The best questions to ask will evolve from things you are truly interested in knowing (i.e. career preparation, work environment, search strategies, etc.). Review a sample list of questions below and consider having five to ten questions prepared for a 30-minute phone meeting.
- Can you tell me more about your career path?
- What are the important skills required within your position?
- What is a typical day like for you?
- How did you obtain your entry level position in this field?
- What education is required for your position?
- What keeps you at your current organization?
- Are there any experiences you had during your undergraduate or graduate school time that helped you gain required skills or helped clarify your career path?
- How did you know you were following the right career path for you?
- I am trying to learn more about xyz. Do you know if there is a professional association within that industry that I could examine?
- What is your favorite and least favorite part of your position?
- What do you think is the most important aspect to consider when choosing a career path?
- I plan on pursuing a long distance job search and I see you live on the west coast. Do you have any tips on how to make connections with organizations in another state prior to moving?
- I see your major is not related to your current field of work. How did you gain the skills to break into your current position?
- Where do you see xyz field going in the future? Are there any new technologies or forecasted growth in the field?
- Within the field of xyz there are many organizations that I could apply to. Do you have tips for evaluating organizations?
Avoid questions that are personal in nature, relate to salary, or could be perceived as judgmental.