8 answers
Kamora
Student
Vancouver, Washington
2
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What are two things you learned about your favorite career path during the informational interview ?
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8 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1590
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
KNOW WHAT'S IMPORTANT TO
YOU BEFORE YOUR INTERVIEW
Before you even start interviewing, you must know which benefits are important to you and will make a difference in your life. By knowing in advance what you want and need, you will be better prepared to negotiate. It helps to have a good idea of industry and country standards, as that gives you leverage in negotiations.
SIGNING BONUS
Bonuses are often overlooked, yet they can and should be negotiated. There is often more flexibility when it comes to signing bonuses than salary increases, as one-time payments won’t disrupt salary equality within a division. Your signing bonus will help you get any additional money not approved in a salary negotiation. Don’t forget to always negotiate a higher salary first, as your future increases will be based on it.
CONTINUING
EDUCATION REIMBURSEMENT
We all want to be challenged in our jobs and keep growing our careers. One way to do that is through continuing education courses. Many companies are happy to oblige as long as you will be learning additional skills that you can bring to your role. Some countries may even have employee assistance programs that help companies pay for their employees’ upskilling. Look into all the options available to you and agree to an annual spending allowance.
FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE
Remote working is becoming more and more common, especially if your job allows you to be away from the office. You may be able to negotiate a telecommuting schedule working 2-3 days at home. It’s not unusual that you need to be in the office for a specific period before you are able to start telecommuting, so have this period specified in your contract. This may be one of the best non-salary perks.
PAID TIME OFF
Paid time off (PTO) can include paid holidays, sick leave, federal and state holidays, personal days, and vacation days. Typically, the amount of PTO offered by your company is based on how long you’ve worked for them, and you accrue more PTO over time (for example, if you get 15 days of PTO per year, that means you accrue about 0.058 hours of PTO for every hour you work, or roughly 10.5 hours of PTO per month). If, say, you’re looking to start a new job right before a holiday or planned trip, you might want to ask the company if it has a policy about using PTO before you’ve technically accrued it.
NEGOTIATE EARLY REVIEW
This may sound like a boring one, but it can actually accelerate your first raise and your career growth. You know what you are capable of, so ask for a review of compensation and benefits in 6 months and get it in writing. You will want to prove your worth when you get started. By negotiating early performance reviews, you can ask to have goals outlined for that review. This will give you set objectives to achieve and make sure you start your role successfully.
RETIREMENT CONTRIBUTIONS
A 401(k) is a retirement-savings plan that’s commonly sponsored by your employer. Plans can vary, but generally you contribute to the fund as a pre-tax paycheck deduction and pay taxes on the money when you withdraw it during retirement. Many companies match employees’ 401(k) contributions, either dollar for dollar, where they put in what you put in, or with a partial match—for example, adding 50 cents for every dollar you contribute, up to a certain percentage of your salary.
YOU BEFORE YOUR INTERVIEW
Before you even start interviewing, you must know which benefits are important to you and will make a difference in your life. By knowing in advance what you want and need, you will be better prepared to negotiate. It helps to have a good idea of industry and country standards, as that gives you leverage in negotiations.
SIGNING BONUS
Bonuses are often overlooked, yet they can and should be negotiated. There is often more flexibility when it comes to signing bonuses than salary increases, as one-time payments won’t disrupt salary equality within a division. Your signing bonus will help you get any additional money not approved in a salary negotiation. Don’t forget to always negotiate a higher salary first, as your future increases will be based on it.
CONTINUING
EDUCATION REIMBURSEMENT
We all want to be challenged in our jobs and keep growing our careers. One way to do that is through continuing education courses. Many companies are happy to oblige as long as you will be learning additional skills that you can bring to your role. Some countries may even have employee assistance programs that help companies pay for their employees’ upskilling. Look into all the options available to you and agree to an annual spending allowance.
FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE
Remote working is becoming more and more common, especially if your job allows you to be away from the office. You may be able to negotiate a telecommuting schedule working 2-3 days at home. It’s not unusual that you need to be in the office for a specific period before you are able to start telecommuting, so have this period specified in your contract. This may be one of the best non-salary perks.
