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What is an informational interview? This is an interview conducted by the student to gather information about a specific job, career field, industry or company. This is not a job interview.
What are the benefits of an informational interview? By completing an informational interview, you are able to speak with an individual working in the occupation you are interested in. This is an opportunity to network within your field while exploring careers in your field of study.
Who should I interview? You should interview people who are working in the field you are interested in. They will be able to provide you insight to working specific positions as well as other job opportunities available to you. You may schedule an appointment with a career coordinator or speak to someone in the YSU alumni office, so they may help you make this contact.
How do I conduct the interview? First you will schedule a date and time for the interview. You should offer to do this at the individual's place of employment. You should be on time, dressed professionally, and have a list of questions prepared about the company and the job you are interested in.
Should I follow up after the interview? Yes. You should send a thank you note within 24-48 hours after the interview. You will want to maintain a filing system of who you contacted, their name, occupation, company, phone numbers, emails, as well as all of your notes and information you gathered during the interview.
Possible Informational Interview Questions: Qualifications ° What degree is required for this position? ° Are there internships available? ° Does this company provide training? ° Are there specific licenses needed for this position? ° Are there specific courses recommended for this position?
Position Questions ° What are the typical duties performed in a day, week, month, or year? ° What are your basic job duties? ° What are some of the challenges this position faces? ° Do you have a job description I could see? ° What are the average salary ranges for this position? ° What was your course of obtaining the position you currently hold? ° Is relocation a possibility in this field?
Organization/Company Questions ° What made you choose to work for this company? ° What are some of the benefits this company offers? ° Could you please describe the work atmosphere in your company? ° What is the overall reputation of this company? ° What is the strategic plan for this company in terms of growth in the next 10 years? ° What would you say is the number one benefit in terms of working for this company? |