(Date published: 25 January
2002)
Jeremy Tromans
AllAboutMedicalSales.com
An
interview is much the same as a sales call. You are the product and your
interviewer is your customer. If you don't effectively sell yourself your
chances of success are minimal. Preparation is an integral element of the sales
process. It will give you confidence and will demonstrate your professionalism
and commitment to your future employer.
Maximise your chances, make
first impressions count and ensure that you are the best prepared candidate on
the day.
Initial confirmation of interview is normally by telephone,
with written confirmation following shortly via fax, email or in the post.
Ensure that you have the following information:
- Date
- Time & duration
- Venue
- Directions
- Name of interviewer and their position within the company. Also ensure that you have the correct pronunciation of their name
- Format of interview and if there are any special requirements e.g. you may be required to give a short presentation
Other useful information, worthy of research would include:
- Company Information e.g. history, size, turnover, areas of expertise, competition, directors names, competitors, research, current product portfolio, future product portfolio, training opportunities. This type of information is obtainable via the internet, via the agency you are working with or direct from your prospective employer.
- Further information on the person who will be conducting the interview.
It is vital that you have studied and are
fluent with your own curriculum vitae. It is wise to carry additional copies.
Read your own curriculum vitae from your interviewer's perspective. What
questions are they likely to ask you? How will you answer these questions?
Preparation time in knowing how you will answer questions is rarely wasted!
Ensure that you have names and addresses of referees and that they
will provide good references. These details should be arranged prior to the
interview. Calling to change a referee will give a poor impression.
Your knowledge of a day in the life of a Medical Representative may be
questioned at initial interviews, so we strongly recommend that you research
the job by speaking to GPs, Pharmacists, or ideally Medical Representatives
before you attend for any interview.
- The art of conducting successful interviews is a science.
- Read books on this subject.
- Go the extra mile in all your efforts and preparation.
- Leave no stone unturned.
- Be organised.
- Dress for success.
- Be punctual.
- Have positive expectations.
- Know why you want the job, understand the needs of your interviewer and demonstrate clearly how you can fulfil those needs.
GOOD LUCK.
