The best approach is to start with genuine curiosity rather than a rehearsed script. People enjoy talking about their work when they feel you're truly interested in their experience, not just gathering information for yourself. Begin by acknowledging their expertise with a simple, open-ended question like, "I’ve always been curious about what a typical day looks like in your field—could you walk me through it?" This invites them to share a narrative rather than a job description.
I always suggest framing your questions around three core areas: their personal journey, the daily reality, and the industry trends they observe. For example, you might ask, "What initially drew you to this career path?" followed by, "What's the most unexpected challenge you face in your role?" and finally, "Where do you see the biggest changes happening in your industry over the next few years?" This structure keeps the conversation flowing naturally and shows you've thought about it.
Timing and context matter enormously. If you're at a networking event, keep it brief and focused on their current role. If you're in a scheduled informational interview, you can dive deeper. Always respect their time by saying, "I know you're busy, so I really appreciate you sharing your insights." Avoid asking for salary specifics or anything that feels like a performance review—those can come across as intrusive. Instead, focus on skills, culture, and growth opportunities.
Here's a quick reference table of effective versus ineffective questions:
| Effective Questions | Ineffective Questions |
|---|
| "What problem does your role solve for the team?" | "So, what do you do?" |
| "What skill has been most valuable to you?" | "Do you make good money?" |
| "How has your role evolved since you started?" | "How do I get your job?" |
The key is to listen more than you speak. People will give you far richer information when they feel heard. If they mention a project or a challenge, follow up with a specific question like, "That sounds fascinating—how did you approach that?" This turns a simple Q&A into a meaningful conversation, which is the ultimate goal of asking about someone's job.
