In the fast-paced U.S. job market of 2025, where AI tools are reshaping resumes and interviews, mastering informational interview questions has never been more crucial for career growth. Whether you’re a recent graduate navigating entry-level opportunities, a mid-career professional eyeing a pivot, or someone re-entering the workforce after a break, informational interview questions can unlock doors that traditional job applications simply can’t. These conversations aren’t about begging for a job they’re strategic sessions for gathering insider intel, building authentic job search networking connections, and refining your path forward.
According to 2025 Report, 70% of jobs are filled through networking. Informational interviews are a proven way to turn cold connections into warm referrals.
This updated guide will cover:
- Quick list of top 10 informational interview questions
- 45 informational interview questions with explanations.
- Mistakes to avoid (informational interview do’s and don’ts).
- Step-by-step preparation guide.
- How AI and virtual networking shape interviews in 2025.
- Sample outreach scripts.
- Expanded FAQs optimized for U.S. job seekers.
Table of Contents
Quick List: Top 10 Informational Interview Questions (2025)
For job seekers in a hurry, here are the 10 most effective informational interview questions you can ask today:
- Can you describe your career path and key transitions?
- What’s a typical day like in your role?
- Which skills are most valuable in your position?
- What trends are shaping your industry in 2025?
- How does your company use AI or automation?
- What do you wish you knew before starting this career?
- What are the biggest challenges employees face here?
- How is success measured in your role or company?
- What advice would you give someone pivoting into this field?
- Is there anyone else you’d recommend I connect with?
💡 Keep reading for 45+ more detailed questions, explanations, templates, and 2025-specific tips.
What Is an Informational Interview?
An informational interview is a low-pressure conversation with a professional in your target field, company, or role. Unlike a job interview, where the focus is on selling yourself, this is your chance to:
- Ask thoughtful questions.
- Gather insider knowledge.
- Explore whether a career path aligns with your skills and lifestyle.
In 2025, with U.S. unemployment hovering around 4.1% (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and remote roles comprising 30%+ of listings, most informational interviews happen virtually via Zoom or LinkedIn calls.
Why Informational Interviews Matter in 2025
- Cuts Through AI Barriers – ATS filters and AI résumé screeners often block candidates before humans ever see applications. Personal connections bypass this.
- Reveals Hidden Jobs – Many roles aren’t advertised publicly but come through referrals.
- Gives Real-World Insights – Career development questions uncover how industries are evolving with AI, automation, and hybrid work.
- Builds Authentic Relationships – Informational interview tips help you connect beyond “cold networking.”
How to Request an Informational Interview
Identify the Right Contacts
- LinkedIn (search alumni, mutuals, or industry leaders).
- University alumni networks.
- Professional associations (e.g., SHRM for HR roles).
Craft a Polite, Concise Outreach
Aim for 20-30 minutes, respecting their time.
Sample Email Template for Requesting an Informational Interview
Subject: Request for 20-Minute Chat on [Industry/Role] Insights
Hi [Name],
I’m [Your Name], a [your current role/status, e.g., recent USC graduate in communications]. I came across your profile and was impressed by your journey at [Company], especially your work in [specific achievement, e.g., AI-driven marketing strategies].
As I explore opportunities in [field], I’d value your perspective on the industry. Would you be open to a 20-minute virtual call next week? I’m flexible on timing.
Thank you for considering—your expertise would be greatly appreciated.
Best,
[Your Name]
[LinkedIn/Profile Link]
Sample LinkedIn Message
“Hi [Name], I admire your work in [industry]. I’m exploring career paths in [field] and would value a short 20-minute chat to hear about your experience. Would you be open to connecting?”
Outreach Tips
- Personalize – Reference their background or a shared connection.
- Follow up once if no response in 7 days.
- Be inclusive – Acknowledge shared experiences if reaching out to diverse professionals.
How to Prepare for an Informational Interview
Preparation is what separates a forgettable chat from a career-changing conversation.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
- Define Your Goals – Do you want advice on skills? Company culture? Industry future?
