Pfizer is an American multinational pharmaceutical and biotechnology corporation founded in 1849 by two cousins Charles Pfizer and Charles F. Erhart.
Pfizer develops and manufactures immunology, oncology, cardiology, endocrinology, and neurology medicines and vaccines. The company has several blockbuster drugs or products with annual revenues exceeding $1 billion. In 2020, the United States accounted for 52% of the company’s revenues, while China and Japan accounted for 6% and 36%, respectively.
This article will help you prepare for your interview by introducing you to some of the most common questions asked in Pfizer’s interviews. To increase your chances of getting the job, make sure you have all of the answers to these recommendations. Consider the following inquiries:
1. How Well Do You Know Pfizer?
I have done enough research on this company to know enough about it. It is a worldwide pharmaceutical and biotechnology company with its main office in Manhattan, New York City, on 42nd Street. Pfizer develops and manufactures immunology, oncology, cardiology, endocrinology, and neurology medicines and vaccines. Charles Pfizer and his nephew Charles F. Erhart, two German businessmen, founded the corporation in New York in 1849.
2. What Inspires You To Join This Organization?
Numerous factors motivate me to join this organization. Pfizer is currently one of the top firms in the Pharma/Biotech industry, and it has always been my ambition to work with the best. In my opinion, my skill set and experience will not only benefit your business but will also enable me to gain knowledge and polish my abilities in line with the organization’s professional work culture. I would be happy to put my best effort into this organization if given an opportunity.
3. What Makes You A Good Candidate For This Position?
In previous jobs, I worked hard to develop specific and necessary soft skills for this position. I am very organized which makes me an excellent candidate for this position. I am sure that my qualifications and professional background meet the needs of this position. I became more disciplined by upholding my work ethic, and I look forward to contributing to the organization’s financial goal for the quarter. I feel I would be a great employee for your company as a dedicated person and looking forward to working with seasoned professionals here.
4. Why Did You Choose A Career In The Pharma/Biotech Industry?
I have always felt intrigued by the study of medicine, science, and the connections between them, so I decided to pursue a career in pharma/biotech. Pharmaceutical/Biotechnology is a dynamic industry that never gets stale. For me, Biotechnology is a remarkable scientific field. It has completely changed the way diseases are treated, from the discovery of revolutionary antibiotics to the use of living organisms (bacteria, fungi, and viruses) to the modification of gene characteristics and even the quality of life science.
5. Have You Ever Disagreed With A Coworker? If So, How Did You Resolve It?
Lack of understanding and communication sometimes results in conflicts. Because of this, it is usually preferable to express a difference of view right away and in a respectful manner rather than letting underlying resentment and anger lead to conflict. I believe each of us can recall at least one instance of disagreeing with a friend or coworker if we stop to think about it. However, I think of myself as being rather laid back. I believe that professionals should be able to talk through issues and reach a solution acceptable to everyone.
6. How Would Your Most Recent Manager Describe You?
The qualities my employer would probably mention would be hard work, knowledge, and a desire for challenges. I put a lot of effort into keeping up with industry technologies by attending conferences and workshops. My boss and coworkers would always come to me with inquiries regarding industry standards because of my drive to learn. I am willing to take on projects and jobs that I am not familiar with, so I am always up for a challenge. They know I am always ready to help out in any manner. I’m eager to get along well with my prospective managers.
7. How Important Is Teamwork To You?
In my opinion, teamwork provides more opportunities for feedback. Employees, in general, do not tolerate criticism from their managers and peers. This creates a bitter work environment in which giving feedback to peers is difficult. People are much more friendly and focused when your organization has a teamwork culture. They are all aware that their ultimate goal is similar. Teamwork is essential for maintaining a pleasant work environment. The more we cooperate, the more we learn, and the team naturally becomes more collaborative, resulting in a more enjoyable work environment. A pleasant work environment leads to higher productivity, which helps organizations achieve their objectives more quickly.
