15 Smart Questions to Ask in an Informational Interview

Ever feel like breaking into a new career or industry is like trying to crack a secret code? Informational interviews are your decoder ring. They’re casual chats with professionals in your target field that can unlock insights, connections, and opportunities. Done right, they’re a game-changer for your career.

As of September 12, 2025, networking remains a top way to land jobs—70% of roles are filled through connections, per recent data. Informational interviews let you tap into that hidden job market without the awkwardness of asking for a job outright. The key? Asking thoughtful questions that spark real conversation.

This guide shares 15 smart questions to ask in an informational interview, plus tips to make the most of these chats. Let’s dive in!

What Is an Informational Interview?

An informational interview is a low-pressure conversation with someone in a role or industry you’re curious about. It’s not a job interview—it’s about learning, building relationships, and getting the inside scoop. Think of it as career research with a human touch.

Why bother? These talks help you:

• Understand what a job or industry is really like.

• Discover skills or trends you need to know.

• Build a network that can lead to referrals.

How to Set Up an Informational Interview

Before we get to the questions, here’s a quick guide to nailing the setup:

1. Find the Right Person: Use LinkedIn to identify professionals in your target field. Look for shared connections, alumni, or people whose career paths inspire you.

2. Reach Out Politely: Send a short, personalized message. Example: “Hi [Name], I’m exploring [industry] and admire your work at [company]. Would you be open to a 15-minute chat about your experience?”

3. Be Flexible: Offer to meet virtually or in-person at their convenience. Suggest a coffee shop or Zoom.

4. Prepare: Research their role, company, and industry so you can ask informed questions.

Pro Tip: Keep your initial outreach under 100 words. Busy people appreciate brevity.

15 Questions to Ask in an Informational Interview

These questions are designed to spark meaningful answers, avoid generic responses, and build rapport. They’re grouped by focus to help you mix and match.

Questions About Their Role

1. What does a typical day or week look like for you?Gets a real sense of their responsibilities and routine.

2. What’s the most rewarding part of your job?Uncovers what keeps them motivated and what you might love (or not).

3. What’s the toughest challenge you face in your role?Reveals pain points and skills you’ll need to succeed.

Questions About Their Career Path

4. How did you land your current role?Shows their journey and potential entry points for you.

5. What skills or experiences were most critical to your success?Helps you identify what to prioritize in your prep.

6. If you could go back, what would you do differently in your career?Offers honest advice to avoid common pitfalls.

Questions About the Industry

7. What’s the biggest change you’ve seen in [industry] over the past few years?Highlights trends to watch as of September 12, 2025.

8. What skills are most in demand in [industry] right now?Pinpoints what to learn to stand out.

9. What’s one thing most people don’t realize about working in [industry]?Uncovers hidden truths about the field.

Questions About Breaking In

10. What’s the best way for someone like me to break into [industry/role]?Gets tailored advice for your background.

11. Are there specific certifications, courses, or tools you recommend?Points you to practical next steps.

12. Who else in the industry would you suggest I connect with?Expands your network with trusted referrals.

Questions to Build Rapport

13. What’s one thing you wish you’d known when you started in this field?Invites personal reflection and builds connection.

14. What’s a project you’re excited about right now?Lets them share their passion, making the chat memorable.

15. How do you stay motivated or keep learning in your role?Shows you value growth and sparks a deeper convo.

Tips to Nail Your Informational Interview

• Be Curious, Not Pushy: Focus on learning, not landing a job. Avoid asking for favors upfront.

• Keep It Short: Aim for 15-20 minutes unless they offer more time.

• Take Notes: Jot down key insights to reference later (but stay engaged, don’t transcribe).

• Follow Up: Send a thank-you email within 24 hours. Example: “Thanks for sharing your insights on [specific topic]—it’s helped me focus on [next step].”

• Stay in Touch: Share an article or update them on your progress (e.g., “I took your advice and started [course]!”).

Pro Tip: Use a tool like Teal’s Networking Tracker to organize your contacts and follow-ups.

Sample Informational Interview Flow

Here’s how a 15-minute chat might go for someone exploring a data analyst role:

• 0-2 min: Thank them, explain your interest in data analysis, and confirm time.

• 3-10 min: Ask 3-4 questions (e.g., typical day, skills in demand, breaking in).

• 11-14 min: Ask a rapport-building question (e.g., their favorite project).

• 15 min: Thank them, ask for referrals, and mention you’ll follow up.

End with: “This was so helpful—mind if I reach out again as I progress?”

Final Thoughts: Make Informational Interviews Your Superpower

Informational interviews are like mini-mentorships—they give you clarity, connections, and confidence to pursue your dream career. As of September 12, 2025, the job market rewards those who build relationships and ask smart questions. Pick one person to reach out to this week, use these questions, and start unlocking doors.

What’s one question you’re excited to ask in your next informational interview? Share below—I’m curious!