Networking
Informational Interviews
- Allow you to explore careers and learn about the day to day tasks
- Expand your professional network
- Provide insight about employment opportunities that are not advertised
Guidelines for Information Interviews
Steps
- Identify Target Industry
- Reach Out to Contacts (Ask for Referrals)
- Schedule Informational Interviews
- Prepare
- Conduct Interviews
- Follow Up
Question to Ask
- What is your job like? A typical day? What percentage of your time is spent doing what?
- What are the duties/functions/responsibilities of your job?
- How did you get your job? What jobs and experiences have led you to your present position?
- What were the keys to your career advancement?
- What are the greatest pressures, problems, or frustrations in the workplace?
- What are the typical entry-level job titles and functions in this field?
- What sorts of changes are occurring in your occupation? How rapidly is the field growing?
- What types of training do companies offer persons entering this field? Is graduate school recommended? An MBA?
Closing the Interview
- Did I leave out any important questions that would be helpful in learning about the job or occupation?
- Would you mind taking a look at my resume?
- Can you suggest other people whom I might talk to who have similar jobs?