Informational Interviewing: Questions to Ask

What is an informational interview? A one-on-one meeting you conduct to gain a better understanding of a specific field, position, or organization.

Here are some questions you can ask if you are conducting an informational interview:

  • What is a typical day like in your job? Is this typical of others in this field?
  • What do you like about your job?
  • What are the pressures, challenges, and frustrations of your work?
  • How did you get to your current position?
  • What kind of background do you have? Did it help you in this field?
  • What motivated you to pursue this work, and what motivates you to stay in it?
  • Are you able to balance work and family demands?
  • How do you stay current in your current knowledge?
  • What’s one thing you wished you had known before you started?
  • Do you belong to any professional associations? Are there any you would recommend I join?

  • What’s the culture like here?
  • What is the average turnover in this type of job?
  • What is the management style of this organization?
  • What values do you find in this job environment?
  • What technologies are integrated?
  • What is the philosophy of the company around flex time, sick leave, personal days, etc.?

  • What are some of the trends occurring in your industry?
  • What are current job prospects like?
  • Are there related fields I might want to look into?
  • What are employers looking for in this career (skills, education, experience)?
  • How would you recommend that someone break into this field?
  • Is there any other information you can offer to help me understand what it might be like to work in this sort of job?
  • What kind of experience (internships) would help guide me in this field?
  • What are the future trends for this field?

  • Can you recommend any other industry professionals for me to contact? If so, can I use your name in contacting the person?
  • What would you recommend I do at this point to get into this field?
  • What’s the best way to find out about jobs in this field?

Reminders

  • Informational interviews ARE NOT job interviews – but they can help build your skills!
  • Do your research on the individual, organization, and field first. Then reach out for a 15-30 minute meeting
    • If you are meeting in person offer to pay for their coffee etc.
  • Have your tools prepared: professional introduction, LinkedIn, resume, etc.
  • Send a thank you note after your meeting (this can be done over email)! Follow up if you connect with their referral

Have questions? Contact us at: careerservices@smumn.edu