Questions to ask during networking meetings/informational interviews

Regarding the Career Path

~ Describe your career path. How did each job lead you to your next position?

~ How/why did you decide to pursue the career in which you are working?

~ How did you get your current job?

~ How do most people enter this profession?

~ What is the best way to find out about jobs in this field?

~ If you could start all over again, would you change your career path in any way?

~ If you decided to make a career change, what other fields would you consider? What are some related jobs and industries?

The Nature of the Work

~ What are your job responsibilities?

~ What is your role in the organization?

~ Could you describe a typical workday for me?

~ How much time do you spend dealing with people? Gathering, analyzing or organizing data? Using technology?

~ What portion of your day is spent working independently? Working on teams?

~ What abilities are important for success and enjoyment in your field? What values are important? What personal attributes are important?

~ What skills are required in your position on a day-to-day basis?
What parts of your job do you find most challenging?

~ Despite these challenges, what motivates you to stay? What do you find most enjoyable?

~ How has your work affected your lifestyle?

~ How often do you work past 6 PM and on weekends? Is traveling required?

Job Outlook

~ What is the employment outlook in your field? Describe new developments.

~ What developments on the horizon could affect future opportunities?

~ Are too many or too few people entering this profession?

~ Why do people leave this field or company?

~ How frequently do layoffs occur in the industry?

~ Who are the most influential people in the industry today?

~ Which companies have the best track record for promoting women and minorities?

~ How does your company compare with others we’ve discussed?

~ Are there opportunities for self-employment in your field?

Education and Experience

~ What qualifications do you seek in a new hire? What skills would make someone stand out among other job hunters?

~ What educational preparation would you recommend for someone who wants to advance in this field?

~ How do you stay current in your field?

~ Is a graduate degree important? If so, what fields of study are helpful?

~ What advice do you have for students who are preparing to enter your field?
Can you recommend any courses/training I should take before furthering my job search?

~ How can students find summer jobs or internships in your field? Are there other means of gaining experience before graduation?

~ Salary and Advancement

~ What starting salaries/salary advancements can one expect?

~ What is the career ladder for this position?

~ Where can someone in an entry-level position expect to be in two years? Five years? Ten years?

~ To get promotions, is changing jobs/companies necessary or recommended?

~ What is the background of most managers/executives?

Sources for Additional Information

~ Can you recommend sources for more information (professional organizations, specific books, trade publications, journals)?

~ Do you know of other professionals with whom I might speak for more information about this field? When I call may I use your name?

~ Would you mind looking at my resume and offering feedback?

~ How important is the resume and what makes one impressive?

~ Is there anything else you think I need to know?