Hiring the right pharmacy technician for your drugstore team can have a great impact on your business success. Pharmacy technicians are very important in the process of refilling, taking care of patients and customers and making sure the pharmacy runs smoothly.
The proper interview questions are crucial when searching for a new pharmacy technician. Asking questions that will determine whether the candidate is qualified, experienced, and will be a great cultural fit is a must. Here are some key questions to ask pharmacy technician candidates before making your hiring decision:
Could you please tell me about your experience as a pharmacy technician?
It is very important to gauge the hands-on pharmacy dispenser experience. It is good to know the details such as how long they worked there, what specific skills they learned and what tasks they carried out on a daily basis.
Some essential experiences for a technician in a pharmacy include serving patients at the counter, entering prescription details into the computer system, measuring drugs for dispensing, compounding drugs like creams or pills, and administrative duties such as inventory management. Try to find out what their expertise is in all main areas that will be necessary for a pharmacy technician position.
What is the reason why you are applying for this pharmacy technician position?
The candidate’s career motivations would give an account of their passion for pharmacy and their aspiration to grow along the line of duty. An enthusiastic, engaged technician will be highly vested in giving outstanding customer service and assistance to the pharmacist. Seek for an applicant who had shown a great interest in healthcare, interacting with patients, and increasing knowledge during the interview process.
How comfortable are you using pharmacy management systems?
Pharmacy technology and management systems are crucial tools for the job. From computerized prescription systems to inventory databases, technicians must use technology daily. Ask candidates about specific pharmacy tech programs they have used in previous jobs. Look for basic computer skills and an ability to learn new programs quickly. Hands-on experience with common pharmacy systems makes a more valuable hire.
Tell me about a time you made a process more efficient.
Pharmacy operations include many moving parts and details. Sharp technicians will find ways to enhance processes to save time and reduce errors. During interviews, listen for examples of how they improved everyday processes like prescription drop-offs, medication fills, inventory audits, etc. Their ability to spot inefficient workflows and come up with solutions shows valuable critical thinking skills.
How do you stay up-to-date on pharmacy practices, medications, and regulations?
Pharmacy is a field that requires continuous learning. Licensing and certification standards evolve regularly. Medications and formulations frequently change as new drugs are approved. Ask candidates how they stay current on pharmacy best practices to provide knowledgeable customer service.
Ask if they read industry magazines, take continuing education courses, or maintain active pharmacy technician certification. Making the right pharmacy technician hiring for your organization requires careful screening. Keep this list of insightful interview questions handy to help assess candidates.
Thoughtful, well-planned interviews will help you find exactly the right person to join your pharmacy staff and contribute to continued success. With a knowledgeable and dedicated pharmacy technician on your team, your customers will keep coming back and referring friends.
