An informational interview differs from a traditional interview in that the job seeker asks an employer questions rather than the other way around. The purpose is to glean useful information about a particular industry, especially relating to pursuing a job in that field. College students and people seeking a career change often decide to seek informational interviews, and when doing so, it is important to prepare informational interview questions that are meaningful and well researched to avoid wasting the employer's time. Common informational interview questions revolve around the particular industry, the qualifications and experience one should seek in order to obtain a job in that field, and specific questions about the employer's company.
One should remember that an employer is not obligated to participate in such interviews, so the job seeker should be brief and succinct. Informational interview questions should be written down ahead of time and delivered quickly. Allow the employer plenty of time to answer, but do not let the interview drag on too long. Ask questions about the company itself and how the employer worked his or her way into the position he or she currently holds. The employer is likely to offer insight as to where the job seeker should begin his or her training for a position in the field.
Other informational interview questions may focus on the industry as a whole instead. Asking what kind of education, experience, and internships are necessary will not only lead the job seeker down the right path, but it will also help establish a relationship with the employer and show him or her that the job seeker is motivated and organized enough to get started in the field. The job seeker should be certain to ask what the employer looks for specifically in a job candidate, and how the job seeker can make himself more attractive professionally.
One of the best informational interview questions to ask an employer focuses on the typical day of work. Ask the employer what a day in his or her professional life is like: how many hours worked, what kind of tasks are performed, what the best part of his or her day is, and what the worst part of his or her day is. Ask for a realistic assessment of what life is like in that position, and ask the employer what kind of future he or she sees in the industry. The job seeker should ask the employer what characteristics a strong candidate would possess, and how he or she obtained those characteristics himself.
