By Linda Matias
Knowing ahead of time the type of pharmaceutical sales questions you may be asked during an interview will give you an advantage over other candidates. Pharmaceutical selling is one of the most competitive industries out there. Individuals from all ages and backgrounds are vying for these lucrative positions. During the job search process you will find your opposition range from recent college graduates to seasoned sales professionals – all whom have an equal shot at landing the position.
The best way to shine during the interview and leave a favorable impression is to conduct a mock interview with potential questions. To assist you in preparing for a pharmaceutical sales interview, below are sample questions along with suggestions on how to answer each.
Sample Pharmaceutical Sales Interview Questions
Describe how your existing position has prepared you for a career in pharmaceutical sales. Focus your response on transferable characteristics/skills. Examples include: assertiveness, client-focused, consultative sales, solutions selling, relationship building, account growth and retention, and solid follow-up strategies. Working key attributes into your response will garner positive attention from the interviewer.
This position will require you to work independently. How do you feel about that?When answering this question you can emphasize one of the following: (1) you thrive on working solo, (2) you have experience working with little or no supervision.
Tell me how you see your role as a pharmaceutical sales representative.Keep in mind that pharmaceutical sales reps are known as assertive, tenacious, and determined. Let the interviewer know that you are prepared to go the distance on the job and are willing to follow up until you close the deal.
Give an example of a time when you used persuasive communication skills to win over a customer.As a pharmaceutical representative, a major role you will have is to convince physicians, medical staff, and/or medical professionals to prescribe specific drugs to their patients. Since your persuasive communication skills are so vital, choose an example that highlights your experience in this area.
Describe a time when you were competitive.Medical professionals are used to many pharmaceutical sales representatives courting them at once. As the sales person, it is up to you to stand out from the rest, and land the deal. The interviewer is interested in how you intend to win over prospects.
What do you know about our drugs?In order to sell the pharmaceuticals, you must believe in the product. To prepare for the interview, familiarize yourself with the hiring organization and its offerings.
Additional Pharmaceutical Sales Interview Tips
Another point to keep in mind is your professional dress. It goes without saying that you should dress professionally for any interview, but pharmaceutical sales is especially important. In an industry where candidates who have model looks (literally) are favored, it would behoove you to take extra steps to ensure you look your best.
Interviewers will expect you to have an assertive approach during the process. You will score points if you ask for the job at the end of the interview. Remember an interview is a “sales” call, so go for the close.
Certified in all three areas of the job search
Certified Interview Coach (CIC), Job & Career Transition Coach (JCTC), and Nationally Certified Resume Writer (NCRW)
Linda Matias is qualified to assist you in your career transition, whether it be a complete career makeover, interview preparation, or resume assistance. She is also the author How to Say It: Job Interviews (Prentice Hall Press). You can contact Linda Matias at linda@careerstrides.com or visit her website http://www.careerstrides.com for additional career advice and to view resume samples.
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