10 Best Informational Interview Questions 2024
Shabuddin MS
Want to ace your next informational interview? Here are the 10 best questions to ask in 2024:
- How did you start in this role?
- How has your job changed over time?
- What do you do each day?
- Which skills matter most in your job?
- What changes are happening in your field?
- What problems does your industry face?
- What helped you grow in your career?
- What tips do you have for beginners?
- Who else should I talk to?
- How can scale.jobs help my job search?
These questions will help you: • Understand career paths and daily work • Identify key skills and industry trends
• Get advice on growth and avoiding pitfalls • Expand your network
Pro tip: Do your homework, say thanks, and follow up after. Each chat is a chance to learn and maybe find your next opportunity.
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How did you start in this role?
This question is like opening a treasure chest of career insights. It's a great way to uncover your interviewee's unique path to their current position.
When you ask this, you're inviting them to share their personal journey. You might learn about:
- Surprising ways they entered the industry
- Big decisions that shaped their career
- Obstacles they had to overcome
Tanja Hinterstoisser from Champlain College suggests asking it like this:
"I'm interested in hearing more about what you do, how you got to join this organization, and why did you choose this profession?"
This approach encourages them to dive deep into their story, giving you tons of info about potential career paths.
Keep in mind, everyone's journey is different. You might discover:
- New ways to break into your desired field
- Skills that could give you an edge
- Networking opportunities you hadn't thought of
Dan T., a writer and mechanical engineer, says:
"There's no better way to get a head start in your career than to find a mentor who has walked the path themselves."
By understanding how they started, you're basically getting a roadmap from someone who's been there, done that.
Pro tip: Pay attention to specific companies, job titles, or key moments they mention. These can be great jumping-off points for more questions or networking later on.
This isn't just small talk - it's a smart move to gather useful insights for your own career. So make this question count and let their story guide your next steps.
2. How has your job changed over time?
This question digs deep into career evolution and industry trends. It's not just about job titles - it's about how responsibilities, skills, and challenges shift over time.
When you ask this, you're getting a front-row seat to someone's professional journey. Their answer can show you:
- How tech changes jobs
- How industry shifts affect daily work
- What new skills have become must-haves
Let's look at a real example. Sarah Chen, a Google software engineer, said:
"In 2015, I just coded. Now, in 2024, 40% of my time is on AI ethics and machine learning strategy. It's a huge shift that shows how fast our field is changing."
This isn't just a tech thing. A 2023 Cisco report found that 40% of mid-level and 37% of entry-level IT jobs are set to change big time in the coming years.
Why is this question so good? Here's why:
1. It shows adaptability: You'll see how pros handle change - key in today's fast-paced work world.
2. It reveals industry trends: One person's job changes often mirror bigger shifts in the field.
3. It uncovers hidden skills: You might find important abilities that job titles don't show.
4. It gives career path insights: Seeing how roles change can help you plan your own career moves.
When you ask this, listen for details. Has the person taken on more leadership? Moved from hands-on work to big-picture planning? These details can guide your own career choices.
Change is a constant in most industries. As advertising legend David Ogilvy said:
"If each of us hires people who are bigger than we are, we shall become a company of giants."
This quote shows how roles often grow to fit both personal and company growth.
As you listen, think about your own career. Are there new skills you should pick up? Technologies to learn? The interviewee's experience can be a roadmap for your own professional journey.
3. What do you do each day?
This question is your ticket to understanding the real deal of a job. It's like getting a backstage pass to see what actually happens during a typical workday.
By asking this, you're not just getting a boring job description. You're uncovering:
- The actual tasks that fill up someone's day
- How they juggle their time and work
- The everyday hurdles they face
- The skills they use most
Rachel Pelta, Head Writer at Forage, puts it this way:
"Asking about daily activities gives you an idea of the common or recurring obstacles the interviewee faces."
This info is gold. It helps you figure out if the job matches your skills, interests, and where you want to go in your career.
Let's look at a real example. Sarah Chen, a Google software engineer, shared how her day-to-day has changed:
"In 2015, I just coded. Now, in 2024, 40% of my time is on AI ethics and machine learning strategy. It's a huge shift that shows how fast our field is changing."
This kind of detail is super valuable. It shows how jobs can evolve and helps you prep for what's coming in your field.
When you ask this question, keep an ear out for:
- Specific tasks they do
- How they split their time
- Who they work with (team members, clients)
- The tools and tech they use every day
The goal? To get a clear picture of what your life might look like in this job. As Career Contessa says:
"This is the best chance you'll have to see what every day is like for the role you're interested in."
Here's a pro tip: After they describe their day, ask follow-up questions about stuff that catches your interest or surprises you. It shows you're really listening and helps you dig deeper into what the job's really like.
