When exploring career options, it’s normal to feel uncertain about which path is right for you.
Informational interviews are a valuable way to gain insights from industry professionals and determine if a particular career is the right fit.
Preparation is essential in this regard—no one wants to waste time, so it’s important to approach these conversations with focus and purpose.
If you’ve already taken the first step of scheduling conversations with industry experts, you already have a headstart. 📅
Now, the real value comes from how you use that time to gather insights and leave a lasting impression. By asking thoughtful, well-prepared questions, you can ensure that each conversation is valuable and impactful. 💬
To help you, we’ve compiled a list of the best informational interview questions to ask. Read on!
Fuel Your Career Growth: 30 Insightful Informational Questions to Ask
Summarize this article for me pleaseWhat Is an Informational Interview?
An informational interview is a conversation between someone exploring a specific career path, industry, or company and a professional with relevant experience.
Unlike a traditional job interview, the goal isn’t to secure a position but to gather valuable insights, advice, and knowledge about a company, career path, or industry trends.
For example, if you’re interested in a marketing career, you might contact a marketing manager at a company you’re curious about and schedule a 20-minute chat over coffee or virtually. ☕️
During the conversation, you could ask about their daily responsibilities, how they got started in the field, and any advice for someone entering the profession. This informal exchange gives you a clearer picture of the role and helpful tips for preparing to enter the marketing field. 🎯
How to Prepare for an Informational Interview
Whether you’re seeking a business mentor or exploring new career opportunities, preparing well for an informational interview can leave a lasting impression and ensure you make the most of the conversation.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get ready:
Step 1: Define your goals
Be clear on what you want to achieve. Outline your objectives, such as gaining insights into a specific career path, discovering industry trends, or learning about the skills needed for success in the field.
Step 2: Research the person and their background
Take time to understand the individual’s career trajectory, roles, and any shared connections or interests. This will help you craft thoughtful questions that demonstrate you’ve done your homework.
Also, familiarize yourself with the company’s recent developments, projects, or challenges. This background knowledge allows you to ask relevant, insightful questions that connect your interests to their work.
Step 3: Prepare focused questions using the right tools
Develop a list of open-ended questions to guide the conversation. These should encourage detailed responses and allow the person to share their experiences naturally.
Next, dig deeper into specific topics that align with your goals. Tailoring each question will help you gain practical insights rather than vague answers. Additionally, make sure that you use the right tools to put together and prepare a coherent set of questions.
For example, ClickUp, an all-in-one productivity platform, combines content creation, editing, and collaboration features. It allows you to easily organize and refine your questions, ensuring a smooth and impactful informational interview.
ClickUp Reminders
For instance, use ClickUp Reminders to manage important dates and deadlines. Whether you’re using it on your browser, desktop, or mobile, you can set alerts to ensure you never miss a scheduled interview or task. This feature helps you stay organized and align your preparation and workflow, from interview notifications to follow-up reminders.
ClickUp Interview Process Template
The ClickUp Interview Process Template brings structure and consistency to your interview planning. It helps you organize each step, from creating a list of questions to collaborating with your team and tracking candidates efficiently, turning what could be a chaotic process into a smooth and productive experience.
With this template, you can:
- Design, test, and optimize your interview process for faster, more accurate assessments
- Collaborate with stakeholders throughout the entire process, ensuring everyone is aligned
- Create tasks for each interview phase—from scheduling and conducting interviews to evaluating and making decisions
- Assign tasks, add comments, and involve relevant stakeholders in reviewing and refining interview questions and candidate profiles
- Track each stage with customized statuses to ensure clarity, consistency, and timely progress
ClickUp Docs
ClickUp Docs is the perfect tool for compiling and presenting your informational interview questions in a clear, organized manner. With the help of this feature, you can create an interview guide with nested pages for different sections, such as introductory questions, in-depth career insights, and wrap-up questions.
ClickUp Notepad
ClickUp Notepad is another powerful feature for organizing your thoughts, checklists, and key takeaways during your informational interviews.
With this feature, you can:
- Format your notes with headers, bold text, bullet points, and more to keep your thoughts organized and easy to reference
- Quickly locate specific information by searching for keywords in the titles or descriptions of your notes—perfect for tracking insights from multiple interviews
- Turn your notes into actionable tasks or Docs, making it easy to turn insights into follow-up actions or reference materials for later interviews
ClickUp Brain
Additionally, ClickUp Brain optimizes work processes by providing intelligent, context-based assistance tailored to your professional needs. With its Knowledge Manager feature, you can quickly generate, review, or brainstorm informational interview questions.
