Preparing for an interview for a Pharmacy Technician position? Anticipating the questions and having ready answers can make a significant difference. This guide provides you with 10 essential Pharmacy Technician interview questions, along with ideal responses to help you stand out from the competition.
| Job Description | A Pharmacy Technician assists pharmacists in dispensing medications and are accountable for stocking, assembling, and distributing prescription medication. They may also be responsible for managing insurance claims, customer service and administrative duties within a pharmacy. |
| Skills | Attention to detail, Strong communication skills, Mathematical skills, Customer service skills, Organizational skills, Knowledge of medication and dosage measurement |
| Industry | Healthcare, Pharmaceuticals |
| Experience Level | Entry level to Mid level |
| Education Requirements | High School Diploma or equivalent. Some states require a certification through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). |
| Work Environment | Pharmacy Technicians usually work in pharmacies, drug stores, hospitals, and grocery stores. They often stand for most of the day and work with pharmacists, assisting with medication inventory and helping patients with their prescriptions. |
| Salary Range | $25,000 – $50,000 per year |
| Career Path | Pharmacy Technicians can advance to become a Certified Pharmacy Technician. With further education and training, they can become a Pharmacist or specialize in areas such as chemotherapy, nuclear pharmacy, or managing a pharmacy. |
| Popular Companies | CVS Health, Walgreens, Walmart, Kaiser Permanente, Rite Aid |
Pharmacy Technician Interview Questions
Can you describe a situation where you had to deal with a difficult customer and how you handled it?
How to Answer:
This question is designed to test your interpersonal skills and ability to handle conflict. When answering, focus on the situation, the actions you took and the results. Be sure to highlight your communication skills, patience, and problem-solving abilities. Avoid blaming the customer, instead focus on how you were able to resolve the situation.
Example:
In my previous role, I had a customer who was upset because his prescription was not ready when he expected it to be. He was raising his voice and other customers were starting to notice. I remained calm, listened to his concerns, and apologized for the inconvenience. I then explained the situation, that there was an unexpected delay with our supplier. I offered to expedite the order for him and also gave him a direct line to call for future orders to avoid such delays. The customer appreciated my efforts and the situation was resolved peacefully.
How familiar are you with the pharmacy’s computer system and software?
How to Answer:
The interviewer wants to gauge your technical skills and familiarity with the software used in their pharmacy. Highlight any experience you have with specific pharmacy software systems. If you haven’t used their specific software, emphasize your ability to quickly learn new systems. You can also mention any related experience with other software or systems.
Example:
While I have not used your specific pharmacy software, I have experience with two different types of pharmacy software, including Rx30 and PioneerRx. I found both systems intuitive and was able to become proficient quickly. I’m confident in my ability to learn your system in a short time. Additionally, I have experience with other software systems such as Microsoft Office which has helped me develop strong technical skills.
How do you handle stress and pressure in the workplace, especially in a busy pharmacy setting?
How to Answer:
The interviewer wants to understand your stress management skills. Answer this question by explaining how you maintain your composure and professionalism during high-pressure situations. You can give examples of stress management techniques you use, like prioritizing tasks, taking short breaks, or seeking assistance when needed.
Example:
I understand that working in a pharmacy can be stressful due to high volumes of prescriptions and the need for accuracy. When I find myself under pressure, I focus on prioritizing tasks and managing my time effectively. For instance, if the pharmacy is busy, I focus on the most urgent prescriptions first while ensuring that each one is filled accurately. I also find that taking short breaks when possible helps me maintain my focus and composure. In addition, I’m not afraid to ask for help or delegate tasks when necessary to ensure that the workload is manageable for everyone.
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