In today’s world, informational interviews have become a popular method of gathering information about a particular job, industry, or company. An informational interview is an interview between a job seeker and a professional who works in their desired field. Unlike a job interview, the goal of an informational interview isn’t to land a job, but to gain information and insights into a particular field.
To make the most of an informational interview, it’s important to ask the right questions. Below are some of the best questions to ask during an informational interview:
1. Can you tell me about your background and how you got into this field?
Starting with this question helps break the ice and gives the person being interviewed a chance to share their experience in the field. It provides valuable insights on their journey, challenges they faced, and how they achieved their current position.
2. What does a typical day look like for someone in this field?
This question gives an idea of what day-to-day work looks like for professionals in the field. It also helps the interviewee to understand whether this type of work suits them and aligns with their career goals.
3. What are some of the skills required to succeed in this field?
This question helps to uncover the hard and soft skills that are essential for success in the field. It helps the interviewee to identify any skill gaps they need to fill and realize the skills they already possess.
4. What are the biggest challenges facing the industry right now?
Asking this question helps to understand the industry’s current landscape and helps the interviewee to be aware of potential challenges and opportunities in the field.
5. What advice would you give to someone just starting out in this field?
Asking for advice is an excellent way to learn from someone with experience. It provides insights into how to navigate the field and sets up a framework for achieving success.
In conclusion, informational interviews are a great way to learn about a particular field. However, to get the most benefit from the interview, it’s essential to prepare a list of questions beforehand. The five questions mentioned above are a great place to start and will help to uncover valuable insights into the field. Remember, an informational interview is an opportunity to learn, so don’t be afraid to ask follow-up questions and engage in meaningful discussion.
(Note: Do you have knowledge or insights to share? Unlock new opportunities and expand your reach by joining our authors team. Click Registration to join us and share your expertise with our readers.)
Speech tips:
Please note that any statements involving politics will not be approved.