Sample Questions to Ask at the Networking Meeting

1. How did you break into this field? 2. What skills and experience are important in this field? 3. Where do you see a person with my skills and experience fit in this industry? 4. What are the opportunities within the industry for someone with my background in ___? 5. What are the career opportunities with this type of background? 6. What problems or needs exist within the industry? 7. What is a typical career path? 8. What are the requirements to fulfill these types of career opportunities? (i.e. education, training, experience etc.?) 9. What are the most necessary skills for this job? 10. What are the largest obstacles I would face in this field? 11. Who are the leaders in this field? 12. What trends do you see? 13. What are the threats to the industry? 14. How is your company positioned within the industry? 15. What types of positions exist within the organization that utilize the type of background I have? 16. What problems do these positions solve for your organization? 17. What would be your advice for someone considering this field? 18. How should I prepare for a job interview in this field? 19. Are there professional associations or publications that you feel are beneficial for someone considering this type of career choice? 20. Do you see any other fields; industries or companies that I havent identified that would be a fit for my background? 21. Can you refer me to other individuals who might be able to talk to me about career opportunities in this field?