50 Questions to Ask in an Informational Interview

In the realm of career exploration and networking, informational interviews stand out as invaluable tools for gaining insights, advice, and perspective from seasoned professionals in your field of interest.

These conversations offer a unique opportunity to go beyond the surface and delve into the nuances of a particular industry or role. Crafting thoughtful questions is key to making the most of these interactions, and guiding the discussion towards valuable insights.

If you’re looking to switch careers or a are recent graduate navigating the job market, here are 30 questions to consider asking during an informational interview to deepen your understanding and make a lasting impression.

What is an informational interview?

An informational interview is a strategic conversation between a job seeker and a professional working in a field or industry of interest. Unlike a traditional job interview, which is focused on securing a specific position, the purpose of an informational interview is to gather information, insights, and advice.

It provides an opportunity for the job seeker to learn about a particular career path, industry trends, company culture, and the skills and experiences that are valued in the field.

Through these conversations, job seekers can gain a better understanding of whether a certain career path aligns with their goals and values, as well as expand their professional network.

What’s the point of an informational interview?

The primary goal of an informational interview is to gather information and insights that can help the job seeker make informed decisions about their career path. By speaking with professionals who have firsthand experience in a particular field or role, job seekers can gain a realistic view of what it’s like to work in that industry.

They can learn about the day-to-day responsibilities, challenges, and opportunities in the field, which can help them determine if it’s a good fit for their skills, interests, and goals.

Additionally, informational interviews can help job seekers expand their professional network, gain advice and mentorship, and discover potential job opportunities that may not be advertised publicly.

What would you want to get out of an informational interview?

In an informational interview, you would ideally want to gain a deeper understanding of the industry or role you’re interested in. This includes learning about the skills, qualifications, and experiences that are valued in this field, as well as the challenges and opportunities it presents.

Moreover, you might seek advice on how to break into the industry, advance your career, or navigate specific challenges you’re facing. Ultimately, the goal is to gather insights that can help you make informed decisions about your career path and take meaningful steps toward your career goals.

How to ask for an informational interview

Asking for an informational interview can be a valuable step in your career exploration or job search. It’s essential to approach the request with professionalism and clarity.

Start by researching the individual you wish to interview and tailor your message to explain why you’re interested in speaking with them specifically. Be concise and respectful of their time, clearly stating your purpose for the meeting and how it aligns with their expertise.

Express your willingness to accommodate their schedule and offer to meet in person or virtually, whichever is more convenient for them. A well-crafted request can open doors to valuable insights and networking opportunities.

What to ask during an informational interview

During an informational interview, it’s important to ask thoughtful questions that can provide valuable insights into your career path or industry of interest. Focus on inquiries that delve into the interviewee’s experiences, such as their career journey, challenges they’ve faced, and key lessons learned.

Ask about industry trends advice for someone starting in the field, and recommendations for further learning or networking. These questions can help you gain a deeper understanding of the industry and make a positive impression on the interviewee.

Inquire about their daily responsibilities, the skills they find the most valuable in their role, and how they stay updated with industry changes. These questions can provide you with practical insights that you can apply to your career development.

What to NOT ask in an informational interview

There are certain questions you should avoid asking in an informational interview, such as job openings or directly asking for a job. Instead, focus on building a relationship and gathering information that can inform your career decisions.

Avoid asking overly personal questions or anything that could make the interviewee uncomfortable. Keep the conversation professional and focused on gaining insights relevant to your career aspirations.

Instead of asking questions that are easily answered with a quick Google search, try to ask open-ended questions that encourage the interviewee to share their unique perspectives and insights. This will make the conversation more engaging and valuable for both parties.

How to prepare for an informational interview

Preparing for an informational interview is a key step in ensuring a productive and meaningful conversation. Begin by researching the person you’ll be speaking with and their background, as well as their company and industry trends. This will help you ask informed questions and demonstrate genuine interest.

Prepare a list of open-ended questions that show your curiosity about their experiences and insights. Practice active listening skills and be ready to take notes during the interview to capture important points. Dress professionally, even for virtual interviews, to convey respect for the opportunity.

Finally, follow up with a thank-you email expressing your appreciation for their time and insights, and consider connecting with them on LinkedIn to maintain the relationship.

What do I need to know before an informational interview?

Before an informational interview, it’s essential to gather relevant information to ensure a productive conversation. Research the individual you’ll be speaking with, including their professional background, achievements, and current role.

Understanding their expertise will help you tailor your questions and make the most of their insights. Research their company and industry to understand current trends and challenges.

This background knowledge will not only impress the interviewee but also help you ask more targeted and relevant questions. By being well-prepared, you’ll make a positive impression and gain valuable insights into your career interests.