For instance, you can input a prompt like, “Create 30 detailed informational interview questions,” and the AI will leverage its knowledge database to provide a comprehensive list of questions:
Step 4: Practice your introduction
Prepare to introduce yourself in 1–2 sentences. Include your background, current interests, and why you reached out for this conversation.
Also, make sure you mention why you’re particularly interested in their perspective (e.g., similar career backgrounds, specific industry experience).
Step 5: Finalize the details and prepare to connect
While most informational interviews take place via video call, consider offering to meet in person if they are local and open to it. Regardless of the format, be mindful of the other person’s time. Aim for a 20–30 minute conversation unless they offer to extend it.
➡️ Read More: How to Use AI for Interview Preparation
Summarize this article for me pleaseTop 30 Questions to Ask in an Informational Interview
Here are 30 insightful informational interview questions that will help you stand out, build connections, and gain valuable knowledge. Ready to impress and learn from industry experts?
Let’s get into it then:
1. What does a typical day look like in your role?
This question gives insight into the daily responsibilities and challenges of the job. It helps you understand what to expect and whether it aligns with your interests and skills.
Example: A project manager might describe a day filled with team meetings, progress checks, and cross-department collaboration.
2. How did you break into this industry?
This question helps uncover the pathways others have taken, offering inspiration and practical tips for your own career journey.
Example: The interviewee might share that they began as interns, took specific courses, or networked extensively to land their current role.
3. What skills do you find most valuable for success in this field?
This question identifies essential skills that employers look for and allows you to assess if you need to develop or improve on them.
Example: A graphic designer might emphasize the importance of creativity, attention to detail, and proficiency in design software like Adobe Creative Suite.
4. What are some common challenges in your position?
Learning about the difficulties in a role prepares you for potential obstacles and helps you decide if you’re equipped to handle them.
Example: A software developer might mention tight deadlines and the constant need to learn new technologies as key challenges.
💡 Pro Tip: Ask them about a challenge they once struggled with and how they overcame it. The story behind their growth can reveal valuable insights into resilience and adaptability!
5. How do you ask for client testimonials in this career?
This question helps you understand how to build credibility and leverage positive client experiences to enhance your professional reputation.
Example: A marketing consultant might share strategies for requesting testimonials after successful campaigns, such as asking for feedback after project completion or offering incentives for referrals.
6. How do you stay current with industry trends?
Knowing how experienced professionals keep up with changes helps you adopt similar strategies for staying informed.
Example: A marketing executive might mention attending webinars, following industry thought leaders on LinkedIn, or subscribing to relevant newsletters to stay informed.
7. What is the work culture like at your company?
Understanding work culture helps gauge if a company’s environment matches your work style and values.
Example: A tech company’s hiring manager could describe a collaborative and flexible culture with remote work options and regular team-building activities.
8. Are there any professional associations or networks you recommend joining?
This question helps identify groups or communities that provide support, learning, and networking opportunities. Beyond formal associations, joining peer mentoring networks can be incredibly beneficial.
Example: A financial analyst might suggest joining associations like the CFA Institute for certification and networking.
💡 Pro Tip: Find your next career mentor by asking about the most impactful advice they’ve received—it could lead you to someone who’s shaped their success! 🌟
9. How has your job changed since you started working in this field?
This shows how a profession evolves over time, giving you insight into potential future trends and skills to prioritize.
Example: A journalist might discuss how digital and social media platforms have transformed reporting compared to when it began.
10. What advice would you give to someone starting out in this industry?
Direct advice from an experienced professional can guide your initial steps and help you avoid common mistakes.
Example: A seasoned engineer could recommend gaining hands-on experience through internships and emphasizing problem-solving skills.
11. What are the most important qualities for someone to excel in this role?
This question helps you understand the personality traits and work ethics that are valued in the industry or position, complementing what you might see in a job description.
Example: A sales manager might emphasize being proactive, resilient, and having strong interpersonal skills.
12. What are some misconceptions most people have about this job?
This question reveals common myths or misunderstandings, giving you a clearer picture of what the job is really like beyond what job descriptions might convey.
Example: An event planner might share that while the job seems glamorous, it involves a lot of behind-the-scenes stress and problem-solving.
13. Can you tell me about a recent project you worked on and your role in it?
This question helps you get a tangible example of day-to-day work and the kinds of tasks you might face.
Example: A UX researcher might describe a project where they conducted user research to understand pain points in a mobile app’s design.
14. What do you enjoy most about your job?
This reveals the rewarding aspects of the job and helps you decide if these align with what you must seek in your job search.
Example: A teacher might express how seeing students understand new concepts makes the work fulfilling.
15. What’s the biggest challenge facing your industry right now?
Understanding current challenges helps you prepare for issues you may encounter and shows awareness during interviews.
