{"id":6385,"date":"2024-10-10T20:29:32","date_gmt":"2024-10-10T20:29:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/careers.bms.com\/blog\/\/"},"modified":"2025-01-21T19:40:30","modified_gmt":"2025-01-21T19:40:30","slug":"acing-the-early-career-interview-4-tips-to-help-you-prepare-and-stand-out","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/careers.bms.com\/global-pt\/blog\/acing-the-early-career-interview-4-tips-to-help-you-prepare-and-stand-out\/","title":{"rendered":"Acing the Early Career Interview: 4 Tips to Help You Prepare and Stand Out (video)"},"content":{"rendered":"
\"BMS
Andria Armato, Early Career Talent Manager at BMS<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

We\u2019re committed to growing and shaping the careers of the next generation of ambitious, innovative professionals and value the fresh perspectives that early career candidates bring to the table. To support early career candidates during peak application and interview season \u2014 which runs late summer through October \u2014 we sat down with Andria Armato, Early Career Talent Manager for Information Technology and Digital Programs at Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS), a leading global biopharmaceutical company.<\/p>\n

Having worked as a recruiter in many business sectors, Andria saw an opportunity to put \u201ca human element to talent acquisition\u201d by joining BMS. Andria also enjoys working with early career candidates and seeks out the unique points of view they bring to an organization. Here and in the video at the end, she shares four key insights for helping early career candidates ace the interview process.<\/p>\n

1. Explore Opportunities and Make Connections<\/h4>\n

As a first step, Andria encourages students at the undergraduate and graduate levels to explore programs that are tailored for them \u2014 opportunities like internships, co-ops, rotational programs and more. Candidates can start by exploring the careers.bms.com website and visiting the student opportunities page<\/a>. \u201cThere you\u2019ll find information and requirements on our different programs, as well as success stories from alumni, previous interns and some of our current associates,\u201d said Andria. \u201cWe also encourage candidates to reach out to our Talent Acquisition team. Email us at University.Programs@bms.com<\/a>, or reach out to us over LinkedIn. We are always happy to connect.\u201d<\/p>\n

Fizza Naqvi, DigITal Accelerator Development Program Associate at BMS, explored BMS\u2019 early career opportunities through our rotational program, and then advanced from intern to full-time associate. \u201cThe rotational program showed me that BMS is a great place to work,\u201d said Fizza. \u201cFor someone who is early on in their career, you get exposure to the various areas within the pharmaceutical industry. BMS invests heavily in their people and that\u2019s something that I’ve consistently seen \u2014 they\u2019re committed to helping people develop in their careers while making sure that every employee is having the best experience possible.\u201d<\/p>\n

2. Use the STAR Method to Develop Your Answers<\/h4>\n

When preparing their applications, Andria encourages applicants to utilize the STAR method interview technique. This four-step process prompts candidates to describe the Situation; their Task in it; the Action they took; and the Results they achieved. The STAR method is beneficial because it helps you prepare your thoughts, tell a memorable story, and demonstrate why you are a strong fit for the opportunity or role.<\/p>\n

During the interview process, it\u2019s important to be clear and succinct when discussing each step. Have examples that support you at each step, and share specifics around those examples. Finally, be ready to discuss how your contributions made a difference.<\/p>\n

3. Bring Your Curiosity and Willingness to Learn<\/h4>\n

\u201cWhen you’re truly at your best,\u201d said Andria, \u201cyou do your best work.\u201d During the interview process, make it clear that you are ready to learn and grow. Share how you have worked to acquire new skills and are eager to continue your development. Andria noted that BMS emphasizes continuous learning, professional growth, a strong sense of purpose, and ensuring that each employee \u201cfeels connected to the goal of transforming patients\u2019 lives through science through the work they’re doing.\u201d<\/p>\n

It\u2019s also important to demonstrate how your curiosity, enthusiasm and eagerness to grow your skillset directly supports the company\u2019s mission. \u201cIt’s been amazing to work with like-minded people,\u201d said Fizza. \u201cScience and the mission of the company are things that I\u2019m very passionate about and having the opportunity to be around people who want the same thing and are moving toward that same goal \u2014 plus the ability to get advice from people who have been in the industry for many years \u2014 has been very exciting for me.\u201d<\/p>\n

4. Let Your Authentic Self Shine<\/h4>\n

Above all, Andria encourages applicants to be their true, authentic selves. \u201cAt BMS, we hire according to the business needs, but we also hire based on the individual \u2014 what we see that they can uniquely bring to the organization,\u201d said Andria. \u201cThat’s why I stress to anyone that is interviewing \u2014 whether they\u2019re early career or a seasoned vet \u2014 the best thing that you can do is be yourself.\u201d<\/p>\n

Authenticity is a key word that Andria uses to describe BMS\u2019 culture to candidates. \u201cOur culture is defined by our commitment to collaboration and delivering innovative medicines that are going to help our patients,\u201d said Andria. \u201cAs a company, we foster an inclusive and diverse environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their unique talents and perspectives.\u201d<\/p>\n

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