4. Which skills matter most in your job?
Knowing what skills you need to rock your job is key. This question helps you figure out what to work on to crush it in your field.
When you ask about important skills, listen for both hard and soft skills. Tanja Hinterstoisser from Champlain College says:
"The skills you enter the workforce with are just the beginning of your long-term career success."
Take software engineers, for example. They might start out needing to know Java or PHP. But as they move up, they'll need to get good at things like talking to people and solving conflicts.
Here's a real-life example from Sarah Chen, who works at Google:
"In 2015, I just coded. Now, in 2024, 40% of my time is on AI ethics and machine learning strategy. It's a huge shift that shows how fast our field is changing."
This shows how quickly the skills you need can change, even if you keep the same job title.
When you're talking about skills, pay attention to:
- Technical skills: The specific tools and tech you need to know
- Soft skills: How well you work with others and solve problems
- Industry knowledge: Knowing what's going on in your field
- Emerging skills: New stuff that's becoming important
After they tell you about skills, you could ask:
- "How can I check if I've got the skills for a job like yours?"
- "What skills do you think will be big in the next few years?"
The point is to spot where you need to level up and make a plan to get there. Use what you learn to guide your training and maybe even tweak your resume for future jobs.
And hey, if you're swamped with job apps while trying to learn new skills, check out scale.jobs. They've got virtual assistants who can help with resumes and cover letters, so you can focus on networking and getting better at what you do.
5. What changes are happening in your field?
This question is your ticket to understanding where your industry is headed. It's like getting a sneak peek into the future.
When you ask about changes, you're tapping into insider knowledge that can shape your career decisions. Rachel Pelta, Head Writer at Forage, says:
"Change is inevitable. And asking about change within a job, sector, or organization can tell you a lot about its future - and yours!"
Here's why this question is so powerful:
It reveals industry trends. You'll get the scoop on what's shaking up the field. In tech, for example, AI and machine learning are changing roles across the board.
It helps you stay ahead. Knowing what's coming lets you prepare. If they mention a new skill that's becoming crucial, that's your cue to start learning.
It shows you're thinking ahead. Asking about changes proves you're interested in the industry's future, not just the present.
When you ask this, pay attention to:
- New tech or tools being adopted
- Changes in job responsibilities or required skills
- Shifts in industry rules or practices
- New markets or customer needs
Here's a real example of how this question can pay off:
In a 2023 chat with a senior data scientist at Netflix, they shared:
"Five years ago, we focused mainly on recommendation algorithms. Now, we're deep into content creation analytics. We're using AI to predict hit shows before they're even made. It's a whole new game."
This info is gold. It tells you that if you're aiming for a data science career in entertainment, you might want to learn about predictive analytics and AI in content creation.
Even someone new to their role should have some idea of recent or upcoming changes. If they don't, it might raise questions about the company's ability to adapt.
After they answer, you could follow up with:
"How are these changes affecting your daily work?" "What skills do you think will be most valuable in the next few years because of these changes?"
6. What problems does your industry face?
This question is your ticket to the future of your field. It's not just chit-chat - it's a goldmine of insider info that can shape your career moves.
Here's why it's a game-changer:
It's a trend-spotter. You'll get the inside scoop on what's shaking things up. Take manufacturing, for example. The Manufacturing Institute and Deloitte Consulting LLP dropped a bombshell: 22% of manufacturing workers are set to retire in the next decade. That's huge!
It's your crystal ball. Knowing what's coming helps you prep. If they mention a hot new skill, that's your cue to start learning. In manufacturing, workers who know their way around AI and IoT are in high demand.
It shows you've got vision. Asking about challenges proves you're not just living in the now - you're thinking ahead. It's a surefire way to impress your interviewer.
When they answer, keep your ears open for:
- Tech that's flipping the industry on its head
- Shifts in what customers want
- New rules or laws shaking things up
- Workforce headaches like skill gaps
Here's a real-world example of why this matters:
The National Association of Manufacturers recently found that only 65% of manufacturing bigwigs felt good about their company's future - the lowest in over three years. That's the kind of intel that can help you navigate the industry's choppy waters.
After they spill the beans, you could ask:
"How's your company tackling these issues?" "What skills do you think will be hot commodities in solving these problems?"
Remember, understanding industry challenges isn't just about doom and gloom - it's about spotting your next big break. As Katana, a manufacturing software company, puts it:
"By understanding manufacturing challenges that could befall your company and having the solutions in place before they occur will help you overcome the treacherous seas and find those calmer waters."
So, use this question to chart your course. Today's challenges could be tomorrow's golden opportunities.
7. What helped you grow in your career?
This question is a goldmine. It uncovers the secret sauce of professional success. It's not just about climbing the corporate ladder. It's about understanding the key moments and strategies that shape a thriving career.
