4 answers
Edgar
Student
Portland, Oregon
1
Question
Asked
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What are 3 informational interview questions?
What are 3 informational interview questions to ask?
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4 answers
Reena Washington, MBA, CPCC
Career Coach & HR Consultant
6
Answers
Ontario
Updated
Reena’s Answer
Hi Edgar!
Great question! Informational interviews are a fantastic way to explore career paths and get valuable insights from professionals in the field. Here are 3 key informational interview questions to get you started:
"What skills and experiences are most important for someone starting out in this field?"
This question helps you understand the specific knowledge and abilities employers look for in entry-level positions.
"What advice would you give to someone interested in pursuing a career in [insert field]?"
This open-ended question allows the professional to share their unique perspective on career paths, challenges, and opportunities.
"Are there any resources or organizations you recommend for someone wanting to learn more about this field?"
This question helps you discover valuable resources like industry publications, professional associations, or online communities that can further your understanding.
Great question! Informational interviews are a fantastic way to explore career paths and get valuable insights from professionals in the field. Here are 3 key informational interview questions to get you started:
"What skills and experiences are most important for someone starting out in this field?"
This question helps you understand the specific knowledge and abilities employers look for in entry-level positions.
"What advice would you give to someone interested in pursuing a career in [insert field]?"
This open-ended question allows the professional to share their unique perspective on career paths, challenges, and opportunities.
"Are there any resources or organizations you recommend for someone wanting to learn more about this field?"
This question helps you discover valuable resources like industry publications, professional associations, or online communities that can further your understanding.
This was super helpful, thank you!
Edgar
Brenna Smedley
talent acquisition director
5
Answers
Farmington, Utah
Updated
Brenna’s Answer
1) Ask the hiring manager- "If I asked your direct reports (the people who this person manages), what is one thing they would say that you could improve? What would they say that you do the best?" The responses to this question will tell you a lot about this manager and the team dynamic. You will learn if they are self-aware, honest, and connected with the people they manage. You can hear more about their management style and personality. It will also help prepare you to be part of this team and how to work with this manager.
2) Ask any interviewer- "What is one thing (good or not so good) you wish you'd known about this company when you joined?" This question will provide you with information about the company that could help you build better relationships and gain a deeper understanding of challenges or achievements once you're there. Depending on the answer, you may decide the company is or isn't the right fit for you and your career goals.
3) Ask the hiring manager or member of the team- "If you could flip a switch and immediately solve one problem that this role and team faces, what would it be and why?" This question will give you a sneak peek behind the scenes of what may be most challenging or frustrating in this role and also where the manager's (or team's) priorities are. If you are offered and accept the job, you are already prepared for this problem and may be able to help find a solution as opposed to being surprised.
Good luck and I hope these are helpful! :)
2) Ask any interviewer- "What is one thing (good or not so good) you wish you'd known about this company when you joined?" This question will provide you with information about the company that could help you build better relationships and gain a deeper understanding of challenges or achievements once you're there. Depending on the answer, you may decide the company is or isn't the right fit for you and your career goals.
3) Ask the hiring manager or member of the team- "If you could flip a switch and immediately solve one problem that this role and team faces, what would it be and why?" This question will give you a sneak peek behind the scenes of what may be most challenging or frustrating in this role and also where the manager's (or team's) priorities are. If you are offered and accept the job, you are already prepared for this problem and may be able to help find a solution as opposed to being surprised.
Good luck and I hope these are helpful! :)
Anika S
Software Engineer Intern
100
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Anika’s Answer
Hi Edgar,
Here are three key questions to ask during an informational interview:
1. "Can you describe a typical day or week in your role?"
Why Ask This Question:
It helps you understand the daily tasks and responsibilities associated with the position.
It gives you a realistic view of what to expect and whether the role aligns with your interests and skills.
2. "What skills and qualities are most important for success in this field?"
Why Ask This Question:
It provides insight into the key competencies and attributes needed to excel in the industry.
It helps you identify areas for personal development and what employers are looking for in candidates.
3. "How did you get started in this career, and what advice would you give to someone looking to enter this field?"
Why Ask This Question:
It gives you a personal perspective on the career path and potential hurdles or opportunities.
It offers practical advice and tips on how to break into the industry and navigate your career journey.
Here are three key questions to ask during an informational interview:
1. "Can you describe a typical day or week in your role?"
Why Ask This Question:
It helps you understand the daily tasks and responsibilities associated with the position.
It gives you a realistic view of what to expect and whether the role aligns with your interests and skills.
2. "What skills and qualities are most important for success in this field?"
Why Ask This Question:
It provides insight into the key competencies and attributes needed to excel in the industry.
It helps you identify areas for personal development and what employers are looking for in candidates.
3. "How did you get started in this career, and what advice would you give to someone looking to enter this field?"
Why Ask This Question:
It gives you a personal perspective on the career path and potential hurdles or opportunities.
It offers practical advice and tips on how to break into the industry and navigate your career journey.
Basak Gazioglu
Partner Success Director
5
Answers
Cary, North Carolina
Updated
Basak’s Answer
How would you approach this job differently if you were starting it today? (one of my favs for an informational)
What keeps you in this Company, what motivates you?
If you were to decide to leave this Company, what would be your top 3 reasons to do so?
What keeps you in this Company, what motivates you?
If you were to decide to leave this Company, what would be your top 3 reasons to do so?