Questions to Ask
In an informational interview, you need to determine what it is exactly that you want from your contact. You should prepare a list of questions in advance of your informational interview that is tailored to your specific situation. The following are some sample questions:
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On a typical day in this position, what do you do?
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What training or education is required for this type of work?
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What personal qualities or abilities are important to being successful in this job?
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What part of this job do you find most satisfying? Most challenging?
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How did you get into your field? Into this particular job?
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If I wanted to obtain a similar job, how would you suggest I go about it?
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Where might I find job listings?
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Is there a demand for people in this occupation?
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What entry-level jobs are best for learning as much as possible about this field?
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What opportunities for advancement are there in this field?
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In your opinion, is this a rapidly growing field?
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How do you see jobs in this field changing in the future?
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What special advice would you give a person entering this field?
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What types of training do companies offer persons entering this field?
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What are the basic prerequisites for jobs in this field?
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What further steps should I be taking to develop my own niche in this area?
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What can I do to make myself more marketable to employers in this field?
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What types of courses are most valuable in order to gain the skills necessary to succeed in this field?
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What kind of work or internship experience would an employer look for in an applicant for this type of work? How can a person obtain this type of work experience?
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What are the key points to include in a resume or cover letter for a position in this field?
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Which professional journals and organizations would help me learn more about this field?
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What do you think of the experience I have had so far in terms of entering this field?
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From your perspective, what are the problems you see about working in this field?
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If you could do things all over again, would you choose the same path for yourself? Why? What would you change?
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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?
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What do you think of my resume? Do you see any problem areas? How would you suggest I change it?
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Can you suggest any other people who might be valuable sources of information and who would be willing to speak with me? When I call him or her, may I use your name?
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Are there any seminars, conferences or member organizations in your field that might be appropriate for someone with my background and professional goals? (Note: events of this type are often free of charge in Washington, D.C.)
