Questions You Really Should Ask for Your Network

There are many situations where being a good listener can really pay off. Listening can help build
client relationships and serve you well if you are in a job search or career transition. One tool that can
help you be a better listener is to ask open-ended questions (as if you were taking a friendly
deposition).

1. What year did you graduate?

2. What do you miss most about <City> (if he/she is an Alumni)?
3. What projects are you working on?
4. What are you looking to do next in your career?
5. Is There Anything You Wish You Had Done Differently in Your Career?
6. Can I Hear More About Your Career Path?
7. What are your job responsibilities?
8. What is a typical day like?
9. What are some of the challenges you face in your position?
10. What do you like about the job?
11. What do you dislike about the job?
12. How did you get the job you have?
13. What skills do you need to be successful in what you do?
14. What opportunities do you have for advancement?
15. Can I ask for your advice on ____?
16. Can You Give Me Feedback on How I Dealt With This?
17. Can You Introduce Me to [Person Your Contact Knows]?
18. Is There Anyone in Your Network You Think I Should Talk To?
19. What resources are available to learn more about your position (websites, organizations,
magazines, books)?
20. Are there any courses/workshops worth taking to learn more?
21. Do You Know Anything About Company XYZ?
22. Any Recommendations for Industry Events and Conferences?
23. What are the opportunities to find other jobs like yours?
24. What is the work environment like at your company?
25. Can We Have an Informational Interview? (Ask at the end of the conversation)
26. Can You Look Over My Resume and Cover Letter?
27. Can You Help Me Go Over These Interview Questions?
28. Do You Have Any Insight on This Problem?
29. Can You Help Me Weigh the Pros and Cons?
30. Is There a Better Way to Go About This?
31. Can You Help Me Brainstorm Some New Ideas?
32. Do You Have Any Advice for Someone at My Level?
33. Where Are Your Favorite Places to Get Work Done?
34. Do You Have Any Good Reading Recommendations?
35. Would You Serve as a Reference for Me?
36. Could You Recommend or Endorse Me on LinkedIn?
37. Can You Help Me Promote This?
38. How Can I Help You? (Not just asking help from them, ask how you can help with them)