Unlock the Power of Informational Interviews: The Top 10 Questions to Ask

Informational interviews are a game-changer for those seeking to gain valuable insights into their desired career path or industry. By tapping into the knowledge and experiences of professionals already in the field, you can gain a deeper understanding of what it truly takes to succeed. However, the key to making the most of these conversations lies in asking the right questions. In this article, we’ll unveil the top 10 informational interview questions that will unlock a treasure trove of wisdom and guidance.

1. “What’s Your Career Story?”

Kick things off by inviting your interviewee to share their career journey. This open-ended question allows them to provide a comprehensive overview of their professional path, including the motivations, challenges, and pivotal moments that shaped their trajectory. Not only will this help you better understand their background, but it may also reveal valuable lessons and insights that could inform your own career decisions.

2. “How and Why Did You Choose This Profession?”

Delving into the thought process behind someone’s career choice can be incredibly enlightening. Were they drawn to the field by a lifelong passion, or did they stumble upon it serendipitously? Understanding their motivations and the factors that influenced their decision can help you evaluate whether your own reasons align with theirs, ultimately guiding you towards a more informed and fulfilling career choice.

3. “What Kinds of Skills Are Essential for Success in This Field?”

Every profession demands a unique set of skills, both hard and soft, that are crucial for success. By asking this question, you’ll gain valuable insights into the specific competencies required in your desired career path. Armed with this knowledge, you can better assess your current skill set and identify areas that may need further development or training.

4. “What Is the Interview Process Like?”

Gaining a behind-the-scenes look at the interview process can be a game-changer when it comes to preparing for your own job search. Your interviewee’s firsthand experience can provide invaluable insights into the types of questions, assessments, or challenges you may encounter, allowing you to tailor your preparation strategy accordingly.

5. “Why Do You Think You Got the Job?”

This question offers a unique opportunity to understand the specific qualities, experiences, or achievements that set your interviewee apart from other candidates. By uncovering what impressed the hiring manager, you can better position yourself to highlight your own strengths and accomplishments during future job interviews.

6. “What Activities Outside of the Industry Help You on the Job?”

Success in any field often requires a diverse set of skills and experiences that extend beyond the confines of the industry itself. By asking about activities or pursuits outside of work that have contributed to your interviewee’s professional development, you may discover unexpected avenues for personal growth and skill-building.

7. “What Have You Learned from the Role?”

Continuous learning is essential for personal and professional growth. This question allows you to gain insights into the valuable lessons and skills your interviewee has acquired through their hands-on experience in the role. Their response may inspire you to seek out opportunities for personal development or highlight areas where additional training or education could be beneficial.

8. “Was Your Major Relevant to the Role? How or Why Not?”

Understanding the connection (or lack thereof) between your interviewee’s academic background and their current role can provide valuable perspective. This question can help you gauge the importance of specific academic paths or the need for additional training or experience beyond formal education.

9. “Do You Have a Mentor? How Have They Helped You?”

Mentorship can play a pivotal role in career development and success. By asking about your interviewee’s experiences with mentors, you can gain insights into the benefits of such relationships and potentially identify opportunities to seek out mentorship within your desired field.

10. “How Has the Role/Industry/Company Changed Since You Started?”

Change is inevitable in any industry or profession, and understanding how your interviewee’s role, industry, or company has evolved can provide valuable foresight. Their response may shed light on emerging trends, challenges, or opportunities that could shape your own career trajectory in the future.

Asking the right questions during an informational interview can unlock a wealth of knowledge and guidance that can prove invaluable as you navigate your career path. By incorporating these top 10 questions into your conversations, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the realities, challenges, and rewards of your desired profession, empowering you to make more informed decisions and positioning yourself for long-term success.