10 Essential Questions to Ask During an Informational Interview
In today’s competitive job market, it’s essential to be prepared and knowledgeable about the specifics of your desired career path. And when it comes to gaining insights into a particular company or industry, there’s no better way than to conduct informational interviews.
An informational interview is a conversation with an individual who is already working in the profession or company you aspire to join. It helps you gather relevant information that you can leverage to make more informed decisions about your career path.
But what questions are best to ask during an informational interview? Here are ten essential questions that you should be prepared to ask.
1. How did you prepare for your job, and what led you to this career path?
This question will help you understand how the person you’re interviewing arrived at their current position. Knowing their journey can inspire you and help you make more informed decisions about your career path.
2. What does a typical day look like in your position?
Understanding the daily tasks and responsibilities of a job is crucial information when considering if it’s the right fit for you. By learning about the role’s challenges, you can evaluate if you’re well-suited to take them on.
3. What skills are essential for success in this field or position?
This question helps you understand the critical skills necessary to succeed in your desired field. If you’re lacking in some essential areas, you can focus on developing them.
4. What are the challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in this role, and how did you overcome them?
Understanding the challenges of a role and how someone overcame them can provide invaluable insights on how to navigate the position successfully.
5. What is the working culture of your company/field, and how do people collaborate?
Understanding the work environment and how people interact in the workplace is key to finding a role and company that fits your personality and work style.
6. What qualities do you think are necessary for someone to be successful in this field or position?
By learning about the qualities that make someone successful in a role, you can tailor your skills and characteristics to fit the job and improve your chances of success.
7. What do you think sets your company/industry apart from others?
Knowing what sets a company or industry apart can give you insights into what you could expect by working there and if its style suits you.
8. What is the growth potential for someone in this field or position?
Understanding the growth opportunities in a position or company can help you make informed decisions about your long-term career goals and whether the job is right for you.
9. What advice would you give to someone interested in pursuing a similar career path?
Seek advice from those who have been in a similar position to gain insights and tips that could help guide your career path.
10. Can you recommend any other companies or individuals I should speak with?
Don’t be afraid to ask for connections. Expanding your network through informational interviews can lead to job opportunities and insider knowledge of a particular industry.
In summary, conducting informational interviews is a vital step to gaining insight into a career path or industry. Knowing the right questions to ask can help you glean valuable insights from those who have gone before you.
