Networking Questions

Networking Script

Networking interviews involve visits in person with people who are currently working in your field of interest. The purpose of your visit is to gain a better understanding of an occupation or industry and to build a network of contacts that can lead you to the jobs that interest you.

Who should you visit? Anyone in your address book that might lead to career opportunities should be on your list. You should be a collector of business cards, network contacts, and people who can help you go where you want to go.

During your visit, only ask questions that are very important to you. No chit chat. You requested valuable time from a very busy employer and thank them for giving you information needed to conduct your search for career alternatives, and ultimately your next job.

Provide a brief introduction of yourself. Give a concise summary of your work experiences, education, interests, and preferences. Request no more than 20 to 30 minutes. Always carry a small notebook and writing utensil ready to write. Bring a copy of your resume.

For networking interviews, there are hundreds of questions you could ask, but you will not have time to ask more than 8 to 10 questions. Select questions that get at information you want to know. Listen attentively to the answers given by the employer. This is a time for you to listen and not to talk too much! Here are some examples:

• How would you describe a typical day in your job?


• What are your duties and responsibilities?


• How did you learn about career opportunities in this type of work?


• How did you get started in your career area? How did you get your first job?


• What work experiences and education prepared you for your present position?


• Can you suggest ways to obtain experiences necessary to obtain a job like this?


• What career options do you see for someone with my background and experiences?


• Do you feel a passion for your work?


• What sorts of career changes occur for someone in your occupation?


• What are the typical career paths in this occupation?


• What are the best ways to enter this occupation?


• What are the essential skills, abilities, and talents necessary for someone in this occupation?


• With my education, career interests, and work experiences, what do you see as my next career moves?


• What opportunities or career alternatives would you see for a person with my background experience?


• Are there particular job options that I should consider?


• What steps should I take to get my foot in the door for this occupation?


• If you were hiring for this career area, what qualities and experiences would you seek in a new applicant?


• Are there experiences or education that I should get to make me more marketable for this career area?


• If you were in my shoes, how would you market your experiences and background to obtain a position in this career area?


• What companies do you see as leaders in this industry?


• Are there particular people that I should contact to help me achieve my career objectives? May I have your permission to contact these people? May I say that you referred me to them?


• How would you suggest I go about contacting companies to show my interest and gain employment?


• What do you see as the employment outlook in this occupation?


• Has your job affected your family and lifestyle? How?


• What advice would you have for someone like me entering this occupation?


• Are there people you know locally that might be willing to speak with me or meet me regarding career opportunities in this area?


• Would you mind taking a look at my resume? Are there suggested improvements you would recommend on my resume?
  

For more networking interview questions.

DO NOT ask for a job or job openings.  Only ask for DIRECTIONS; how would you suggest I get there?

Following the Visit:
    Thank-you notes and a quick follow-up are very important courtesies. You will be remembered for your professionalism, and your networking contacts will treat you well by returning your calls and helping you make contacts with the next network links. A handwritten note letting your contact know you enjoyed meeting them is priceless.

Questions?
    Do you have more questions to add to this networking script? If so, please send them to: careers@msualum.com  Thank you.