50 informational interview questions

Coming up with open-ended questions for an informational interview can be a challenge. We’ve discussed the best practices for crafting these questions, so here are 50 examples to inspire you:

Job responsibility questions

Can you walk me through a typical day in your role?
What are the main responsibilities of your position?
How do you prioritize your tasks and manage your time?
What are the biggest challenges you face in your job?
How do you collaborate with team members and other departments?
Can you describe a project you’ve worked on that you found particularly interesting or challenging?
What skills do you think are most important for someone in this role?
How does your role contribute to the overall goals of the company?
What opportunities are there for growth and advancement in your position?
How do you stay updated with industry trends and developments?

Career development questions

What advice would you give to someone looking to enter this field?
How did you get started in your career, and how has your journey evolved?
What are some key milestones or experiences that have shaped your career?
Have you pursued any additional education or certifications to advance in your career?
How do you see this industry evolving in the next 5-10 years, and how can I prepare?
What skills or experiences do you think are crucial for someone looking to progress in this field?
Are there any networking or professional development opportunities you recommend?
How do you approach work-life balance in your career?
What advice do you have for someone interested in transitioning to a new role or industry?
How important is mentorship in your career, and have you had any impactful mentors?

Skills and experience questions

What skills do you use most frequently in your role?
How do you continue to develop and improve your skills?
Can you tell me about a time when you had to learn a new skill quickly for a project?
What technical skills or tools are essential for success in this field?
How do you stay updated with changes and advancements in your industry?
Can you share any resources or courses you recommend for skill development?
What soft skills do you think are most valuable in your role?
Can you describe a situation where your communication skills were particularly important?
How do you approach problem-solving and decision-making in your work?
How do you manage and adapt to change in your work environment?

Culture questions

How would you describe the company culture here?
What do you enjoy most about working for this company?
How does the company support employee well-being and professional development?
Can you share any team-building or social activities that the company organizes?
How does the company promote diversity, equity, and inclusion?
What opportunities are there for employees to provide feedback or contribute ideas?
How does the company encourage innovation and creativity among its employees?
What is the leadership style within the company, and how does it impact the culture?
How does the company recognize and reward employee contributions?
How would you describe the level of collaboration and teamwork within the organization?

Industry-specific questions

What are some current trends or challenges in the industry?
How has the industry changed in recent years, and how do you see it evolving?
What are some key factors that drive success in this industry?
How does this industry impact the broader economy or society?
Are there any specific regulations or policies that are important to be aware of in this industry?
What are some common misconceptions people have about this industry?
How do you stay informed about developments and news in the industry>
Can you recommend any industry publications or websites for further reading?
What are some entry-level roles or career paths within this industry?
How does this industry compare to others in terms of growth and stability?

Please feel free to customize these questions to align with your specific interests and the context of your informational interview.

Should you follow up after an informational interview?

Yes, you should always follow up after an informational interview. Following up can be a great way to express gratitude and keep the connection alive. Sending a thank-you email shortly after the interview is a good practice, as it shows your interest in the field or industry and mentions any key takeaways from the conversation.

You can also use this opportunity to ask any additional questions that may have come up after the interview. A follow-up email can help you stay on the interviewee’s radar and potentially lead to further networking or mentorship opportunities down the line.

How do you turn an informational interview into a job?

Turning an informational interview into a job opportunity requires a strategic approach. During the interview, focus on building a genuine connection with the interviewee and showcasing your interest and enthusiasm for the field or industry.

After the interview, follow up with a thank-you email and continue to stay in touch by sharing relevant articles or updates. If a job opportunity arises within the interviewee’s company or network, you can express your interest and inquire about the application process.

Consider asking for advice on how to best position yourself for a job in the field. Networking and building relationships are key, so continue to nurture the connection even if a job opportunity doesn’t materialize immediately.

Why is networking important for your career?

Networking is important for your career advancement because it allows you to build relationships, gain insights, and discover new opportunities. Through networking, you can connect with professionals in your field who can provide mentorship, advice, and potential job leads.

Networking also helps you to stay updated with industry trends and developments, giving you a competitive edge. Additionally, networking can boost your confidence and expand your professional circle, opening doors to collaborations and partnerships.

By investing time in networking, you invest in your professional growth and create a strong foundation for future career success.

How to get the most out of informational interviews

To maximize the benefits of informational interviews, preparation is key. Start by researching the person you’ll be interviewing and their background, as well as their company and industry. Prepare a list of insightful questions that demonstrate your interest and curiosity.

During the interview, actively listen and take notes to capture valuable insights. After the interview, send a thank-you email to express your appreciation and continue to nurture the relationship. Keep in touch with the interviewee by sharing relevant updates or articles and consider offering your assistance or expertise in return.

By approaching informational interviews with a genuine interest in learning and building relationships, you can gain valuable insights and expand your professional network.

Share this post:

Remy Church

Turns out, becoming the Head of Marketing for a tech startup when I was just 24 was not enough of a challenge. Now, I'm on a mission to help other young professionals shine on paper and dominate in real life.