Video:What to Ask In an Informational Interview
with MacKenzie Lawyer DaviesInformational interviews will give you the details of a career from an employee in the field. This video from About.com includes examples of questions to ask in an informational interview so you can get a better understanding of the job role.See Transcript
Transcript:What to Ask In an Informational Interview
Hi, I'm MacKenzie Lawyer Davies. In this About.com video we'll discuss what to ask in an informational interview.
Common Questions for Informational Interviews
An informational interview is a chance for you to ask questions to professionals and maybe determine whether it’s the career for you. While it can be a more relaxed setting than the typical interview, you want to give a good impression in case it turns into something more down the road. Because you have requested to interview them, they will expect you to have questions for them. Here are some examples of questions that you can ask:
- What is the typical salary range for this career? This is OK to ask, but never ask someone how much money they make. It can be a little too personal for most people and even seen as rude. Whether they answer this or not, they will probably be nice about it, but it’s best to avoid that issue.
- What is a typical day like? Even though you may only be there for a half an hour or so, it will benefit you to get as much information as you can about what they do all day. They may even be able to walk you through their day and the places around the office they go within the day.
- What type of educational or work experience is needed for this job? Don’t be surprised if they tell you what is needed, but then they say that they don’t have it. Qualifications often change and you should only be concerned with what you would need.
- What is the future outlook for this position? Its always good to know whether the career you are pursuing has some job-security.
Related Questions for Informational Interviews
- What is the least and most favorite part of the job?
- What are the typical hours and shifts for this type of work?
- What is the title of the person you’re interviewing?
- How are the benefits at this company?
Follow the Informational Interview with a Thank You
If you want to take notes, don’t let them interrupt the flow of your conversation as that can put off the interviewee. Remember again that they are doing you a favor and you should be respectful of the work that they need to do. When done, make sure to thank them and you may even want to send a thank you note.
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