Information Interviews

The purpose of information interviews is to introduce yourself to people and to find something out about the company. Introducing yourself allows you to network. The more people you know, the better the chances you have of landing a job. Also, by finding something out about a company, you find out more about the type of job you are looking for. This meeting allows you to meet and talk to people in the field of your choice.

Here are a few questions you may wish to consider asking in an information interview to get the most information you can. Of course you will have some that are specific to the particular career, so use and adapt as the case warrants.

Take your notes with you, but pay particularly close attention to what your interviewee is saying; you don't want to ask a question that was previously, or inadvertently answered throughout your conversation. You may want to refer to your list of questions at the end of the interview to make sure there was not something that you wanted to ask but had not covered in discussion.

1. What is the title of the person you are interviewing?
2. What are the duties performed on a typical day?
3. Does s/he have a set routine?
4. What type of training or educational background will I need for this job?
5. What steps, besides meeting educational requirements, are necessary to "break into" this occupation? For example, could I join a union,volunteer, or work part time at first?
6. What are some related occupations that might prove acceptable to me if I lack some of the necessary skills for this job?
7. What is the salary range?
8. Does a typical worker have a set schedule or are the hours flexible?
9. Do you work a lot of overtime?
10. What do you like about your job?
11. What do you dislike about your job?
12. What are the greatest pressures and strains in your work?
13. What is the occupational outlook for people in this field?
14. Who are your typical clients?
15. Who are your competitors ?
16. What is your educational background?
17. Where do you see this firm in 5 years?
18. What is the dress code?
19. What is the peak season in this industry?
20. Where can I get more information?
21. Who else can I speak with?