Example: A cybersecurity expert might mention the rapid pace of new threats and the constant need for updated security measures.
16. What are some trends you see in this career field over the next few years?
This question provides insight into how the industry is changing and what skills or technologies might be worth learning.
Example: A healthcare professional could talk about the increasing importance of telemedicine and personalized patient care.
💡 Pro Tip: Request to know about any unconventional sources of learning—like niche forums or less-talked-about podcasts. 🕵️♂️
17. How do you measure success in your job?
This shows what performance metrics are valued and helps you understand what success looks like in that career.
Example: A product manager might measure success by the launch of a successful product and positive user feedback.
18. What’s one thing you wish you knew when you were starting out?
This question helps you gather information and potential pitfalls to avoid when beginning in the field.
Example: A writer might advise you to network consistently and not just rely on published work, as building a rapport with editors and fellow writers is key to advancing in the field.
19. How do you handle work-life balance in this role?
Understanding how demanding a role can be helps you manage your expectations and assess if the job suits your lifestyle. This question also provides insights into how professionals maintain connections and relationships while working remotely, which is crucial for most jobs.
Example: A senior consultant might share that they prioritize time management, set clear boundaries for work hours, and use flexible scheduling to ensure they can balance client meetings with personal time, especially when working remotely.
🧠 Remember: If you’re wondering how to make friends at work, you need to do the following:
- Be approachable and open to conversations 🤝
- Show genuine interest in your colleagues’ lives and work 🌟
- Join team activities or social events to bond outside of work 🏆
- Offer help or support when needed to build trust 🤗
- Stay positive and maintain a friendly attitude every day 😊
20. What tools or software do you use regularly?
Knowing what tools or software are commonly used in the role can help you prepare by learning them ahead of time.
Example: A graphic designer might mention using Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Canva as part of their daily work.
21. What is the format of the interview, and will it be conducted remotely?
Understanding the structure and logistics of the interview helps you prepare better and manage your expectations. Asking about the interview format—whether it will be in-person, remote, or a mix—clarifies the approach and lets you tailor your preparation.
Example: An HR professional might explain that their company conducts an initial video interview followed by a panel interview, giving you insights on what to expect and how to prepare accordingly.
➡️ Read More: Remote Interview Tips to Prepare for Your Next Interview
22. What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned in your career?
This question taps into hard-earned wisdom and helps you understand key takeaways that could shape your career path.
Example: An entrepreneur might share that persistence and being open to failure have been essential to their success.
23. How do you typically collaborate with other departments or teams?
This question sheds light on the level of cross-functional work involved and how important teamwork is within the role.
Example: A product developer might explain collaborating frequently with marketing, sales, and engineering to ensure product alignment with market needs.
24. Are there any certifications or courses you would recommend for someone interested in this field?
This provides specific guidance on additional education that can help bolster your qualifications and make you a more attractive candidate.
Example: A financial advisor might suggest earning a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) certification to enhance credibility and career opportunities.
25. What kind of work experience is most beneficial for breaking into this field?
This question helps identify the types of roles—entry-level roles, internships, or mid-senior-level experiences.
Example: A PR professional could mention that internships at PR agencies or experience in event planning can be highly beneficial for gaining relevant skills.
26. How do you prioritize tasks and manage time effectively in this role?
This question helps you understand the workload and time management strategies that are effective in the role.
Example: A project manager might explain how to use task management tools like Trello, Asana, or ClickUp and prioritize tasks based on deadlines and project impact.
27. Have you seen people transition into this role from other fields? If so, how did they do it?
This is useful for understanding if career pivots are possible and what paths others have taken to switch into the industry.
Example: A UX designer might share that many people transitioned from graphic design or psychology by taking relevant courses and building a strong portfolio.
28. What do you think the future holds for professionals in this field?
This question explores the field’s longevity and potential growth, helping you assess its sustainability as a career choice.
Example: An IT professional might discuss the rise of artificial intelligence and automation, emphasizing the need for continued tech skill development.
29. What are some key mistakes to avoid when entering this career?
This allows you to learn from others’ experiences and avoid common pitfalls that could delay or hinder your career progress.
Example: A journalist might warn against failing to build a diverse portfolio or not networking consistently within media circles.
30. Can you recommend any resources (books, websites, or podcasts) for someone interested in this field?
This question points you toward helpful materials that can deepen your understanding and keep you informed about industry trends.
Example: A marketing expert might recommend books like “Contagious: How to Build Word of Mouth in the Digital Age” by Jonah Berger or suggest following industry podcasts like Marketing Over Coffee.
➡️ Read More: How to Find a Software Engineering Mentor
Summarize this article for me pleaseEtiquette and Best Practices for Conducting Informational Interviews
Approaching informational interviews with the right mindset can help you build genuine connections and gain valuable insights.
