Pharmaceutical Interview Techniques

Have you ever been in an interview and they have asked you ‘do you have any questions for us?’? Well if like me on a few occasions you’ve said no, then like me you were probably rejected. This is another test like all the other questions they’ve asked you before.

But there is no use crying over spilt milk. Dry those tears and read on for my Top 5 Questions to ask in an interview.

1. Is there any room for career progression? This highlights your long term interest to stay with the company however, be careful this question could also backfire as they may think you are someone who won’t stay in the role they are recruiting for, for long. Test the water, read the job description and check the banding before you ask a loaded question.

2.What is the team structure I’ll be working with and who will I be reporting to? Asking for the workings of the team enables you to see if you would fit into the team and also gives you an idea of how many people you have to work alongside, doctors, nurses, cleaners, support staff, administration and ultimately impress. Remember you are interviewing the company as well as them interviewing you, so if you prefer small teams and they inform you that you’ll be working with and for 60 people think about whether or not it’s something you are really interested in.

3.What are you looking for in a Candidate? This question is a little cheeky as you are asking for specific information and will put them on the spot. Again this will ensure you are suited for the role as many recruiters will require a certain type of person to make their team work effectively so don’t be offended if they decide you wouldn’t fit, it will just be because they have someone with a similar personality already working for them. 

4.What do you like about your job and the company? Again a bit cheeky but generally very well received as it takes the focus off of you and hopefully they will be honest and have a joke with you about it for example: ‘it’s good 99% of the time except early Monday mornings!’ This will enable you to gage the positives of working for the company and possibly a few negatives too (if they are a good interviewer)

5.Mention something you’ve read about the company and ask a question about it. For example, ‘I read on your website that you are establishing a new Equal Opportunities Policy, how will this affect me?’ This question proves you have done your homework and your seriousness for the role. It will also take the heat off of you for a few minutes and give you time to relax and possibly think of another question.

It’s incredibly important to ask at least one question in an interview. If they ask you at the beginning and you can’t think of one just say ’not at the moment’ but do ask one before the end of the interview or you will be kicking yourself later.

So there you have it 5 questions to get you out of an ‘ermmmm, uhhhhhh’ moment and hopefully be the cherry on the top of your already successful interview.

Good Luck!

Job Doctor