Top 10 Questions to Ask During an Informational Interview

Top 10 Questions to Ask During an Informational Interview

An informational interview is a conversation with someone who is knowledgeable about a particular industry or company. It’s an opportunity for job seekers to learn more about a profession, a company culture, and its day-to-day operations. It’s not a job interview but rather a chance to develop a network and gather information. Here are the top ten questions to ask during an informational interview.

1) Can you tell me about your career path and how you got to your current position?

Asking about the interviewee’s career path is a great way to gain insight into the industry, how people typically enter and advance through it, and how the interviewee succeeded in their path. It’s also an excellent way to show the interviewee that you are interested in their personal story and values.

2) What are the most important skills and qualities necessary to succeed in this industry?

Discovering the skills and qualities necessary for success in the industry will help you identify the strengths and areas of growth needed to succeed in a future role. This question also shows your curiosity and eagerness to learn more about the profession.

3) What do you think the biggest challenges facing this industry are today?

Understanding the challenges that the industry faces and how professionals are working to overcome them will help you stay informed about the industry’s current trends and potentially new solutions that may emerge.

4) Can you describe the company culture here?

Asking about the company culture is crucial, as it helps you understand the values, beliefs, and behaviors of a company, how employees interact with each other, and how the team operates. You can also assess whether the company culture aligns with your values and work style.

5) What is your favorite thing about working in this industry?

This question is a great way to bring some positivity into the conversation, and it could provide an insight into how the interviewee became so passionate about their work. The answer may also help confirm if the industry is a good fit for you.

6) Can you tell me how technology is affecting this industry, and how do you see its development in the future?

As technology continues to advance, it’s essential to stay ahead of the curve and understand how it’s changing and impacting the industry. Technology affects everything from customer engagement, tools for communication, training opportunities, and job opportunities.

7) How would you describe a typical day in your position?

Understanding the daily responsibilities, tasks, and challenges of the industry and position will provide you with insight into what a future role in this industry could look like.

8) What advice would you give to someone starting in this industry?

Asking for advice shows that you value the interviewee’s opinion, experience, and expertise. You’ll also be given a list of actionable items to take to help you start your career off on the right foot.

9) What certifications or qualifications are typically required for this industry?

You can learn more about the essential qualifications, certifications, and level of education required to break into a particular industry and build a successful career.

10) What is a significant challenge in this industry that you have faced, and how did you overcome it?

This question allows the interviewee to share not only their struggles but also the solutions that they came up with to be successful. It’s also an excellent way to provide a strong ending to the conversation with extra motivation and inspiration.

Overall, an informational interview can provide you with valuable information regarding a particular profession or industry. It’s an opportunity to develop your professional network, learn about industry trends, and gather essential tips and advice to help you navigate your career path successfully. So don’t be afraid to ask questions and learn more—it could be the key to your future success.