Taking full advantage of conversations with mentors is essential for maximizing your career potential. Prepare for an informational interview or networking event by reviewing this list and saving your favorites.
Questions on what inspired them to pursue their current career:
- What was your major? How was it helpful?
- How did you get into this occupation? Get started in this job?/What did you do before your current position?
- How did you prepare yourself for this job? For this profession?
- What is the most valuable thing you learned during your training?
Questions on becoming a competitive applicant:
- What is the most relevant major, course of study or preparation?
- What classes or projects can I undertake to prepare myself for this career area?
- What skills or talents are essential for effectiveness in this job?
- What qualities make someone successful at your company?
- What are the top professional associations, journals and websites in your field?
- What training, education or experience is required for this type of work?
- What recommendations do you have for job searching?
Questions on their Day-to-Day:
- What are your general tasks and responsibilities?
- Do you feel you have a work-life balance? How many hours do you work?
- What do you do? Describe a typical day.
- What do you enjoy about your career?/What don’t you enjoy?
- What do you find to be the best things about your profession? The worst?
- What is the culture/work environment like?
Questions on their Industry:
- What are the top companies in your industry?
- What are the occupations in this field?
- What other career fields are related to what you are currently doing?
- What are the specialties in this area?
- What are some of the growing concerns in this profession?
- How do you see jobs in this field changing in the future?
Questions on Next Steps:
- Do you know if your company has internships and how I could apply for them?
- Would you be open to being shadowed for few hours?