You’re about to go into a laboratory management interview. What’s the best way to prepare?

1 Research the employer

Before you go to the interview, do some research on the employer and the laboratory you are applying for. Find out their mission, vision, values, goals, challenges, and achievements. Learn about their current projects, clients, partners, and competitors. This will help you tailor your answers to their specific needs and expectations. It will also show that you are genuinely interested in working for them and that you have done your homework.

2 Review your resume

Your resume is the first impression that the hiring manager will have of you. Make sure it is updated, accurate, and relevant to the laboratory management position. Highlight your achievements, skills, and qualifications that demonstrate your ability to manage a laboratory effectively. Use quantifiable metrics and examples to showcase your impact and value. Review your resume carefully and anticipate any questions or concerns that the hiring manager might have about your background or career path.

3 Prepare your answers

The hiring manager will ask you a variety of questions to assess your suitability for the laboratory management role. Some of the common topics include your leadership style, your technical skills, your problem-solving skills, your communication skills, your conflict resolution skills, and your ethical standards. Prepare your answers using the STAR method, which stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. This will help you structure your responses in a clear and concise way, highlighting your actions and outcomes in specific scenarios.

4 Practice your interview

One of the best ways to prepare for a laboratory management interview is to practice your interview skills. You can do this by asking a friend, a colleague, or a mentor to conduct a mock interview with you. Alternatively, you can use online platforms or apps that simulate interview questions and provide feedback. Practice answering common and behavioral questions, as well as questions related to laboratory management. Pay attention to your body language, tone of voice, eye contact, and confidence level.

5 Prepare your questions

At the end of the interview, the hiring manager will likely ask you if you have any questions for them. This is your opportunity to show your enthusiasm, curiosity, and professionalism. Prepare some questions that reflect your interest in the laboratory management role and the employer. For example, you can ask about the expectations, challenges, opportunities, culture, or training of the laboratory. Avoid asking questions that are too personal, too generic, or too negative.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?