Top 10 Must-Ask Questions in an Informational Interview
Are you someone who gets the jitters just thinking about an interview? Or are you someone who has given countless interviews but still doesn’t seem to have perfected the art? An informational interview can provide you with valuable insights and knowledge on a particular field or industry. By having an informational interview, you can learn about the potential career path you are considering, the company culture, and the industry as a whole. But, to make the most of your informational interview, there are some important questions you must ask. Here are the top 10 must-ask questions in an informational interview.
1. Can You Tell Me About Your Role in the Company?
This question will help you understand how the individual’s work contributes to the organization. You can also learn about the skills required in the role, the level of responsibility associated with the job, and the important aspects of the job that make it challenging but also rewarding.
2. What Does a Typical Day Look Like in Your Role?
Asking this question can help you understand the work environment, daily challenges, and possible rewards associated with the job. This question can also help you evaluate if this job fits your skill set, interest, and lifestyle.
3. Can You Tell Me About a Recent Project You Worked On?
By asking this question, you can get an in-depth understanding of a project that the company or industry has worked on, the process they followed, and the outcomes they achieved. This dialogue can also help you understand the importance of collaboration, communication, and project management in the field.
4. What Qualifications Do You Think Are Needed for Success in This Industry?
Ask this question to learn about the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience required to succeed in this field. With this information, you can begin to assess if you have the qualifications necessary to excel and thrive in the industry.
5. What Do You Like Most About Your Job?
Asking this question can help you understand the personal satisfaction that the individual has gained from the job. Knowing the rewards and job satisfaction can give you a good idea of what you might find rewarding and meaningful about the job.
6. What Are the Biggest Challenges in Your Role?
Understanding the potential difficulties of any job is crucial as it can help you prepare for and plan for potential challenges. Learning about these can also aid you in determining if the job is a good fit for you.
7. Can You Tell Me About the Company Culture?
Knowing the company culture can aid you in determining if the company environment will meet your needs. It is important to ask about the company’s values, work ethics, communication policies, and social dynamic to determine if it aligns with what you want in a work environment.
8. What Do You Consider to Be the most Important Skills for New Recruits?
This is a critical question to ask as it can aid you in tailoring your resume and cover letter to meet the required skills and competencies.
9. What Opportunities Are Available for Professional Development?
Knowing the opportunities for professional development in your target company can aid in building a potential career trajectory in the industry.
10. Are There Any Projects or Activities You Recommend to Get an Idea of the Industry?
By asking this question, you can gain an understanding of the industry’s most important projects, readings, research, and training. This additional knowledge and exposure can strengthen your application and provide a starting point for career development.
Conclusion
An informational interview can give you the opportunity to learn from professionals and gather helpful insights into a field or industry. By asking the right questions, you can learn how to grow professionally, improve your application procedures and assess if this industry or company is right for you. The top 10 must-ask questions in an informational interview can give you an edge and enable you to make the most of your opportunity. With the help of these questions, you can be one step ahead in your career journey.
