It probably comes as no surprise that 90% of hiring managers say that preparation is a key factor in interviewing well. The moment you join a call or step into the room, hiring teams are already observing your confidence and clarity. That level of presence rarely happens by accident. Preparation is what helps you communicate your story with intention rather than improvisation, ensuring your answers feel thoughtful rather than off-the-cuff.
"If you walk in without any preparation, you have already placed yourself at a disadvantage before you even say a word," explains Anna Chen, recruiter at IQVIA.
Wondering how exactly to prepare? Here are five activities IQVIA recruiters recommend before every interview.
Research: Know the company mission and recent news. We love when candidates mention our latest initiatives, like our global impact stories or AI capabilities!
Pick 3 stories: Select at least three impactful stories from your career and think through how you will share them succinctly and with resonance. Focus on outcomes, not responsibilities.
Pick 3 questions: Be prepared with three smart questions about the team’s goals, challenges or future plans. We love when candidates stand out as curious and strategic.
Practice: Even experienced candidates should practice in a mirror or with a friend. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method in your answers. A great, well-explained answer can be a differentiator.
Know the panel: Look up your interviewers on LinkedIn to understand their role and think about how to tailor answers in a way that will resonate. You might even find a common interest to connect on!
These tips can be the bridge between being a good candidate and being the right hire, allowing you to move past surface-level answers and engage in a high-level strategic conversation.
“Think of it as an investment in your competence, your clarity and your career advancement. A few focused hours can be the difference between a missed opportunity and a job offer,” says Anna.
Virtual learning activities. On-the-job training. Mentorship. And more. A CRA career at IQVIA means unlocking access to best-in-class training and unlimited possibilities to pursue your unique passions.
Watch as IQVIA alumni came together for an evening of reconnections and reflections — celebrating lasting bonds, shared memories and what makes our community special.
Celina Buelga is intimately familiar with the impact of IQVIA’s work and the power clinical research has on patient lives.
