Information Interviewing
Learning a great deal about potential careers in a short period of time
Four Easy Steps:
- Choose a job/position you want to learn more about.
- Get names of people who work in that profession from anyone you know or even the Yellow Pages. You will want to talk with the person who is doing the job you wish to explore. In this case you are not looking for the hiring manager (unless that’s the position you want).
- Call and ask for a chance to talk with them for 20 minutes. Assure them that you seek advice and information not a position (at this time).
- Use the following to prepare a list of questions you want to ask. Respect their time and send a thank you note after the interview.
Informational Interview Questions:
- What are your responsibilities and duties? Can you give me some examples?
- What happens during a typical work day in your position?
- What do you like/dislike about your job? About this industry?
- How did you get into this field?
- What skills, qualifications and other credentials are essential to be hired for this position?
- What courses should I take, books should I read, or other experiences should I gain to prepare more fully for this type of work?
- Do you belong to a professional association? Do you recommend I join one?
- What type of training is available in this industry?
- What advancement opportunities exist?
- What is the salary range for employees in this field and how do the salaries progress over the longer term?
- What are the future trends in this field?
- Who are your major competitors?
- What sets your organization apart from your competitors?
- What personal characteristics do you perceive to be critical to succeed in this field?
- What is the typical career path for someone in this field?
Remember these are suggestions only. It is best if you have done some reading first and have general knowledge about the career (job title) you are exploring. Your purpose is to learn as much as you can in a short period of time from someone whose job title matches the job title you are exploring. If you want to explore Physician’s Assistant, talk to someone who is a Physician’s Assistant.
Try to do the interview where the person works. You can learn a great deal about the work environment by visiting the site. A Thank You note is appropriate after the interview.
Developed from The Edge Resume & Job Search Strategy
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