19 Medical Sales Representative Interview Questions (With Example Answers)
It's important to prepare for an interview in order to improve your chances of getting the job. Researching questions beforehand can help you give better answers during the interview. Most interviews will include questions about your personality, qualifications, experience and how well you would fit the job. In this article, we review examples of various medical sales representative interview questions and sample answers to some of the most common questions.
Common Medical Sales Representative Interview Questions
- What experience do you have in medical sales?
- What makes you the best candidate for this position?
- Why are you interested in working in medical sales?
- What do you know about our company?
- What do you think are the most important skills for a successful medical sales representative?
- Can you give me an example of a time when you successfully closed a sale?
- Can you describe a time when you overcame an objection from a customer?
- What do you consider to be your personal strengths and weaknesses when it comes to selling?
- What do you believe is the key to success in medical sales?
- What motivates you to sell?
- How do you keep up with changes in the medical industry?
- What do you think sets our products/services apart from our competitors?
- How would you handle a situation in which a doctor was resistant to using our products/services?
- Have you ever encountered a difficult ethical dilemma while selling? If so, how did you resolve it?
- What do you think is the most important factor to consider when making a sale?
- How do you deal with rejection?
- What are some of the challenges you anticipate facing in this role?
- How do you plan on building relationships with potential customers?
- What questions do you have for me about the position/company?
What experience do you have in medical sales?
The interviewer is trying to gauge the Medical Sales Representative's experience in medical sales in order to determine whether or not they are a good fit for the company. It is important to have experience in medical sales because it shows that the Medical Sales Representative is familiar with the products and services that the company offers, and that they have the ability to sell those products and services to customers.
Example: “I have worked in medical sales for over 10 years. I have experience calling on doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities. I have a proven track record of success in selling medical products and services. I am knowledgeable about the latest trends in the medical industry and have a keen understanding of the needs of healthcare providers.”
What makes you the best candidate for this position?
In order to sell a product, a medical sales representative must be knowledgeable about the product and be able to answer any questions a potential customer may have. They must also be able to identify the needs of the customer and match those needs with the features of the product.
Example: “I have extensive experience in medical sales, and have consistently been one of the top performers in my company. I have a deep understanding of the products I sell, and am able to effectively communicate their value to potential customers. I am also very personable and have strong relationships with many of the decision-makers in the medical field. My combination of experience, product knowledge, and relationships makes me the best candidate for this position.”
Why are you interested in working in medical sales?
There are a few reasons why an interviewer would ask "Why are you interested in working in medical sales?" to a medical sales representative. One reason is to gauge the level of interest and motivation the medical sales representative has for the role. It's important to ensure that the medical sales representative is truly interested in the role and not just looking for any sales job. Additionally, the interviewer may be looking to see if the medical sales representative has any prior experience or knowledge in the medical field. This is important because it can help to determine if the medical sales representative is a good fit for the position and if they would be able to effectively sell medical products.
Example: “I am interested in working in medical sales because I have a strong interest in the healthcare industry and I believe that medical sales is a great way to combine my interests in both healthcare and sales. Additionally, I believe that medical sales is a great career choice for me because it offers a high degree of autonomy and flexibility, which are both important factors for me when choosing a career.”
What do you know about our company?
The interviewer is trying to gauge the Medical Sales Representative's interest in the company and their knowledge of the company's products or services. It is important because if the Medical Sales Representative does not know anything about the company, they will not be able to sell the company's products or services effectively.
Example: “Our company is a leading provider of medical products and services. We offer a wide range of products and services to meet the needs of our customers. We are committed to providing quality products and services at competitive prices. We are a customer-focused company and we strive to provide the best possible customer service.”
What do you think are the most important skills for a successful medical sales representative?
The interviewer is trying to gauge whether the medical sales representative has the necessary skills to be successful in the role. It is important to have good people skills, as well as the ability to build relationships with potential customers. Additionally, it is important to be able to understand and explain complex medical information in a way that is easy for the layperson to understand. Finally, it is also important to be able to close deals and make sales.
Example: “The ability to develop relationships with customers, to understand their needs and to provide solutions that meet those needs are the most important skills for a successful medical sales representative. Other important skills include effective communication, negotiation and presentation skills, as well as product knowledge and an understanding of the healthcare industry.”
Can you give me an example of a time when you successfully closed a sale?
The interviewer is trying to gauge the candidate's ability to successfully sell products or services to customers. This is important because medical sales representatives need to be able to persuasively explain the benefits of their products or services in order to convince customers to make a purchase.
