Sample Questions to Ask in An Informational Interview

Preparation/Training

• How do people break into this field?
• What is the best preparation for this kind of work?
• What training is needed?
• Are there any publications which I should read to gain more insight in to this field?
•  Are there courses I should be taking at Dickinson?
• Should I do an internship? Do you recommend a particular site?
• Do you recommend a graduate degree? If so, which one?

How To Get A Job in the Field

• What are the criteria for being hired in this field?
• Ideally, what should I have on my resume?
• What are typical entry-level positions?
• How did you get your start in this field?
• Can you recommend particular employers I should look into?

Characteristics of the Field

• Could you describe a typical work day?
• What are the major frustrations of your job?
•  What trends do you see in your field?
• What do you like most about your job?
• What do you like least about your job?
• What kinds of people do you work with on a daily basis?
• Who succeeds in this field?
• What personality traits do you need to be successful?

Additional Assistance

• Can you provide names of others who would be able to give me information and advice this career field? May I say that you suggested I contact them?
• Would you be willing to review my resume if I faxed it to you?
• Are there important things I need to know about this field that I haven't brought up?