Here is a list of the kind of questions to ask at an Information Interview when you are considering a career change and need information about a particular position or field of interest.
Personal Background - • Tell me how you got started in this field? • How long have you held this kind of job? • How long have you worked for this organization?
Nature of Work - • How would you describe your job? • What are the most frequently recurring problems or challenges? • How is the work changing? • What are your major responsibilities? • What are the rewards of your position? • What do you enjoy most about your work?
Working Conditions – • Does this job require primarily independent activity or is there a lot of teamwork? • What is the overall working climate/environment like? • What hours do individuals in this job usually work • Is there much flexibility? • Who evaluates your performance? How is this done? • How supported do you feel in pursuing your development goals?
Preparation Required – • Can formal educational credentials be substituted for experience? • What kind of on-the-job-training is provided? • What kind of academic background and experience is required for this position? • Are there specific courses or training programs that are particularly valuable?
Salary & Benefits- • What potential earnings can someone in this field of work anticipate? • What is a typical entry-level salary in this field? • Are there other benefits that increase total compensation?
Entry into the field – • How does one get his/her first job? How are these jobs advertised and filled? • What is the current level of opportunity for these types of positions? • Do you anticipate any change for better or worse during the next few years? • Would some