The purpose of an information session is for employers to inform you about their company. While employers will do a lot of the talking, they want to hear what questions you have about their company. By attending information sessions, with a wide variety of questions prepared, you are showing your interest in their company. To help you feel prepared, review the six question categories listed below that you should touch on at the next virtual information session you attend.
About the Job
Most employers will expect most of your questions to come from this section. It is natural to be curious about what the internship/job would look like. This is a great opportunity to really dig into the details of what you could expect. While the information sessions may not be about specific job openings, they can help you understand what a typical day would look like for any of their employees.
Sample Questions:
- What does a typical day look like?
- What kind of projects do interns and entry-level positions get involved in?
- What are the biggest challenges you face on a day-to-day basis?
- Does your job allow you to live the lifestyle you want?
Company Culture
A company’s culture is something you should highly take into consideration before taking a job. You are much more likely to enjoy your work when your work values and needs are met. The best people to ask about a company’s culture are their current employees. Do not miss this opportunity!
Sample Questions:
- What are the company’s values?
- What is management like?
- Are the senior members easily approachable?
- What are lunch breaks like? Are people hanging around the office or leaving?
Remote/Hybrid Expectations
Recently, we have seen a rise in the number of remote/hybrid internships and jobs. If the positions they are offering are remote or hybrid, make sure you have a clear understanding of the expectations they would have of an employee. If they are not currently remote or hybrid, ask if they foresee that happening in the upcoming years.
Sample Questions:
- Is there an expectation for when interns/entry level employees complete their hours?
- Do interns/entry level employees complete individualized work or work with a team?
- Is there a return to office plan in place? Is there a remote/hybrid option being taken into consideration?
- How much of the workday involves being on calls?
Why this industry?
When looking for jobs, it can be hard to determine which industry is right for you. Asking employers about what they like and value in their industry can open your eyes to things you may not have considered before. You want to get involved in an industry that is interesting to you. If you like the industry, you will be more likely to stick around and enjoy the work you are doing.
Sample Questions:
- What are the benefits of working in this industry as opposed to a different industry?
- Is the field growing?
- How frequently are people entering/leaving the industry?
- Who are the most important people in this industry?
Skills
Asking employers questions about the necessary skills needed for their company should help you get a better idea if you are a good fit for the job. It is important to be able to identify what skills you have that can help the company and ensure you can complete the job well.
Sample Questions:
- What skills are necessary to work for this company?
- What is your educational preference?
- Are there any additional courses I should be looking into that will help prepare me for a role in this industry?
- How often are employees completing work on a computer? What software’s are they using?
Network
Information sessions are a fantastic way to build your network. Employers who offer information sessions want to help you. They created the information session to help you further understand their company and its values. They want to help you succeed whether that be with their company or not. These employers are busy, and it never hurts to ask if you can stay connected with them. They may be able to help you connect with others even if it is not at their company.
Sample Questions:
- Who else do you think would be a good person to talk to about this role/industry?
- Is it okay if I connect with you on LinkedIn?
- Are there other people from your company who I should connect with on LinkedIn?
- Are there any professional networks or organizations I should join?
Asking employers questions at virtual information sessions helps you stand out and look prepared. Employers will notice that and appreciate it. Use these questions at your next virtual information session.
Looking for a job or internship? GradLeaders offers multiple resources for job seekers including co-hosting occasional info sessions with our employer partners.
Looking to host your own virtual recruiting event or info session? Check out GradLeaders virtual event platform.