Top 10 Questions to Ask in an Informational Interview
Are you looking to expand your professional network or gather career insights to prepare for your next job hunt? If so, conducting informational interviews with industry professionals can be a valuable source of information and connections.
An informational interview is a conversation between a job seeker and a professional in their desired field. The goal is to gather insights into the industry, learn about professional experiences, and receive advice on how to prepare for a career in that field.
However, the key to a successful informational interview is asking the right questions. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 questions to ask in an informational interview that will provide valuable information for your career planning.
1. What led you to your current position, and what do you enjoy most about it?
This open-ended question provides the interviewee an opportunity to share their professional journey and career experiences. Not only does it help you understand the potential career path, but it can also provide insights into the skills necessary to succeed in that specific role.
2. What are the current trends and challenges facing your industry?
Asking this question can give you a sense of the industry’s current landscape, the factors driving change, and potential opportunities or challenges that you may encounter in your future career.
3. What are the most important skills and qualities for success in your industry?
This question enables the interviewee to share their personal and professional experiences and provide insights into the essential attributes needed to succeed in the field.
4. What kinds of entry-level roles are available in your industry, and what do they entail?
This question can provide you with an understanding of the various entry-level opportunities available, including the experience or educational requirements for each position.
5. How do you recommend job seekers prepare for opportunities in your industry?
The answer to this question provides you with valuable advice on how to effectively prepare for a career in that field, including educational or experience requirements, certifications, or other ways to stand out from other candidates.
6. What are the most significant challenges facing new industry hires, and how do you recommend addressing them?
Knowing the challenges facing new hires in the industry enables you to be better prepared for those challenges yourself and learn how to mitigate them with the interviewee’s advice.
7. How do you stay up-to-date with industry trends and changes?
Asking this question provides you with valuable insights into resources and techniques that can be used to keep current with industry changes and new developments.
8. What advice would you give to those considering pursuing a career in your industry?
This question helps to round out the interview, providing you with the opportunity to ask for advice on next steps, educational or experience requirements, or other key factors for success in that industry.
9. What are some of the most rewarding experiences you’ve had in your career?
Asking this question can provide you with insights into the interviewee’s personal and professional experiences in the industry, highlighting potential opportunities or challenges you may face when pursuing a career in that field.
10. What other professionals or resources do you recommend I speak with to learn more about this industry?
Asking this question provides you with potential avenues to continue to gather information and build your professional network in the industry.
In conclusion, asking thoughtful questions during an informational interview can provide you with valuable insights into a potential career, and help build your professional network. Use these top 10 questions to ask in an informational interview as a guide to start preparing for your next career move.