PAID TIME OFF
Paid time off (PTO) can include paid holidays, sick leave, federal and state holidays, personal days, and vacation days. Typically, the amount of PTO offered by your company is based on how long you’ve worked for them, and you accrue more PTO over time (for example, if you get 15 days of PTO per year, that means you accrue about 0.058 hours of PTO for every hour you work, or roughly 10.5 hours of PTO per month). If, say, you’re looking to start a new job right before a holiday or planned trip, you might want to ask the company if it has a policy about using PTO before you’ve technically accrued it.
NEGOTIATE EARLY REVIEW
This may sound like a boring one, but it can actually accelerate your first raise and your career growth. You know what you are capable of, so ask for a review of compensation and benefits in 6 months and get it in writing. You will want to prove your worth when you get started. By negotiating early performance reviews, you can ask to have goals outlined for that review. This will give you set objectives to achieve and make sure you start your role successfully.
RETIREMENT CONTRIBUTIONS
A 401(k) is a retirement-savings plan that’s commonly sponsored by your employer. Plans can vary, but generally you contribute to the fund as a pre-tax paycheck deduction and pay taxes on the money when you withdraw it during retirement. Many companies match employees’ 401(k) contributions, either dollar for dollar, where they put in what you put in, or with a partial match—for example, adding 50 cents for every dollar you contribute, up to a certain percentage of your salary.
Tess Nyka
Career Counselor
4
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Tess’s Answer
Hello, two things I learned from informational interviewing were salary expectations for a role as well as the experience and skills necessary to succeed in the industry. I suggest conducting informational interviews with professionals in positions and industries you would like to work in. If you are a current student, your career center may have networking opportunities as well as alumni mentors who can help.
Conduct informational interviews.
If you are a student or alumni check with your school's career center.
Tess recommends the following next steps:
Shivakumar S l
eCCommerce
2
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Shivakumar’s Answer
Success always comes after failure.
You can go farther together than alone.
You can go farther together than alone.
Linto K David
6
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Linto K’s Answer
I find the below ones very useful:
1. It gives relevant information about the realities of working with a particular role.
2. Self awareness and willingness to face challenges.
3. Learning how to research and find answers.
4. Setting targets and achieving them.
Thank you! All the very best!!
1. It gives relevant information about the realities of working with a particular role.
2. Self awareness and willingness to face challenges.
3. Learning how to research and find answers.
4. Setting targets and achieving them.
Thank you! All the very best!!
Shirley L
Accountant
64
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Shirley’s Answer
Hi Kamora,
1) What tasks would I be able to participate in?
2) How can I grow with the company (i.e. new responsibilities with a new job roles)
Ask how your about your interviewer's career path to their current role.
1) What tasks would I be able to participate in?
2) How can I grow with the company (i.e. new responsibilities with a new job roles)
Ask how your about your interviewer's career path to their current role.
Tess Nyka
Career Counselor
4
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Tess’s Answer
Hello, two things I learned from informational interviewing were salary expectations for a role as well as the experience and skills necessary to succeed in the industry. I suggest conducting informational interviews with professionals in positions and industries you would like to work in. If you are a current student, your career center may have networking opportunities as well as alumni mentioned who can help.
Conduct informational interviews.
If you are a student or alumni check with your school's career center.
Tess recommends the following next steps:
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6180
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Kamora,
Valuable Lessons from an Informational Interview on My Preferred Career Path
Partaking in an informational interview can offer priceless knowledge about a career that you're enthusiastic about. Here are two important lessons I gathered from my recent informational interview concerning my preferred career path:
1. The Power of Networking and Fostering Relationships
One of the most vital points stressed during the interview was the power of networking and fostering relationships within the industry. The expert I conversed with emphasized that a lot of job openings come from personal networks rather than standard job advertisements. They recounted their own journey, showing how attending industry gatherings, joining workshops, and interacting with colleagues on social media platforms like LinkedIn have paved their career path.
This information underscored the concept that success in this sector often depends on who you connect with as much as the knowledge you possess. It highlighted the need to take the initiative in reaching out to others, seeking guidance, and preserving relationships over time. This strategy not only helps in uncovering job opportunities but also encourages teamwork and the exchange of knowledge, which are crucial for professional advancement.
2. Lifelong Learning and Flexibility Are Essential
Another important lesson was the focus on lifelong learning and flexibility within this career path. The interviewee emphasized that industries transform quickly due to technological progress and fluctuating market needs. Hence, keeping up with new abilities, tools, and trends is crucial for enduring success.
They suggested various resources like online classes, certifications, and professional groups that provide training programs aligned with the latest trends in the field. This dedication to continuous learning not only improves one’s abilities but also shows employers a proactive approach toward self-improvement.