8. How Many Years Have You Worked In The Pharma/Biotech Industry? What Keeps You Interested In Our Line Of Work?
For the past 9 years, I have worked in Pharma/Biotech. I started as a lab assistant and am now a team leader with my current company. The opportunities are limitless, which is why I remained in this industry. It would be an honor to advance my career in this industry. Learning new things sharpens my mind and prepares me to advance in my career and that is what makes my interest intact in this industry. I believe, If we live in comfort, we will not be able to advance in life, we will not be able to educate ourselves with new things, and we will miss out on opportunities.
9. Are You Familiar With Our Competitors?
Pfizer is well-known for being a leading research-based biopharmaceutical company. Pfizer colleagues work in developed and emerging markets to advance wellness, prevention, treatments, and cures for today’s most feared diseases. I recently read that it would provide up to 6 million courses of its COVID-19 antiviral treatment to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) Global Funds for low- and middle-income countries to address global disparities. You are one of the top businesses in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors. Your competitors are Roche Holding AG (RHHBY), Eli Lilly and Co. (LLY), AbbVie Inc. (ABBV), Novartis AG (NVS), and Merck & Co.
10. What Will Make You A Valuable Employee In This Organization?
I understand that your organization places a valuation on setting high goals for each team, and I am excited to be a part of one. I have a lot of experience working in a team and on large projects with tight deadlines. In this environment, my ability to work well in a group and manage my time will make me a valuable team member. I will certainly assist other employees, particularly newer ones, in navigating the organization’s various processes. I’ll also teach them some of the things I’ve learned over the years so they can do a better job.
11. Which Special Subject Matter Would You Choose With Pfizer If You Could?
Pfizer has always been my dream company, with so many numerous sectors to work in. So, with so many captivating options available to me, this is a difficult question to answer. If I had to pick just one area of expertise, it would be veterinary medicine. I am very interested in animal health.
12. Do You Prefer To Work On Human, Animal, Or Plant Life Studies?
I would prefer to work in the field of animal science. I’ve always been fascinated by animals and their behaviors since I was a child. Animal science advances knowledge of animal breeding, behavior, physiology, and management in species, including pets, farm animals, and exotic animals. I believe animals must be used in research for scientists to develop new drugs and treatments.
13. What Changes In The Industry Do You Predict In The Next 1 Year?
We know that the COVID-19 pandemic is still pushing the healthcare and life sciences industries in unexpected directions. We have seen health officials, vaccine developers, equipment manufacturers, and essential workers take life-saving actions, frequently putting their own lives in danger to respond to our time’s exceptional challenges. With my experience in the pharma industry, I can say that technology will continue to play an important role in transforming all aspects of the marketplace. Patients will receive real-time updates and notifications on everything from glucose levels to payments for healthcare services via cell phones, wearable devices, and other technologies.
14. What Are Your Strengths?
Decision-making, prioritization, and collaboration with other departments are all essential. Because of my ability to set priorities and accelerate development cycles I have helped my company grow. I always believe in teamwork and collaboration with colleagues to give a productive output to the organization. My skills and abilities are ideal for this position.
15. How Will You Improve The Working Environment?
I will use my skills and expertise. Regular activities such as team-building, informal meetings, and other ideas will take employees away from their desks and talk to one another, thereby facilitating a healthy work culture. To me, a work environment is important because it helps everyone feel more efficient, productive, and motivated. I will create a positive environment to encourage everyone to be more enthusiastic about coming to work and completing projects. It will make employees feel more empowered and focused, potentially improving office morale.
16. Do You Know Anyone Working At Pfizer?
A good friend of mine has been working in the research department at Pfizer for the last two years and he told me that the culture supports learning and development on the job – and rewards hard work. I’ve also researched the ethical work environment and was impressed by the positive feedback. If I get the job, I am confident I will have excellent working conditions.
17. What Would You Do If You Disagreed With A Colleague?
I have always believed that workplace communication eliminates unnecessary problems and promotes better performance. If I disagree with a colleague, I will approach them from a different perspective in a polite and non-offensive manner. From my prior experience, I have learned that employees will be more interested in cooperating and finding the best solution if they consult with one another and consider the perspectives of others.
