Our Favorite Informational Interview Questions
Informational interviews are one of the best ways to get real insight into a career path while building meaningful connections.
You’ll learn what the work is actually like, stay at the top of their mind if opportunities come up, and grow your network.
Each interview will be a little bit different - if it’s just with an old family friend, maybe it’ll be more casual. If it’s with the CEO of your dream company to work for, you’ll want to show that you can be professional and formal.
Take this list and make it your own.
Here are some of our favorite informational interview questions to get you started, but be sure to customize it for each person you interview.
Start by briefly introducing yourself, sharing your elevator pitch, and explaining why you were excited to connect with them specifically.
Can you tell me about your career journey and what led you to your current role? Did you always know you wanted to do this type of work?
What previous experiences have been most helpful in preparing you for this role?
When did you feel ready to take the next step in your career? Did you ever deal with imposter syndrome along the way?
What did getting started in this field look like for you?
What does a typical workday or week look like for you?
What might surprise people about the day-to-day reality of your work?
In what ways has this role met your expectations, and in what ways has it been different from what you envisioned?
What are some of the biggest rewards of your position?
What are the most challenging or discouraging aspects?
How would you describe someone who really thrives in this type of role?
What are the most important skills or experiences to build if I want to pursue something like this?
What’s one thing you wish someone had told you before you entered this field?
Do you know others in similar roles, and have you seen different paths lead to this kind of work?
If you could change something about your job or field, what would it be?
If you could go back, would you choose the same path or field? What might you do differently?
What other companies or organizations in this space would you recommend I explore?
Who else at your company (or in your field) do you think I should talk to? Would you be open to making an introduction for us by email?
Before we wrap up, is there anything else you think would be helpful for me to know?
End by expressing gratitude for their time and insights.
Don’t forget to follow up.
Within the next week, be sure to follow up with a message that thanks them again and also reminds them that you look forward to an email introduction to each of the individuals they mentioned. Bonus points: include a reference to anything you bonded over (e.g.: wish them an amazing time on their upcoming vacation to one of your favorite cities).
This will ensure they won’t forget you, and will set you on a path to growing a thriving network!
