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Informational Interview Questions

You should compile a list of informational interview questions you would like answered about a career field or organization beforehand. You'll get the most information from your interview if it's well planned. To help you prepare for your interview, here are some sample interview questions for your reference.

Informational Interview Questions About The Career Field:

How quickly is this field growing?
What types of position are most often found in this field?
What specific skills are needed to do this job?
What are the growth areas of this field?
What problems do you see regarding working in this career?
Is there a demand for people in this occupation?
What are the typical entry-level job titles and functions?
What opportunities for advancement are there in this field?
What kinds of people experience the greatest success in this field?
What are the salary ranges for various levels in this field?
What special advice would you give a person entering this field?
What do you think of the experience I've had so far in terms of entering this field?
What do you think of my resume? Do you see any problem areas? How would you suggest I change it?
Who do you know that I should talk to next? When I call him/her, may I use your name?

Informational Questions About The Organization:

What are the services, products, or functions of the organization?
Who are using the organization's services or products?
What's the typical career path from entry-level to top management?
Who are the competitors in this field?
What sets the company apart or distinguishes it from others in the same industry?
What are the projections for future development or new directions?
What's the organization's mission statement?
How would you describe the atmosphere at the company? Is it fairly formal or more laid-back and informal?
Why did you decide to work for this company?
What do you like most about this company?
How does the company evaluate your job performance?
How optimistic are you about the company’s future and your future with the company?

Informational Interview Questions About The Position:

What are the qualifications for entry-level and experienced positions?
On a typical day in this position, what do you do?
What entry level jobs are best for learning as much as possible?
What personal qualities or abilities are important to being successful in this job?
What part of this job do you find most satisfying? most challenging?
How much job security do you have in this position?
Do you have to put in much overtime or work on weekends?
Can you describe some of the toughest situations you’ve faced in this job.
To what extent do you interact with customers/clients?
How much flexibility do you have in determining how you perform your job?
Is your work primarily individual or predominately in groups or teams?
In what way did this type of work interest you and how did you get started?
With the information you have about my education, skills, and experience, what other fields or jobs would you suggest I research further before I make a final decision?

Informational Interview Questions About The Interviewee's Career Path:

What was your major in college?
What jobs and experiences have led you to your present position?
Which aspects of your background have been most helpful?
Where do you see yourself in five years?
If you could do things all over again, would you choose the same path for yourself? Why?

You can review these sample informational interview questions and tailor them into your own needs.

More readings and help on job interviews:

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Informational Interview Questions