18. What Are Your Preferred Working Hours?
I’m available whenever you need me, including on weekends, but I prefer evening shifts. Of course, I’d be available to work extra hours during the day if necessary. I can fill in for other employees, work day and night shifts, and even on weekends and holidays. I know how to deal with the stress of this job and would enjoy working in this establishment if given the opportunity.
19. How Do You Keep Up-To-Date On New Technologies And Trends In This Industry And Career?
I read the company’s newsletters every day. I follow several blogs related to the pharma and biotech industry such as FierceBiotech and Biotechblog. On LinkedIn, I also follow some industry leaders who share their research and inventions. I am fascinated by technological change and research on drugs and treatments. I have been in this industry for the past nine years. It strives for me to keep up with the most recent advancements in our industry.
20. How Do You Prioritize Your Work?
I prioritize my work based on the company’s goals and expectations of me. I keep my workload organized to reflect my top priorities, such as corresponding with clients and communicating team updates. I prioritize my work and organizational tasks while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. I make an effort to maintain communication with my manager and coworkers. If I’m working on a task that will take a long time to complete, I try to notify my team as soon as possible. If my workload becomes complicated, I consult with my boss to determine which items can be moved to the bottom of the priority list, and then I try to reset expectations about various deadlines.
21. What Motivates You To Work?
I enjoy pushing myself and making personal improvements. That’s what drew me to work hard. It’s personally challenging because it forced me to learn new skills that I would never have attempted on my own, such as cold calling someone or striking up a conversation with a stranger. It has changed my confidence level and my entire life, not just my career, and it’s what keeps me motivated and gets me through difficult days or days when things don’t go my way.
Personal development and continuous improvement motivate me. I am motivated when constantly learning and improving my skill set since I’m of value to my employer.
22. How Has Biotechnology Evolved Over The Years?
According to my research over the years, the pharmaceutical industry invested in R&D expenditures and activities such as drug discovery and testing. According to a newsletter, many of the drugs approved in recent years are “specialty drugs.” Specialty drugs typically treat chronic, complex, or rare conditions and may require special patient handling or monitoring. The biotech industry will develop new cancer therapies as well as treatments for nervous system disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. There have been numerous developments in the pharmaceutical industry over the last years, I believe the most significant has been the development of a life-saving vaccine against coronavirus and dengue.
23. How Do You Respond When A Problem Requires A Quick Solution?
When I encounter a problem, the first thing I do is look for examples of how others have solved similar problems. I’ll enlist the help of team members because they have more experience, and it’s always beneficial to see things from a different angle. This research provides me with various approaches to problem-solving and assists me in selecting the one that best suits me and the organization. Then I decide on a course of action to solve the problem, which includes communicating with my managers and colleagues and reaching a decision to solve the problem.
24. What Is Your Greatest Work-Related Accomplishment?
The achievement I am most proud of is how quickly I got promoted to team lead for our sales team. My Employer recognized the efforts and hard work that I had put in. After four months, I got promoted, and I have since discovered that it was because of my dependability, reliability, and potent leadership skills. This success demonstrated to me that I could devote myself to my career and achieve the goals I set for myself. It felt great to accomplish so much and be recognized for my hard work.
25. Can You Define An Ideal Employee?
Everyone has a different point of view, but in my opinion, soft skills and technical skills, or hard skills, are equally important in an employee. Soft skills include an employee’s social expertise, personality, character makeup, communication skills, emotional intelligence, influence, and work approach. I believe employees who accept responsibility for their actions, are dependable, arrive on time, do what they say, and do not let their teammates down are highly valued. All of these characteristics make an employee more valuable to a company.
Conclusion
We’ve compiled a list of questions to help you prepare for your interview with Pfizer. I hope they will assist you in obtaining an appropriate position within the organization. Wish you All The Best!