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• 1. Self Assessment
• 2. Research
  • 2.1 Career Trends
  • 2.2 Changes in Organizational Beliefs
  • 2.3 New Work in Alternatives
  • 2.4 Information Search
    • 2.4.1 Occupational Research
  • 2.5 Conducting Information Search
  • 2.6 Information Interviews
    • 2.6.1 Information Interview
    • 2.6.2 Information Interview
  • 2.7 Job Shadowing
  • 2.8 Gaining Experience
    • 2.8.1 Working Overseas
• 3. Decision-Making
• 4. Networks & Contacts
• 5. Work
• 6. Life/Work Planning

Step 2.6.2: Conducting an Information Interview

Examples of questions you can ask in an information interview include:

• On a typical day in this position, what do you do?

• Has the work changed recently due to technology, marketplace, competition, etc.?

• How did you find your job?

• How do you see jobs in this field changing in the future?

• How does your work contribute to the organization’s overall goals or mission?

• Is there a "career path" in your field?

• Is there a demand for people in this occupation?

• What are the basic prerequisites for jobs in this field?

• What do you like least/most about your job?

• What entry-level jobs are best for learning as much as possible?

• What is the salary for entry-level and more advanced positions in the field?

• What is your level of freedom to solve problems and take action on the job?

• What opportunities for advancement are there in this field?

• What part of this job do you find most satisfying? Most challenging?

• What personal qualities or abilities are important to being successful in this job?

• What potential downside do you see for this field in the future?

• From your perspective, what are the problems you see working in this field?

• What special advice would you give a person entering this field?

• What special knowledge, skills or experience did you have or need for this job?

• What training or education is required for this type of work?

• What types of training do companies offer persons entering this field?

• Which professional journals and organizations would help me learn more about this field?

• Who do you know that I should talk to next? When I call him/her, may I use your name?

• 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?

Remember

1. You requested the interview.

2. Be concise so as not to waste the person's time.

3. Allow the person an opportunity to provide additional information.

4. Be prepared to provide a "30-second commercial" about yourself. It is likely that you will be asked about your career interests and goals during the information interview.

5. Use a paper or electronic diary to keep track of your contacts and to make notes during your meetings. (You can continue to use the same log when you network.)

6. If you have not already seen the work area, ask for a tour.

7. Add more information to the notes you took during the interview.

8. Always send a thank-you letter promptly (within 1 day of the interview).

To continue with the next section, Step 2.7, click here.