When you are job searching you are on a fact-finding mission! You must research and become an expert in the field you have targeted as your first career choice. I will give you sample questions that you must ask about your field or industry.
SAMPLE QUESTIONS ABOUT A CAREER CHOICE OR INDUSTRY
- What are the basic prerequisites for opportunities in the field?
- What entry-level jobs qualify one for this field?
- What types of training do companies give to people entering this field?
- What are the average salary ranges for various levels of experience in this field?
- What aspects of a career in this field do you consider particularly beneficial? Particularly bad?
- Do you view this field as a growing one?
- Is there currently a demand for individuals in this field?
- What is the typical profile of a successful person in this field?
- How do you see the opportunities in the field changing over the next ten years?
- What is the best way to obtain a position which will start me on a career in this field?
- What hours do successful people normally work?
- May I review job descriptions for some of the positions in this field?
- What, if any, are the positive as well as negative, issues facing this industry?
- What kinds of technical skills will provide greater opportunities to advance in this industry?
- Who are the respected individuals in this industry?
- What government regulations affect this industry?
- What are the main issues facing your industry?
- Which other industries directly affect what happens in this industry?
- Which kinds of companies are forming strategic alliances in this industry?
- What do you see are the greatest opportunities in this industry within the next 3 to 5 years?
You need to become an expert in the field you have targeted as your first career choice! The more educated you become, the better you will sound during your interviews. Your knowledge will set you apart from your competition and will drastically increase your chances for becoming the candidate they select for their opportunity!
Nancy J. Phillips, CPC
Courtesy of: Good as Gold Training, Inc. (www.jobseekerinfo.com)