The discussion highlighted that being flexible—ready to shift when needed or adopt new approaches—is key to flourishing in this ever-changing environment.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used
Harvard Business Review: A premier resource offering insights into business practices and career advancement strategies.
LinkedIn Learning: A digital platform providing courses centered on professional skills enhancement across various sectors.
Forbes: A trusted source renowned for its articles on career guidance, networking tactics, and industry patterns.
God Bless You,
JC.
Valuable Lessons from an Informational Interview on My Preferred Career Path
Partaking in an informational interview can offer priceless knowledge about a career that you're enthusiastic about. Here are two important lessons I gathered from my recent informational interview concerning my preferred career path:
1. The Power of Networking and Fostering Relationships
One of the most vital points stressed during the interview was the power of networking and fostering relationships within the industry. The expert I conversed with emphasized that a lot of job openings come from personal networks rather than standard job advertisements. They recounted their own journey, showing how attending industry gatherings, joining workshops, and interacting with colleagues on social media platforms like LinkedIn have paved their career path.
This information underscored the concept that success in this sector often depends on who you connect with as much as the knowledge you possess. It highlighted the need to take the initiative in reaching out to others, seeking guidance, and preserving relationships over time. This strategy not only helps in uncovering job opportunities but also encourages teamwork and the exchange of knowledge, which are crucial for professional advancement.
2. Lifelong Learning and Flexibility Are Essential
Another important lesson was the focus on lifelong learning and flexibility within this career path. The interviewee emphasized that industries transform quickly due to technological progress and fluctuating market needs. Hence, keeping up with new abilities, tools, and trends is crucial for enduring success.
They suggested various resources like online classes, certifications, and professional groups that provide training programs aligned with the latest trends in the field. This dedication to continuous learning not only improves one’s abilities but also shows employers a proactive approach toward self-improvement.
The discussion highlighted that being flexible—ready to shift when needed or adopt new approaches—is key to flourishing in this ever-changing environment.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used
Harvard Business Review: A premier resource offering insights into business practices and career advancement strategies.
LinkedIn Learning: A digital platform providing courses centered on professional skills enhancement across various sectors.
Forbes: A trusted source renowned for its articles on career guidance, networking tactics, and industry patterns.
God Bless You,
JC.
Kimberly Vides
Junior Cybersecurity Analyst
11
Answers
Gainesville, Florida
Updated
Kimberly’s Answer
Hello Kamora!
In our relentless pursuit of professional growth, we often emphasize technical prowess, academic achievements, and individual milestones. However, there exists an equally vital factor one that transcends résumés and skill sets: building meaningful relationships. Whether we tread the path of cybersecurity, medicine, graphic design, or any other field, our connections matter profoundly. Allow me to share some insights:
• Embrace Role Diversity: Avenues Unexplored: Be open to exploring diverse roles and specializations. Recruiters possess a keen eye for untapped potential and transferable skills. Sometimes, the most unexpected positions reveal our true capabilities. Self-awareness and a willingness to embrace challenges become our secret weapons.
• The Network Effect: Beyond Business Cards: During informational interviews, I discovered the pivotal role of a robust network. Professional contacts aren’t mere acquaintances; they’re gatekeepers to opportunities. Networking extends beyond collecting business cards—it’s about fostering genuine connections. Attend industry events, engage online, and nurture relationships with peers and mentors.
Good luck!
In our relentless pursuit of professional growth, we often emphasize technical prowess, academic achievements, and individual milestones. However, there exists an equally vital factor one that transcends résumés and skill sets: building meaningful relationships. Whether we tread the path of cybersecurity, medicine, graphic design, or any other field, our connections matter profoundly. Allow me to share some insights:
• Embrace Role Diversity: Avenues Unexplored: Be open to exploring diverse roles and specializations. Recruiters possess a keen eye for untapped potential and transferable skills. Sometimes, the most unexpected positions reveal our true capabilities. Self-awareness and a willingness to embrace challenges become our secret weapons.
• The Network Effect: Beyond Business Cards: During informational interviews, I discovered the pivotal role of a robust network. Professional contacts aren’t mere acquaintances; they’re gatekeepers to opportunities. Networking extends beyond collecting business cards—it’s about fostering genuine connections. Attend industry events, engage online, and nurture relationships with peers and mentors.
Good luck!