Sample Informational Interview Questions

1. On a typical day in this position, what do you do?
2. What part of the job do you find most satisfying?
3. What part of the job do you find most challenging?
4. What personal qualities or abilities are important to be successful in this job?
5. What skills/training/education is required for this kind of work?
6. What opportunities for advancement are there in this field?
7. What entry-level jobs are best for learning about this field?
8. What was your career path to get to where you are?
9. What would you do differently if you were starting again?
10. What special advice would you give a person entering this field?
11. What professional journals and organizations would help me learn more about this field?
12. What is the demand for people in this field?
13. What do you think of my résumé?
14. What do you think of the experience I’ve had so far in terms of entering this field?
15. 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?
16. From your perspective, what are the problems you see working in this field?
17. How would you describe this organizations work environment?
18. How would you describe the organizations management practices?
19. Who do you know that I should talk to next?
When I call them, may I use your name?