When you ask this, you're tapping into years of hard-earned wisdom. Here's why it's so powerful:
It reveals hidden opportunities. You might discover unconventional paths to growth you hadn't considered. Billy Ray Taylor, Founder and CEO of LinkedXL, shares:
"The best career advice I received within my first five years with Goodyear was to focus on building relationships with colleagues, managers and stakeholders across the company."
This highlights the often-overlooked importance of networking within your own organization.
It uncovers practical strategies. You'll get actionable advice you can apply right away. Audrey Van de Castle, Director of Digital Transformation - Operations Excellence at Stanley Black & Decker Inc., offers this gem:
"Declare yourself. Declare where you want your career to go (near term and long term) to your manager, your HR partner, your friends and family."
This proactive approach can open doors you didn't even know existed.
It challenges your assumptions. Sometimes, the best growth comes from unexpected places. Tim Noble, President and Recruiter at The Avery Point Group Inc., advises:
"The best advice I got upon joining the program was never to shy away from taking on a challenging role or roles that you might think don't immediately align with your career goals early in your career."
This encourages you to embrace diverse experiences, even if they seem off-track at first.
When you ask this question, listen for:
- Specific actions they took to advance their career
- Mentors or relationships that made a difference
- Skills they developed that proved crucial
- Challenges they overcame and how
You could follow up with: "How did you spot these growth opportunities?" or "What advice would you give to someone just starting in this field?"
Career growth isn't just about climbing up. It's about expanding outward too. Becky Morgan, President of Fulcrum ConsultingWorks Inc., puts it this way:
"Regardless of the narrow focus of any profession in which you may choose to develop deep expertise, you will always benefit from a broad background."
This question isn't just about gathering info. It's about crafting your own roadmap for success. Use the insights to shape your career strategy, set meaningful goals, and identify the skills and relationships you need to build.
8. What tips do you have for beginners?
This question is a goldmine. It taps into your interviewee's experience, offering practical insights that can save you time and headaches.
You'll likely get a mix of industry-specific advice and general career wisdom. Here's why it's so valuable:
It reveals hidden shortcuts. Pros often know tricks that aren't taught in school. Byron Slosar, CEO of HelloHive, puts it this way:
"Networking [should be thought of as] a verb, not a noun."
This simple shift can transform how you build professional relationships.
It highlights pitfalls to avoid. Learning from others' mistakes can help you dodge career landmines. A 2019 study found that over 70% of internships led to job offers. So, seek out those internships early!
It provides a reality check. Sometimes, the advice might challenge what you think you know. For example, many new grads are shocked to learn their first job often isn't related to their major. This can open up unexpected opportunities.
When asking this question, listen for:
- Specific actions they took early on that paid off
- Skills they wish they'd developed sooner
- Resources or tools they found helpful
Here are some tips often shared by pros:
1. Build relationships at all levels. AiLun Ku and Ray Reyes say:
"Becoming aware of your strengths as a person - beyond formal education - will enable you to network confidently and present yourself as the missing piece to an employer's hiring puzzle."
2. Never stop learning. The job market is always changing. Stay ahead by updating your skills through online courses, workshops, or certifications.
3. Don't ignore soft skills. Harvard Summer School points out:
"Employers want employees who show competence in verbal and written communication."
4. Be proactive in your job search. Use keywords like "Junior", "Associate", "Entry-Level", "Recent Graduates", and "Graduating" to find entry-level positions.
5. Prep for interviews. Research the company, practice common questions, and always send a thank-you note after.
9. Who else should I talk to?
This question is your ticket to expanding your network and getting fresh perspectives on your field. It's like unlocking a secret level in your career game.
Here's why it's so powerful:
It opens doors you didn't know existed. Sometimes, the best insights come from unexpected places. A new hire might have a take on the job market that even a seasoned exec missed.
It gives you a 360-degree view of the industry. Different roles offer different viewpoints. A product manager sees things differently than a sales rep, even in the same company.
It shows you're serious about your career. Asking for more contacts proves you're not just going through the motions.
When you ask this, focus on these groups:
Future peers: People in roles you want. They can tell you what the job's really like day-to-day. As one expert puts it:
"You might find it easier to connect with someone at your level than with the big boss."
New hires: They've just been through the job hunt. They know what the market's like right now.
Ex-employees: They can give you the real scoop. Another advisor says:
"Want the unfiltered truth about a company or boss? Talk to someone who's moved on."
After they suggest people, ask:
- "What's the best way to reach them?"
- "Any specific topics I should bring up?"
Each new contact is a potential goldmine. Use this question to build a network that'll boost your career for years.
Pro tip: If you're swamped with interviews and applications, check out scale.jobs. Their virtual assistants can handle the grunt work, letting you focus on these key conversations and interview prep.