Here are some key best practices to keep in mind:
- Focus on mutual value: Think about how you can contribute to the conversation. Share relevant articles, insights, or connections that might be of interest to them. This shows you’re thinking beyond just your benefit
- Ask for unconventional wisdom: Instead of relying solely on traditional questions, ask for advice they wish they had received or lessons learned from unexpected experiences. This can uncover unique, valuable insights
- Listen more than you speak: Treat the conversation as a learning opportunity. Prioritize their stories and insights over sharing your own, showing that you’re genuinely interested in their perspective
- Use open-ended questions: Frame your questions to encourage detailed responses, rather than simple yes or no answers. This leads to richer insights and prompts the interviewee to share more about their experiences
💡 Pro Tip: Wondering how to spot red flags in job interviews? Here are some strategies to follow:
- Look for vague or contradictory answers about company culture 👀
- Pay attention to negative language when discussing past employees or projects 🚩
- Notice if they avoid answering questions directly 🚫
- Observe their reluctance to talk about career growth opportunities 🚷
- Watch for unprofessional behavior or poor communication skills during the interview 🤔
Summarize this article for me pleaseHow to End the Interview Gracefully
Wrapping up an informational interview smoothly is just as important as starting it.
Here’s how to leave a positive impression:
- Confirm their preferred follow-up: Ask if they prefer being contacted via email or LinkedIn, signaling that you respect their communication preferences
- Express genuine gratitude: Thank them for their time and insights, highlighting one specific point or takeaway that resonated with you
- Offer to reciprocate: Mention that you’d be happy to share any relevant industry insights or resources that might be helpful to them
- Conclude with a compliment: End with an authentic compliment about their work or career, showing that you appreciate their expertise
Summarize this article for me pleasePost-Interview Follow Up
Following up after an informational interview is essential for building professional relationships and making the most of what you’ve learned.
Here’s how to follow up thoughtfully and effectively:
- Send a thank-you note: Within 24 hours, send a personalized thank-you email. Mention specific points from the conversation that were particularly insightful or helpful to show genuine appreciation for their time and advice
- Reflect on key takeaways: After the interview, jot down key insights, skills to develop, and any career paths that stood out to you. This helps solidify what you’ve learned and keeps these takeaways accessible for future reference
- Update your career strategy: Integrate relevant advice into your career plans. If the conversation highlighted a skill gap or potential development area, add this to your career goals or learning objectives
- Schedule a check-in: If the conversation went well, consider scheduling a brief check-in after a few months. Updating them on any actions you took based on their advice demonstrates follow-through and keeps the connection warm
- Organize and track your follow up: Keep track of everyone you’ve met and the key takeaways from each conversation. Use simple tools like a spreadsheet or task management app to stay organized and ensure you follow up effectively. Make notes about each conversation, track any action items or next steps, and set reminders for when it’s time to reconnect
You can also use ClickUp Tasks to create a clear follow-up action plan. Set up tasks for each follow-up step, such as sending thank-you notes or reflecting on key insights.
Custom statuses like “Drafting Thank-You” or “Career Strategy Updated” can help you stay organized and track your progress, ensuring you complete each step efficiently.
Summarize this article for me pleaseCommon Mistakes to Avoid in Informational Interviews
To make the most of your informational interviews, steer clear of these common pitfalls:
- Dominating the conversation: Avoid talking too much about yourself. This is your opportunity to learn from them, not to showcase your résumé
- Rushing through questions: Don’t treat the session as a checklist. Take the time to delve deeper into their answers and engage thoughtfully
- Asking easily answerable questions: Refrain from asking questions that could have been easily researched beforehand, as it may seem like a lack of preparation or genuine interest
- Not preparing enough questions: Coming unprepared can leave awkward silences. Plan a sufficient number of questions to keep the conversation flowing and insightful
- Misinterpreting the purpose: Remember, an informational interview is about gathering insights and building connections, not about directly asking for a job or favor
Summarize this article for me pleaseAce Your Informational Interview Like a Pro With ClickUp
Informational interviews can be one of the most effective ways to gain industry insights, expand your network, and accelerate your career journey.
However, conducting a successful informational interview requires careful planning, time management, and follow-up. This is where ClickUp, the all-in-one productivity tool, can be a game-changer.
With ClickUp’s suite of features, such as Task Management, Reminders, and Templates, you can stay organized, prepare for interviews efficiently, and track all follow-up actions seamlessly. Whether it’s scheduling meetings, organizing notes, or tracking key takeaways, ClickUp helps you manage the entire process with ease and precision.
Ready to crush your informational interviews? Take the first step toward career success—sign up on ClickUp today! 🚀
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