Informational interviews only last 15-30 minutes, so the questions you ask matter. The best ones don’t just gather facts; they spark stories, surface unexpected insights, and help you picture what life could be like in that major or career.
1. What Makes a Good Informational Interview Question
A great question does more than ask for information; it starts a conversation. You want to learn not just what someone does, but why they do it, what they love or struggle with, and how they got there.
Tip: Ask open-ended questions. Avoid questions that can be answered with “Yes” or “No.”
2. Smart Question Categories to Use
Current Job
- What is your current job? What value are you trying to create?
- What do you love about your job?
- What do you find challenging about your job?
Education Path
- What did you major in, and what led you to choose it?
- If you could go back, would you study the same thing again?
Career Journey
- What was your first job out of college, and how did you find it?
- Has your role changed since you started?
Daily Work Life
- What’s a typical day like for you?
Skills and Preparation
- What classes, projects, or skills have helped you the most?
- Are there tools or programs you use regularly?
Advice and Insight
- What do you wish you’d known as a student?
- What advice would you give someone exploring this path?
3. What to Avoid
- Avoid questions with answers you could easily Google.
- Don’t ask about salary unless they offer it first.
- Keep it about learning, not asking for a job or internship.
Informational Interviews for Students Who Are Shy or Anxious
4. How to Stay Curious and Build Connection
Follow-up questions show you’re really listening. If they say they switched majors, ask why. If they mention a challenge, ask how they handled it. These questions lead to the stories that make informational interviews so powerful.
5. Overwhelmed or Need Help Thinking of Questions?
You’re not alone, most students feel unsure about what to ask, especially during their first conversation. That’s why MajorMentor lets you see what others have asked. You can watch real interviews and hear how grads respond, giving you ideas and confidence.
“After watching just a few interviews, I had tons of ideas I wouldn’t have thought of on my own.”
Final Thought
You don’t need a script-just curiosity and a few strong starter questions. Great questions lead to honest answers-and honest answers lead to smarter choices.