The Informed Interview: A Resource for Pharmacy Leaders.

Abstract

The Director's Forum Series is designed to guide pharmacy leaders in establishing patient-centered services in hospitals and health systems. As burnout and workforce turnover continues to rise, pharmacy leaders find themselves in high-stakes interviews that are part performance, part investigation. This article reframes the interview process as an opportunity for candidates to assess the institutional culture, leadership expectations, and long-term alignment. It explores the structure and intent of stakeholder interviews, emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence and curiosity, and provides a framework for asking strategic questions. A curated appendix offers strategic sample questions tailored to pharmacy leadership roles. Pharmacy administration candidates are encouraged to approach interviews as meaningful opportunities to gather insight and determine whether a role aligns with their values, goals, and leadership vision.