10. How can scale.jobs help my job search?
Looking for a job can be a real pain. That's where scale.jobs comes in to make your life easier.
Here's the deal: scale.jobs uses human virtual assistants to do the boring stuff for you. They apply to jobs, write custom resumes, and craft cover letters. This means you can focus on the important stuff - like networking and prepping for interviews.
Let's break it down:
Save time: No more endless hours on job boards. Use that time for things that really matter in your job hunt.
"Our service allows job seekers to reclaim their time and energy, focusing on high-value activities that truly move the needle in their job search." - Leela Yanamaddi, co-founder of scale.jobs
Stand out: The virtual assistants create custom resumes and cover letters for each job. This ups your chances of catching an employer's eye.
Stay organized: scale.jobs keeps track of where you've applied and how it's going. No more lost applications or forgotten follow-ups.
Affordable: At $4 per hour, it's way cheaper than most virtual assistant services out there.
For everyone: Whether you're fresh out of college, dealing with layoffs, or navigating visa issues as an immigrant, scale.jobs has got your back.
Here's a quick look at their plans:
| Plan | Price | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | One-time fee | Custom resumes, cover letters, application tracking |
| Premium | One-time fee | All Standard stuff + personalized job search strategy, dedicated assistant |
Using scale.jobs isn't just about outsourcing tasks. It's about making your whole job search smarter. You'll have more time to prep for informational interviews, research companies, and build your network.
In today's job market, it's not just what you know - it's who you know and how well you can sell yourself. By taking care of the grunt work, scale.jobs lets you focus on these crucial parts of your job search.
As you keep up with your informational interviews and networking, think about how scale.jobs could boost your efforts. It might just lead to more opportunities and a faster route to landing that dream job.
Conclusion
Informational interviews pack a punch in your career toolkit. They're not just about getting info - they're about building connections that could lead to hidden job opportunities.
Here's why these 10 questions are so powerful:
- They give you a full picture of your target industry.
- They help you avoid career mistakes by testing your assumptions.
- They tap into the hidden job market, where networking often beats job postings.
Take Matt McConnell's story. He jumped from finance to marketing by going all-in on informational interviews. His prep work turned a casual chat into a job offer. Matt's advice?
"I now always overprepare."
This isn't small talk. It's your chance to show off your curiosity and potential.
But it's not just about landing a gig. Susan Peppercorn's experience in publishing shows how these interviews can help you up your game. After some tough feedback, she tweaked her approach and got better results in future interviews.
The lesson? Stay flexible and keep learning.
As you dive into your own informational interviews, keep these tips in mind:
- Do your homework: Research the person and company. Ask smart questions that show you've done your research.
- Say thanks: Send a quick thank-you note within a day. Show you appreciate their time and insights.
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Keep in touch: Let your new contact know how you're doing. Share stuff they might find interesting. Career expert John Lees says:
"Take the long view and think about ways to cultivate your new professional connection."
- Stay focused: When you meet, quickly recap who you are and why you wanted to talk. Ask targeted questions about the career, industry trends, and useful skills.
- Be open to surprises: These chats might lead you down paths you didn't expect.
By nailing informational interviews, you're not just job hunting - you're building a career. Each conversation is a chance to grow your network, learn something new, and maybe find your next big break.
Dorie Clark, who wrote Stand Out Networking, puts it this way:
"Informational interviews are essential to helping you find out more about the type of industry, company, or role you're interested in."
So, grab these 10 questions and start talking. Your next career move might be just one conversation away.
FAQs
What questions should I ask at an informal interview?
Informal interviews are your chance to get the inside scoop on an industry or role. Here's what to ask:
"How'd you break into this field?" This can uncover surprising career paths.
"What's shaking up the industry right now?" Shows you're thinking big picture.
"What skills are hot in your role?" Use this to guide your skill-building.
"Walk me through a typical day." Gets you the real deal on day-to-day work.
"What's keeping industry folks up at night?" Knowing pain points helps you solve problems.
Remember, it's a chat, not an interrogation. As Rachel Pelta from Forage puts it:
"The informational interview questions you ask can be a powerful tool in your career exploration."
What are good questions to ask in a coffee chat?
Coffee chats are more chill than informational interviews, but they're gold for networking and career insights. Try these:
"What's the biggest career hurdle you've jumped, and how?" Gets you personal stories and practical tips.
"What skills do you think will be hot in our industry soon?" Shows you're thinking long-term.
"What do you wish someone told you when you were in my shoes?" Might uncover hidden gems of advice.
"How do you keep up with industry buzz?" Could point you to killer resources.
"What's the coolest project on your plate right now?" Can lead to juicy convos about what's happening in the industry.
The secret sauce for a great coffee chat? Real curiosity and good listening. As one career pro says:
"Taking the initiative shows confidence and a genuine interest in the discussion."