- Research Deeply – Read LinkedIn, news articles, and industry reports.
- Curate Questions – Pick 8-10 tailored to their background.
- Practice Delivery – Use tools like Yoodli or Google’s Interview Warmup to improve.
- Tech Setup (Virtual) – Test video, lighting, and mic before the call.
- Bring Tools – Notebook, or use Otter.ai to transcribe.
45 Best Informational Interview Questions (With Explanations)
The heart of any session is the questions. We’ve expanded to 45, drawing from various sources, grouped for comprehensive coverage. Each includes why it works, helping you adapt career advice questions.
Career Path Questions
1. Can you describe your career path and key transitions?
Why: Reveals non-linear paths common in today’s economy.
2. What initially drew you to this industry?
Why: Helps align motivations.
3. What pivotal decisions shaped your success?
Why: Highlights risks worth considering.
4. Any unexpected challenges or pivots?
Why: Prepares you for potential hurdles.
5. What advice would you give newcomers in 2025?
Why: Contextualized for today’s AI-driven market.
6. How has AI influenced your career trajectory?
Why: Relevant for understanding future skills.
7. What role did mentorship play?
Why: Shows importance of relationships.
Company & Role-Specific Questions
8. What’s a typical day like in your role?
Why: Goes beyond job descriptions.
9. Which skills are most valuable here?
Why: Helps you prioritize learning.
10. What projects have been most rewarding?
Why: Reveals job satisfaction drivers.
11. What are the biggest challenges in your position?
Why: Balanced perspective.
12. How is success measured in your company?
Why: Clarifies performance expectations.
13. Are there opportunities for growth?
Why: Evaluates career development.
14. How has remote/hybrid work changed your role?
Why: Essential in 2025.
Industry Insight Questions
15. What trends should newcomers watch in 2025?
Why: Helps you stay ahead of change.
16. How has your industry changed since you started?
Why: Historical perspective.
17. What skills will be most valuable in 5-10 years?
Why: Future-proofing your career.
18. Which emerging technologies matter most?
Why: AI, automation, or sector-specific tech.
19. Who are thought leaders to follow?
Why: Expands your learning circle.
20. How are economic shifts affecting jobs in your industry?
Why: U.S.-specific relevance.
21. What role does DEI play in your industry?
Why: Inclusivity and equity insights.
Networking & Advice Questions
22. What professional associations should I join?
Why: Networking opportunities.
23. Any books, podcasts, or newsletters you recommend?
Why: Practical resources.
24. What advice do you have for career changers?
Why: For pivots and transitions.
25. Is there anyone else you’d suggest I connect with?
Why: Expands network immediately.
26. What habits or skills helped you succeed?
Why: Learn from their best practices.
27. How do you avoid burnout?
Why: Important for work-life balance.
28. What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Why: Condensed wisdom.
29. How do you use AI in your daily work?
Why: Modern twist.
Advanced & Inclusive Questions
30. What advancement opportunities exist here?
Why: Career trajectory.
31. How would you describe company culture?
Why: Beyond the website.
32. What are the biggest challenges employees face?
Why: Honest perspective.
33. What personal traits are most valued here?
Why: Highlights soft skills.
34. What tech tools should I learn before entering?
Why: Prepares you technically.
35. What aspects of the profession are most fulfilling?
Why: Motivation check.
36. How inclusive is your company for diverse professionals?
Why: Equity perspective.
37. What’s the typical entry-level salary range?
Why: Sets expectations.
38. How is work-life balance in your role?
Why: 2025 priority.
39. If you could redo one career decision, what would it be?
Why: Lessons learned.
40. How do you handle remote collaboration?
Why: Practical virtual advice.
41. What AI tools improve efficiency in your role?
Why: Tech-forward.
42. Are mentorship programs available for underrepresented groups?
Why: Inclusivity focus.
43. Where do you see company growth in 5 years?
Why: Stability check.
44. What skills do you wish you had developed earlier?
Why: Self-reflection insight.
