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13 Questions to Ask an Insider when Changing Careers

Author: Lavie Margolin, Career Coach

When considering transitioning to a new field of work, be sure to get an insider's perspective as part of your research. Company literature and job descriptions will give some perspective into the job but to gain a real understanding, speak to a few people that have actually done the job. The better you know the person, the more likely that they will be candid with you and not just toe the company line.

You will hear about the good and the bad. Sometimes the insider information may dissuade you from pursuing that opportunity, other times it will reinforce your interest. It will always make you think. It is a good idea to know what awaits you at the end of the road before you get on the path. Prepare beforehand the questions you would like to ask:

- What do you enjoy most about your job?
- What do you enjoy least?
- If you could change anything about the job, what would it be?
- What do you wish you knew before you entered the field?
- What is a typical day like for you?
- What type of person has been most successful in your line of work?
- What type of person has not been very successful in your job?
- What is the management style like?
- How does one advance themselves in your field?
- What is a typical salary range for the field?
- How do most people find work in this field?
- Do you plan to retire here? Why/Why not?
- What are a few of the most important things I should know before entering this field?

Make sure to speak to several people who have worked in your areas of interest as opinions and circumstances will certainly vary from person to person. You don’t want to make career decisions based on the opinions or perspectives of just one or two people.

About the Author: Lavie Margolin is a New York-based Career Coach and the author of Lion Cub Job Search: Practical Job Search Assistance for Practical Job Seekers. To learn more, go to Lavie’s website, Lion Cub Job Search: www.Lioncubjobsearch.com 

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