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Sample Networking Questions

Networking is a great way to learn more about various career fields and organizations, and can connect you with a range of professionals in your areas of interest. Networking is connecting with people you know as well as new individuals that can help you learn more about particular occupations, industries, employers and other aspects of the world of work. It is an essential tool for exploring your career interests and for finding jobs and internships. Everyone you know is part of your network—family, friends, co-workers, classmates, faculty, advisors, coaches—and each one of them has their own network of contacts as well. Career Planning has compiled a list of questions to help you prepare for networking.

Questions You Might Ask

Need some conversation starters? Here is a list of questions you might ask a professional you are networking with for the first time. Typically, your goal is to get an understanding of what their profession is like, and understand how you can prepare for it. Conversations like these are invaluable to gain first-hand knowledge from someone whose career matches your aspirations. They likely won't forget your interest and excitement when they have a colleague who is looking for someone like you.

  1. What are your specific position responsibilities?
  2. What is a typical day like for you?
  3. Is there much variety and/or creativity in your daily work?
  4. What types of skills, interests and abilities are needed for this type of position?
  5. How would you describe the work environment?
  6. How did you prepare for entry into this field?
  7. What are the opportunities for advancement in this field?
  8. What do you particularly enjoy about your work?
  9. What is the most frustrating aspect of your work?
  10. Do you belong to any professional organizations? Should or can I join now?
  11. Can you recommend resources for more information, i.e. an appropriate journal for this field?
  12. If you were starting out again, what would you do differently?
  13. What kind of experience would be important for me to receive to be competitive? How can I get this type of experience?
  14. How would you advise I go about looking for an entry-level position in this field?
  15. Can you refer me to someone else who might provide me with additional information?
  16. What is the salary range for an entry-level position in the field?
  17. How did you first learn about your job vacancy?
  18. What are your long-range career goals?
  19. What majors are most successful in securing employment in this field?
  20. What type of education is required for career advancement?
  21. Are job prospects good, stable or competitive?
  22. What advice would you give to someone starting in this field?
  23. Where do you see a person like me fitting in this field/organization/industry?
  24. How should I prepare for a job interview in this field?
  25. Who are the recognized leaders in this field?
  26. What is a typical career path for someone coming in at my level?
  27. What are the largest obstacles I would face in this job?
  28. What are the most necessary skills for this job?
  29. Is there formal or on-the-job training?
  30. How can I best utilize the degree I have?
  31. How many people like me have made a successful career change? What kinds of backgrounds did they have?


Questions They Might Ask You

  1. What is your college major? Do you like/enjoy it?
  2. Why did you choose to attend UW-Green Bay?
  3. What about this career field is appealing to you?
  4. What are your strengths and weaknesses?
  5. Have you talked to any other professionals in the field?
  6. Have you had any practical work experience/internship in the field?
  7. Have you worked on completing a resume?
  8. Are you considering other career choices in addition to this field?
  9. Are you considering this career long-term or temporarily before attending graduate school?
  10. How did you determine this field may be something you want to pursue?
  11. Why have you decided to pursue a graduate or professional degree?
  12. Why would you like to work for our organization?

Thank You Note

As a courtesy, it is recommended to send a thank you note or email after your meeting to express appreciation for the professional’s time and information.

Nervous about Networking?

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