No More Excuses! 15 Questions To Ask During an Informational Interview

So if you have been reading this blog for any length of time you know that I am a huge fan of informational interviews. Why? Pressure is off, you find out if you would like a career before you get into it AND you grow your network and find valuable referrals.  You can’t go wrong!  So, after posting my 5 steps to an informational interview, I received a tweet from a reader asking for what types of questions you should ask during the interview.  So, here are some sample questions you should have all written down and ready to ask:

1. How did you become interested in this type of work?
2. How did you get your present job and what kind of experience and preparation helped you the most?
3. How is the economy affecting your job and industry?
4. What are the duties/functions/responsibilities in this position? What is a typical day like in your job?
5. How long have you worked in this field?
6. What do you like about your job?
7. What do you not like about your job?
8. What do you think is the most challenging, satisfying and stressful aspect of your work/career?
9. What are the important personal qualities or abilities for a person in your type of work?
10. What professional organizations would you recommend joining?
11. For someone like me who is considering this field, what would be you advice?
12. Do you know other people who I could also interview?
13. When I contact him/her, can I use your name as a referral?
14. Are there any books you suggest I read?
15. Are there any training courses that would be beneficial to me?

More tips:

The main purpose of an informational interview is to get information about a field of work from someone who is knowledgeable and experienced on it. Through the informational interview, you can start building your network. Preparation for an informational interview is very important. Always remember the appointment time and be prompt for your interview. Look your best but don’t be too casually dressed nor overdressed. Simple regular business attire is appropriate. (Remember that you can always do informational interviews over the phone too!)  Before the scheduled interview, make sure to know the name, title of their position, and be ready to give a fabulous elevator pitch to make a great first impression.

Know and research your career of interest so that you can construct intelligent questions. But remember, never ask for a job! Your time will come but it isn’t now!

To end an informational interview, always thank your interviewee for their time and help. Remember to email or send a thank you note to show your appreciation. The interviewee has taken time out of his/her busy schedule just to help you so never forget to tell him/her how they helped you and stay in touch!

‎To those that stay put, the world is but an imaginary place. but to the movers, the makers, and the shakers, the world is all around, an endless invitation.” – author unknown