Example: “I was working for a pharmaceutical company and I was tasked with selling a new product to doctors. I was successful in closing the sale by educating the doctor on the product and its benefits, and then providing a demonstration of how the product worked.”
Can you describe a time when you overcame an objection from a customer?
An interviewer would ask a medical sales representative about a time when they overcame an objection from a customer in order to gauge the sales representative's ability to handle difficult customer situations. This is important because medical sales representatives need to be able to effectively communicate with customers, understand their needs, and address any objections or concerns they may have.
Example: “I was once selling a new type of medical device to a potential customer, and they were very hesitant to try it out because it was so new and different. I overcame this objection by stressing the importance of trying new things and how this device could potentially help them in their work. I also offered a free trial period so that they could test it out for themselves with no risk. In the end, they agreed to try it out and ended up being one of our best customers.”
What do you consider to be your personal strengths and weaknesses when it comes to selling?
The interviewer is trying to gauge the Medical Sales Representative's level of self-awareness and understanding of their own skills. This is important because it shows whether the Medical Sales Representative is able to realistically assess their own abilities and identify areas where they need to improve. By understanding their own strengths and weaknesses, the Medical Sales Representative can more effectively sell to customers and close deals.
Example: “My personal strengths when it comes to selling are that I am very passionate about the products I am selling, and I am also very knowledgeable about them. I am also very good at building relationships with customers and developing trust with them. My weaknesses are that I can sometimes be too pushy when selling, and I can also get too emotionally attached to the products I am selling.”
What do you believe is the key to success in medical sales?
There are a few reasons why an interviewer would ask this question to a medical sales representative. First, it allows the interviewer to gauge the sales representative's understanding of the medical sales industry. Second, it allows the interviewer to see if the sales representative has a clear plan for success in medical sales. Finally, it allows the interviewer to get a sense of the sales representative's motivation for success in medical sales.
It is important for the interviewer to ask this question because it allows them to get a better understanding of the sales representative's understanding of the medical sales industry. Additionally, it allows the interviewer to see if the sales representative has a clear plan for success in medical sales. Finally, it allows the interviewer to get a sense of the sales representative's motivation for success in medical sales.
Example: “There are many important factors that contribute to success in medical sales, but I believe that the most important factor is building strong relationships with customers. In order to be successful, you need to be able to build trust and credibility with customers, and show them that you are knowledgeable about their needs. You also need to be able to effectively communicate the benefits of your products or services, and demonstrate how they can improve the quality of care for patients.”
What motivates you to sell?
The interviewer is trying to gauge the Medical Sales Representative's motivation for selling, which is important because it can help determine whether or not they will be successful in the role. It also allows the interviewer to get a better understanding of the Medical Sales Representative's goals and what drives them to sell.
Example: “I am motivated to sell because I enjoy helping people and solving problems. I also like the challenge of finding new customers and developing relationships with them. Selling is a fun and rewarding way to earn a living, and I am grateful to have the opportunity to do it.”
How do you keep up with changes in the medical industry?
The interviewer is asking this question to gain insight into the Medical Sales Representative's ability to stay current with changes in the medical industry. This is important because the Medical Sales Representative needs to be able to sell the latest and greatest products and services to their customers. If the Medical Sales Representative cannot keep up with changes in the medical industry, they will not be able to sell their products and services effectively.
Example: “There are a few different ways to keep up with changes in the medical industry. One way is to read medical journals and attend conferences related to your field. Another way is to stay up to date on new products and treatments by reading trade publications and talking to colleagues. You can also stay informed about changes in healthcare policy by following news outlets and keeping up with industry news.”
What do you think sets our products/services apart from our competitors?
The interviewer is trying to gauge the Medical Sales Representative's understanding of the company's products and services and how they compare to the competition. This question is important because it allows the interviewer to see if the Medical Sales Representative has done their research on the company and its competitors and if they are able to articulate the company's unique selling points.
Example: “There are several things that set our products/services apart from our competitors. First, we have a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction that is unmatched in the industry. We only use the highest quality materials and components in our products, and we stand behind them with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Second, we have a team of highly trained and experienced customer service representatives who are available 24/7 to answer any questions or concerns you may have. Third, we offer a wide range of products and services that are designed to meet your specific needs. And finally, we offer competitive pricing that is unbeatable in the industry.”
How would you handle a situation in which a doctor was resistant to using our products/services?
The interviewer is trying to gauge the Medical Sales Representative's ability to deal with difficult customers. It is important for the Medical Sales Representative to be able to stay calm and respectful when dealing with a resistant doctor, in order to maintain a good relationship with the customer.
