3 Questions to Impress an Interviewer in Pharma

Applicants often forget that a job interview is a two-way street and that sometimes the key to impressing an interviewer is asking the right questions. In fact, these queries can even be the deciding factor in whether that applicant is hired.

While preparing for an interview in the pharmaceutical industry is much like preparing for any job interview, Kathy Faria, Talent Acquisition Manager for Novo Nordisk Canada, said to Xtalks that it is particularly important to research the company in question and have a solid understanding of what they do.

“My recommendation is to know your “why” before you apply. Why have you applied to this job, career, company, and why now? In the same way, each individual is unique, each pharma organization has a unique culture. It isn’t always about your qualifications that will get you the job, it is about the fit with the team, organization and culture, so make sure it’s the right company,” said Faria.

Novo Nordisk is a global healthcare company with more than 90 years of experience in diabetes care. Headquartered in Denmark, the company employs approximately 42,600 people in 80 countries and is currently hiring for several positions.

For Faria, who recruits and interviews potential employees for the organization, she notes that candidates who display interest and passion for the company stand out from the crowd.

“Invest the time to research the company you want to work for. Get out there and network, and talk to people who work for the company, even if just for a coffee or quick phone call,” continues Faria. “You dedicate so much time to your workplace, why not take the time to see if this is really the place you want to be?”

If you’re in the process of preparing for an interview in the pharmaceutical industry, Faria suggests asking these three questions to impress a potential employer.

1) Tell me why you love working for this company?

“Showing an interest in the person who is interviewing you, not only builds rapport, but also shows you are interested in learning about the organization’s culture,” said Faria.  It demonstrates that you view this a possible career rather than a new job and that you care what the company stands for and its values.”

2) What does success look like in this role?

“Asking this question indicates that you are looking to invest in a future with the company and that you care about your contribution. We are always looking for ambitious individuals and leaders,” said Faria.

3) What makes your company unique?

“This is a great question to really understand what sets an organization apart from its competition. This is an opportunity to learn about the organization and see if is aligned with your core values and beliefs,” concluded Faria.

In addition, don’t be afraid to ask about the hiring process. Knowing the number and length of subsequent interviews, as well as how many interviewers you will be meeting with, will help you go forward with confidence.

While many applicants find the hiring process nerve-wracking, going into the interview thoroughly prepared from the beginning to the end of the meeting will ensure that you’re able to impress the interviewer while also calming your own pre-interview jitters.