When networking or conducting informational interviews, use open-ended questions to create an engaging conversation.
Be strategic and do not ask questions that are too personal.
To prepare for these discussions, create a key list of questions that will allow you to navigate the conversation. Here are some questions to get you started.
What to ask in your informational interview:
Tasks and Responsibilities
- What does a typical workday look like?
- Could you tell me about your work or a recent project?
- What aspect of your job do you find most challenging/rewarding?
- Do you more often work individually or as part of a team?
- Can you describe the typical work/life balance in this field?
Preparation for Career Path
- How did you become interested in this field?
- Is there anything you wished you knew before entering this field?
- What do you think is the best academic preparation for this profession?
- What are the qualifications you look for in a new hire?
- Are there any internship experiences you might recommend or other ways to gain exposure to this field/industry?
- What are the opportunities for promotion and advancement?
- Could you recommend other people I should speak within the field to learn more? May I use your name when reaching out?
Industry Knowledge
- What industry publications would you recommend I read to help keep me informed of developments in this field?
- What are the entry-level roles?
- Is the advice you have passed on to me regarding this sector typical of the industry, or is it specific to your organization?
- Are there any professional associations that you are part of or suggest I join?
- Where do you see this industry going in the next 5 years?
Workplace Culture
Before asking some of the following questions, we encourage you to do some preliminary research to dig further when speaking to someone at an organization you hope to work for.
- What is the composition of their leadership team or board of directors?
- What actions is the organization taking to support their employees?
After you do your preliminary research, you’re ready to connect with someone at the organization and dig into some of the topics below.
- How does leadership support and reflect the company’s values?
- How are those values communicated with and shared with employees?
- How does the organization demonstrate an inclusive environment? Does it feel inclusive?
- What support, initiatives, and/or training are in place for employees once they have joined your organization? ( i.e., onboarding processes, affinity groups, mentorship programs, leadership development, etc.).
- How active are employees within the areas? What are the expectations for staff engagement in this work?
- What is the organization doing to support its commitment to diversity and inclusion outlined on its website?