Navigating the career world can be daunting, especially when you're trying to understand a new job role. The secret sauce? Informational interviews. They give you a chance to get the inside scoop, straight from the horse's mouth. But, to make the most out of these, you need to know the right questions to ask during an informational interview.

1. Questions to ask about the job role

Diving right in, let's begin with the questions to ask about the job role. Because, after all, you need to know if the role fits you like a glove, right?

Remember, the goal here isn't just to learn about the job role but to also show your curiosity and interest. So, don't be shy to ask these questions. After all, the more you know, the better you can decide if this role is the perfect fit for you. The right questions to ask during an informational interview can be your career compass, guiding you towards the right role, in the right industry, at the right company.

2. Questions to ask about the company culture

Shifting gears, let's talk about the company culture. Why? Because finding a job isn't just about the role, it's also about finding a place where you feel at home. So it's important to have a list of questions to ask during an informational interview that speak to the company culture.

The answers to these questions can help paint a picture of the company's culture. It can show you if they value teamwork over competition, if they encourage innovation, or if they believe in work-life balance. Remember, you're not just finding a job, you're also finding a place where you'll spend most of your waking hours. So, don't hesitate to ask these questions during an informational interview. Because, at the end of the day, you want to find a company culture that fits you as perfectly as your favorite pair of jeans.

3. Questions to ask about career progression

Let's navigate to our next destination in this journey: career progression. You're not just looking for a job, you're looking for a career. A place where you can grow, learn, and reach new heights. That's why it's important to ask about career progression during an informational interview. So, let's dive into the questions:

Asking these questions during an informational interview can help you determine if the company is a good fit for your long-term career goals. After all, you're not just looking for a job, you're building a career. And like building a house, you want to make sure the foundation is solid. The answers to these questions can help ensure that the company you choose can support your growth and help you reach your career goals. So, don't shy away from asking about career progression. It's your career, after all. You have every right to know where it can lead you.

4. Questions to ask about the industry

Moving on to the next stop on our journey: the industry. The industry you're in can significantly influence your career growth and opportunities. So, it's worth asking some questions about it during an informational interview. Here's what you might want to know:

Asking these questions during an informational interview can help you gain a deeper understanding of the industry you're considering. It's like looking at the map before setting off on a journey. You want to know the terrain, the main sights, and potential obstacles in your path. So, remember to ask about the industry. After all, you're not just choosing a job or a company, you're choosing a field to play in. Choose wisely!

5. Questions to ask about work-life balance

Let's shift gears and focus on an area that's often overlooked in the job hunt: work-life balance. It's crucial to know what you're getting into—not just in terms of your job role and the industry, but also how your work will fit into your life. Here are a few questions to include in your informational interview:

Remember, work is a part of life, not the other way around. So, these questions around work-life balance during an informational interview are as important as any other. After all, a job that looks great on paper may not feel so great if it leaves you with no time or energy for the things you love. So, don't shy away from asking these questions. It's your life, and you have the right to know how a potential job might fit into it.

6. Questions to ask for advice on your career path

Alright, now let's shift up another gear. This time, let's focus on you—the big picture, your career path. You've got questions about your future, and who better to ask than someone who's been there, done that? Here are some great questions to ask during your informational interview:

Remember, an informational interview isn't just about getting information—it's about making connections and gaining insights. So, don't just ask questions; listen—really listen—to the answers. You might just find that the most valuable advice you get isn't the answer to any specific question, but the wisdom and experiences that your interviewee shares with you along the way.