Circle of Experts ??“ Career Resources : Questions to Use in Your Informational Interviews

ABOUT SSL CERTIFICATES

Informal Interview Questions

Questions to Use in Your Informational Interviews
Gathered from various sources

Introduction

Let me introduce myself: age, background, etc.
Tell me about yourself: background and current position.
What other industries did you look at when you were investigating jobs?
How and why did you choose this position?

Competition

What organizations are your peers/competitors?
How does your organization compare to similar organizations?
What do you like most about your organization? Least?
Which firms do you think are your toughest competitors, and how do they differ from your company?
What's your strategic advantage in sourcing deals/customers?
What's your strategy?

Present Job

What is your typical day like? A typical week?
What are the toughest problems you must deal with?
What are your responsibilities?
What do you like most about your job? Least?
Do you supervise others?
What other branches of the organization do you work with on a regular basis?
How closely do you work with others?
Is your job typical of others in this field?

Career Path

What are some of the possible career paths in this field?
What are the most important characteristics, skills, or talents a person should have to be successful in this field?
What kinds of changes have occurred or are occurring in your field?

Hiring

What are the typical starting positions for someone with my degree?
What special things are looked for in applicants/what should I emphasize?
What makes a candidate impressive?
What education program is recommended preparation? Which courses are desirable? Which are indispensable?
What extracurricular activities would help?

Other Advice

Would you refer me to resources that might help me learn more?
Are there professional organizations I should be in touch with?
Anything you wish you had done while at grad school?
What would you recommend I do for a field study?
What courses should I take?
Do you have any feedback on my resume?
Would you suggest others who might be valuable sources of information for me? Would you give me their names? Could I have your permission to use your name when I call or contact them?
Do you think I left out any important questions that would help me learn more about this occupation?

Reproduction of ANY portion of this article is NOT PERMITTED without the express, written consent of David Teten. This means that YOU or YOUR COMPANY cannot copy and paste this Intellectual Property (IP) information onto your Web site, or republish it in any other form, offline or online (electronic), without the express, written consent of David Teten. If you wish to purchase the IP licensing or syndication rights, please send an email to David Teten, david