Example: “There are a few different ways that I would handle a situation in which a doctor was resistant to using our products/services. First, I would try to understand the reasons behind the resistance. If the doctor is resistant because they are not familiar with our products/services, I would provide them with information and resources that would help them understand what we offer and how it can benefit their patients. If the doctor is resistant because they have had a negative experience with our products/services in the past, I would try to address their concerns and see if there is anything we can do to improve their experience. Finally, if the doctor is resistant for any other reason, I would try to find a compromise that would work for both parties.”
Have you ever encountered a difficult ethical dilemma while selling? If so, how did you resolve it?
The interviewer is trying to gauge the ethical standards of the medical sales representative. It is important to know if the representative is willing to adhere to ethical standards in order to avoid any legal or moral issues.
Example: “I have not encountered a difficult ethical dilemma while selling.”
What do you think is the most important factor to consider when making a sale?
The interviewer is trying to gauge the Medical Sales Representative's understanding of the sales process and what factors are important to consider when making a sale. This is important because it shows whether the Medical Sales Representative is knowledgeable about the sales process and whether they are able to identify key factors that can make or break a sale.
Example: “The most important factor to consider when making a sale is understanding the needs of the customer and providing a solution that meets those needs. It is also important to build rapport with the customer, establish trust, and create a relationship of mutual respect.”
How do you deal with rejection?
An interviewer may ask "How do you deal with rejection?" to a/an Medical Sales Representative to gain insight into how the individual copes with disappointment and setbacks. This is important because Medical Sales Representatives must be able to handle frequent rejection in a professional manner in order to be successful in their role.
Example: “There are a few ways to deal with rejection when selling medical products. The first is to understand that rejection is a normal part of the sales process. It is not personal and should not be taken personally. Instead, view it as a necessary step to getting the sale.
The second way to deal with rejection is to have a positive attitude. This means staying upbeat and optimistic, even when faced with rejection. Remember that every "no" brings you closer to a "yes."
The third way to deal with rejection is to learn from it. After each rejection, take a moment to reflect on what happened and what you could have done differently. This will help you improve your sales technique and increase your chances of success in the future.”
What are some of the challenges you anticipate facing in this role?
The interviewer is trying to gauge whether the Medical Sales Representative has thought about the challenges they may face in the role and whether they are prepared to deal with them. This is important because it shows that the Medical Sales Representative is willing to take on challenges and is not afraid of change. It also shows that they have the ability to think ahead and plan for potential problems.
Example: “Some of the challenges I anticipate facing in this role include:
1. Learning the ins and outs of the products I will be selling. This includes understanding how the products work, what they are used for, and what benefits they offer to customers.
2. Developing relationships with potential customers and convincing them to purchase our products. This will require me to be persuasive and have a strong understanding of the needs of my target market.
3. Keeping up with industry trends and changes, and ensuring that our products are always up-to-date and competitive. This will require me to stay current on industry news and developments, and to be proactive in making recommendations for product improvements or enhancements.”
How do you plan on building relationships with potential customers?
The interviewer is trying to gauge the Medical Sales Representative's understanding of the sales process and their ability to build relationships with potential customers. It is important for the Medical Sales Representative to be able to establish rapport with potential customers and understand their needs in order to sell them the appropriate product.
Example: “There are a few key ways to build relationships with potential customers:
1. Get to know them and their business. Take the time to learn about their company, their products, their needs, and their pain points. The more you know, the better you can serve them.
2. Be responsive and helpful. When they reach out to you, whether it’s via email, phone, or social media, make sure you respond promptly and helpfully. Show them that you care about their business and are there to help them succeed.
3. Offer value. Whether it’s helpful information, valuable resources, or exclusive deals, make sure you’re offering your potential customers something of value. This will help build trust and rapport.
4. Stay in touch. Even if a potential customer isn’t ready to buy right away, stay in touch with them so they don’t forget about you. Send them timely updates, helpful articles, or invitations to events. Keep the lines of communication open so you’re top of mind when they are ready to buy.”
What questions do you have for me about the position/company?
The interviewer is trying to gauge the Medical Sales Representative's interest in the position and company, and to see if they have done their research. It is important because it shows that the Medical Sales Representative is interested in the company and is preparing for the interview.
Example: “1. What inspired the company to create this position?
2. What does the company hope to achieve by filling this position?
3. What are the key responsibilities of the role?
4. What skills and qualifications are you looking for in a successful candidate?
5. What would you say is the company’s primary customer base?
6. Describe the company’s sales process.
7. What are the most important metrics you track in this role?
8. How do you see this position evolving over time?
9. What challenges do you anticipate the successful candidate will face in this role?
10. Is there anything else I should know about the company or the position?”