Information interviews are very important as they provide pertinent information regarding future employment with a company. This sample interview exhibits questions that individuals can use to appropriately ascertain their qualifications relative to industry specifications. Furthermore, it provide a brief overview of what an individual can expect after conducting an informational interview.
¶ … Interview
The person's name, position and organization
Position: Vice President of Store Management (VPSM)
Organization: Macys
Why you chose this person to interview
This individual exhibits all the qualities I find admirable as a leader. Irrespective of the field or industry, leadership's skills are necessary to advance. In today's global environment, where competition abounds, leaders must be effective in driving results. David, as I have seen from both his words and subsequent actions, drives results within the retail environment. This environment is characterized with changing consumer sentiments, macroeconomic conditions, and overall business dynamics. David has proven in his extensive career, to overcome many of these pitfalls, while continually improving business results. As such, he is an ideal candidate to interview. For one, he possesses skills which are in high demand and sought after. Secondly, many of the skills and abilities he possesses are transferrable. In the event that I change careers or industries, the knowledge and contacts gained from this interview will prove invaluable in regards to my overall development within an organization. Finally, David has an extensive network that may prove useful in identifying areas of opportunities in regards to future employment. By establishing a quality relationship with David, and learning his methods of business, I can better qualify for future positions.
Your interview questions
Questions pertaining to the future economics of the business:
How have you adapted your leadership style throughout the years, particularly in the tough years of 2007-2008?
What are some of the future trends you see within the retail industry? How have the Omni channel and My Macys strategies worked in regards to sales performance?
Do you see the JC Penny transition as having an impact on the company's sales growth in the future?
How is the company using technology to improve the customer experience?
Which firms do you think are your toughest competitors, and how do they differ from your company?
Questions regarding future opportunities as it relates to the future of the overall business:
How did you get into this field?
What do you like about your job? Any dislikes?
What's the best way to find out about jobs in this field?
What kind of experience or training is required?
What is the career ladder for this position?
What are current job prospects like?
What are the most important parts of your job
What would you recommend I do at this point to get into this field?
Would you provide feedback as to the appropriateness of my resume for this occupation?
What happened in the interview
The interview was very enlightening in regards to both the industry and potential growth opportunities within it. For one, David is very truthful and motivating in regards to his overall persona. He immediately greeted me with welcoming gestures upon my arrival to his office. He seemed very surprised at the depth of my questions throughout the interview. I realized how important it is to do through research on both the company and the individual in which you are interviewing. This research proved invaluable during the interview as I was able to showcase my knowledge of the industry while also asking difficult follow up questions. The initial questions regarding the industry overall were very important. David was passionate about his position and therefore a discussion on the overall business was warranted. This aspect of the interview also created an opportunity to ask more probing questions in regards to job qualifications and references. By providing information about the industry, I was better able to formulate my opinion in regards to my overall skill set and fit within the company. I then was able to smoothly transition my skills and qualifications into feedback regarding my resume.
The names of at least two people you were referred to Tonya Doubles- Regional HR manager
Pat Daring- Learning and Development manager
The person's reaction to your resume?
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