Job Search - Sample Informational Interview Questions

Describe a typical workweek. What do you do on a day-to-day basis?

Describe your primary responsibilities.

Describe your working environment. Is it competitive, fast-paced, conservative, routine, etc.?

What do you like most about your work? Least?

Describe the rewards of your job as well as the problems/obstacles.

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

From your perspective, what are the problems you see working in this field, now and in the future?

What qualifications, skills, academic background, and personal qualities are required for this position?

How did you get started in this career/field? What factors played a role in your success? Would you do anything differently if you could start over?

What opportunities for advancement are there in this field?

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

What are the salary ranges for various levels in this field?

What are the current issues in the field?

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

What is the outlook for this industry/field? What areas have the most potential for expansion?

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

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

Do you know of anyone who works at company XYZ?

What specific advice would you give a person entering this field?

Can you refer me to other professionals in the field who might have additional information, advice, and suggestions? May I say you recommended them?