you see as the most critical issues in pharmacy today?
How to Answer
This is an open-ended question with no true correct answer. The employer is trying to assess how aware you are of the current issues regarding pharmacists as a whole. There may be situation-specific answers that are unique to home health, retail, and hospitals. I would answer in a way that highlights one or two specific issues you are aware of. Maybe these are items you have seen while in school, issues in your past role, or issues you see in your Board of Pharmacy FAQs on their website. This is a good opportunity to ask how this potential job or organization addresses these issues.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 8th, 2024
Answer Example
"I am personally concerned with -----. I have seen the evolution of ----- and would like to see -----. I have also experienced ----- and would love to help find a resolution to ---- in my career."
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 7th, 2024
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34. What is your communication style?
How to Answer
This is a classic question that is designed to gauge your own interpersonal insight and to make sure you will fit in with the existing team. The employer also wants to make sure they can communicate with you effectively. They are looking for any red flags that could point to future issues between staff or with patients and caregivers. This question may require you to do some preparation and practice answering. This question is one of the most important for hiring managers.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 11th, 2024
Answer Example
"I really enjoy working with a variety of people and I try to adjust my communication to the issue of the moment. I am an empathetic person and look for ways to create win-win situations for people. I have been told I am a clear and effective communicator."
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 11th, 2024
35. How would your peers describe you?
How to Answer
This is another opportunity for you to celebrate your skills. You can reference examples from previous positions, or past comments from prior managers. You want to highlight your strengths while allowing your unique personality to shine through. It is best to answer this question as honestly as possible but be confident in how you interact in a professional environment. Ultimately you want to find the right fit for a position, and allowing the hiring manager to really see your personality will increase your chances for success.
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 11th, 2024
Answer Example
"I have been lucky enough to work with some great people and had wonderful mentors. I have been described as outgoing, dedicated, and a team player. I make it a point to get to know my coworkers and look for common ground with my peers. My prior manager described me as passionate about patient care and willing to go the extra mile for a patient while still balancing the workload effectively."
Written by Stephanie Baumhover on February 11th, 2024
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