What Do I Ask in an Informational Interview?
No matter what stage of the job search you are in, informational interviewing can be one of the most helpful tools in the process. Haven’t heard of informational interviewing before? These brief conversations are with networking connections and professionals, lasting about 30 minutes, in which you direct the topics discussed. They will allow you to gain insight and learn from others in your field, identify companies you want to one day work for, explore possible career paths, and other considerations that may assist you in your own journey. To conduct these informational interviews, consider reaching out to people in roles that you could see yourself holding in your own career, individuals that you have met through professional organizations, events, or conferences, and anyone else that you feel could provide valuable information to help you in your job search and career development. These conversations should be centered around making a strong networking connection and learning more about the person and their own career path, rather than asking for a job or internship. With this in mind, we’ll be diving into possible questions that you can ask to conduct productive informational interviews.
About the Industry
- Are there currently any trends in the industry that I should be aware of?
About the Company
- What is your favorite part of working at this company?
- How would you describe the company culture?
- What types of skills or experience will allow someone to be successful at this company?
About their Role
- What is a typical day like in your role?
- What kinds of projects are you working on currently?
- What is the most rewarding part of your job?
- Do you spend most of your time working independently or collaborating with others?
About the Interviewee's Career Path
- Did you complete any internships or co-ops early in your career? If so, how did these experiences help prepare you for the role you have now?
- Were there any classes or extracurricular activities that you feel helped prepare you for your career?
- What drew you to this career?
- What drew you to this industry?
Advice for You
- What skills do you suggest someone early in their career develop to prepare them for future success?
- How can I best prepare myself for success if I am hoping to pursue a role similar to your own?
- Are there any organizations, readings, or events I should consider to prepare myself for a career in this industry?
These questions are just some examples that can guide you in conducting your own informational interviews. Remember, the purpose of these conversations is NOT to ask for a job or internship! They are purely to help you make connections, learn, and gain information beneficial to your overall career. It is up to you to keep the conversation going, so having questions prepared beforehand is key. Never forget to follow up from these conversations with a prompt thank you for the person’s time and their willingness to talk with you. Be sure to maintain this new connection and put into action the useful information they have provided you with!
“You can teach a person all you know, but only experience will convince him that what you say is true.” –Richelle E. Goodrich