Lab manager interview questions answers

In this article, we explore some of the most common interview questions asked during a laboratory manager interview along with some great answers to help you win the job.

Interview Questions for Laboratory Managers:

What safety procedures do you follow if a sample spills on the ground? …
What experience do you have with laboratory information systems? …
How do you handle hazardous gas? …
How do you ensure that lab time is allocated fairly? …
How do you maintain multiple records in a lab?

Lab Manager Interview Questions

Lab Manager Interview Questions Answers

What is the one thing that motivates you to work at this position?

On a daily basis, it is the end result of my labor that is a great motivator. Since I am a stickler for perfection, I find it to be quite a charge when a job is well done.

What have been your prime duties in the role of a laboratory manager in the past?

As a laboratory manager, I have been responsible for a lot of duties including creating schedules for lab personnel, providing them with basic and advanced training to lead procedures, overseeing their work to ensure that they are working along the right path, ascertaining that all results are accurate, and filed properly, making sure that sufficient supplies, instrumentation, and equipment are available, and ensuring that safety measures are properly being followed.

Speaking of safety, where do you rate it on a scale of 1 to 10, 10 being the highest?

I would give it a 10. For me, safety at the workplace holds a great place, and I make sure that all procedures are carried out in a safe manner, by following all protocols and procedures.

What skills do you possess which make you a good contender to hire as a laboratory manager?

I am an extremely organized individual, who possesses exceptional skills in overseeing the work of a busy laboratory. Since I am experienced in handling laboratory procedures, I know just what to do, and how to go about doing it. My knowledge of specimen testing procedures and processes is quite profound, as is my ability to handle problems associated with this work. In addition to this, I am a professional when it comes to handling reporting work, and ensuring that safety measures are properly taken into consideration, during all processes and procedures.

Can you recall a time when your skills saved the day?

The lab that I was managing was testing a new drug for cancer, when one of the techs managed to create a huge blowup! Coincidentally, I was on a round at that time, and I managed to blow out the fire before it could reach the cupboard where we kept the specimens, or harm anyone in the laboratory. It was quite an experience, and I believe that it was my presence of mind that saved the day!

What does quality control mean to you?

I believe that quality control is paramount when working in a laboratory environment. It means everything to me, and I strive hard to make sure that quality control in maintained all through.

As a laboratory manager, what is your management style?

Answer tips:

Try to avoid labels.

Some of the more common labels, like progressive, consultative, persuasive, can have several meanings or descriptions depending on which management guru you listen to.

The situational style is safe, because it says you will manage according to the situation, instead of one size fits all.

Answer samples

In my experience delegating responsibility and authority is crucial. A team needs to be able to develop and grow as individuals and a whole, not be held back by low expectations or ego.

I believe in building a team. Each member of the team should be clear on their role, know where they fit in and feel as though they can depend on one another. I also believe in real-time feedback. If you do something wrong you should know it immediately. Regardless of right or wrong, the further removed feedback is in time, the less effective it is.

Our field is always changing. As such, what have you done with regards to personal development when it comes to our posted LAB MANAGER POSITION in the last 12 months?

Answer tips:

Here is an opportunity for you to showcase a wide variety of things you may have done both personally and professionally that will get your potential employers interested. Be sure to think about this one in advance in the event that it comes up.

Keep in mind, one of the key things that employers look for is an applicant who is self motivated and goal oriented.

Even if you don’t have something that is specific to the role you are applying for, don’t be afraid to list hobbies or other non-work related activities here. Again, this shows your employer you are the go-getter they are looking for.

In the end, you want to ensure that you are leaving your interviewer with the impression that you are motivated, self sufficient, and manage your time effectively.

Answer samples

In polling hundreds of different companies & HR departments, this is by far one of the most frequently asked questions in any job interview. Your interviewer will use this as an icebreaker, ideally to put you at ease and get you speaking openly and honestly.

While you definitely want to be prepared for this question, you certainly don’t want to make your answer sound memorized. Keep in mind, while this question may sound like an invitation to share your life story, you can be assured your interviewer has very little interest in hearing about everything you’ve ever done.

The person giving the interview has a job to do as well – respect their time. Unless you are asked about something specific, focus on your education, your work history, relatable hobbies and outside interests, as well as your current situation.

Be sure to start chronologically and tell a linear story. Start where you feel is sensical, then work your way up to the present.

Do you have any questions?

This one you can almost be assured will be asked, and you better have some ready.

By asking questions you demonstrate initiative, and show that you care enough about the job to have done some research. Ask questions that focus on areas where you can be an asset. Beyond this, other questions may be more direct including productivity, expectations, training, and other logistics. All this being said, try and limit the questions to no more than three or four.

Lastly you’ll want to ask about the next step in the process and when to expect to hear about the position.

Top job interview materials:

For more details, please click links below:

FAQ

What skills do lab managers need?

Essential Skills for Lab Managers

Leadership. Not all managers are leaders. …
Communication. …
Laboratory Managers Should Be Good Planners. …
Incredible Conflict Resolution Skills. …
Financial Management Skills. …
Innovation Skills. …
Occupational Health and Safety Awareness. …
Exceptional Meeting Skills.

What are good interview questions for a manager position?

The lab manager needs to be willing and able to make critical decisions and to inspire the team with their well thought out, logical judgements. Finally, maintain motivation and enthusiasm amongst your team.

What questions should I ask my lab director?

Here’s a bunch of general interview questions at a manager level you should take a look at:

Tell me about yourself.
Tell me something that’s not on your resume.
Tell me about a time you made a mistake.
Tell me about a conflict you faced at work and how you dealt with it.
What type of work environment do you prefer?