45. How can I stand out when networking in this industry?
Why: Actionable networking tip.
Informational Interview Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s
- Research the person & company.
- Listen actively. Follow up on answers.
- Keep it concise (20-30 minutes).
- Follow up with gratitude.
- Ask open-ended questions.
Don’ts
- Ask for a job outright.
- Dominate the conversation.
- Skip preparation.
- Forget to follow up.
- Neglect virtual etiquette (e.g., poor lighting)
Conducting Informational Interviews Virtually
More than 70% of U.S. professionals prefer hybrid work or totally remote (Gallup Indicator):
- Dress professionally (waist up at minimum).
- Use stable Wi-Fi and good lighting.
- Enable captions for accessibility.
- Use Zoom/Teams AI assistants to transcribe notes.
Leveraging AI Tools
- ChatGPT – Draft personalized questions.
- Google Interview Warmup – Practice speaking.
- Otter.ai – Transcribe calls.
- LinkedIn AI Assistant – Auto-suggest outreach.
Following Up After an Informational Interview
A single meeting isn’t enough. To build lasting relationships and sustain job search networking, solidify connections with a thank-you email within 24 hours. Reference a key insight from your informational interview questions. Update them on progress; offer reciprocal value. This turns one-off chats into ongoing professional bonds.
Sample Follow-Up Email
Subject: Thank You for Our Informational Chat
Dear [Name],
Thank you for sharing your insights on [specific topic]. Your advice on [key takeaway, e.g., AI trends] has refined my approach. I’ll explore the resources you mentioned.
Best, [Your Name]
Free Bonus: The “Follow-Up Hack” That Gets 2x More Responses
Instead of generic thank-you emails that often get ignored, try this value-driven hack to boost replies. Personalized follow-ups providing immediate value can double your response rates, according to networking experts who saw jumps from low averages to 75%. LinkedIn data shows that messages offering insights have up to 85% reply rates, 3x higher than traditional emails.
Subject Line: “One Idea About [Pain Point Discussed]”
Body Template:
“Hi [Name], Thanks again for discussing [specific topic]. It made me think – have you considered [brief idea]? At [Company/From my experience], we saw [result, e.g., 30% efficiency boost] from similar approaches. Excited to potentially help with [their goal]! Best, [You]”
Why it works:
- Shows immediate value by sharing a relevant idea.
- Keeps the conversation going with reciprocity.
- Up to 2x more likely to get a reply, based on optimized networking strategies.
This hack aligns with 2025 trends where providing value in follow-ups increases engagement by over 320% in some email campaigns, making it a game-changer for U.S. job seekers.
10 Short and Sweet Follow-Up Email After Interview Sample (Free)
Expanded FAQs
Q1. What are the top 5 informational interview questions?
Career path, daily role, skills, industry trends, best advice.
Q2. How long should an informational interview last?
20-30 minutes.
Q3. Should I bring a résumé?
Not unless asked.
Q4. Can informational interviews lead to jobs?
Indirectly, yes.
Q5. How do I ask politely?
Personalized LinkedIn/email message.
Q6. How do I prepare virtually?
Research, tech check, quiet space.
Q7. How do I end politely?
Thank them + recap key takeaway.
Q8. How many should I do?
5-10 when exploring a career.
Q9. What if they don’t reply?
Follow up once, then move on.
Q10. Are they effective for remote jobs?
Yes, especially with hybrid growth.
Q11. How do introverts succeed?
Prepare written questions, keep it conversational.
Q12. What if they offer job leads?
Graciously accept, but reiterate learning focus.
Final Takeaways
Informational interview questions are your secret weapon for U.S. career navigation in 2025. By mastering how to prepare for an informational interview, adhering to informational interview do’s and don’ts, and integrating AI, you’ll build robust job search networking and answer vital career development questions. These strategies, backed by expert sources, position you to thrive amid AI and remote trends.
Remember, every conversation is a step toward clarity and opportunity. Start outreach today your future self will thank you.