Congratulations on making a smart career decision. Speaking with professionals working in roles you’re curious about is one of the best ways to learn about possible career paths and build meaningful connections.

Remember: the professionals you’re meeting volunteered because they want to help. While this can feel intimidating, try to enjoy the experience and approach it with curiosity. Also keep in mind that one role, company, or team does not represent an entire industry; avoid overgeneralizing based on a single interaction.

This is an educational experience, not a job, internship, or formal interview. It is unlikely that your matched professional will know of specific job openings, so do not ask for a job, referral, or internship. However, this experience is an excellent opportunity to ask thoughtful questions and seek advice.

How to Make the Most of Your Informational Interview or Shadowing Experience

1. Research

Preparation is key. Researching the company and the professional you’re meeting will help you ask better questions and show respect for their time.

Start with:

• The company website
• Recent news or strategic initiatives
• Products or services offered
• Company size, ownership (public/private), and history

Review your matched professional’s LinkedIn profile to understand their background and career path. This can help you craft more thoughtful questions.

Do not request to connect on LinkedIn until after the interaction.

Using AI appropriately

• You may use AI tools to:
  • Summarize a company’s website or recent news
  • Help brainstorm questions
  • Clarify unfamiliar terms or technologies
• You should not:
  • Use AI during the interview itself
  • Present AI-generated insights as your own original analysis

AI should help you prepare, not replace your thinking.

2. Prepare Thoughtful Questions

Develop several specific questions in advance. This experience is about learning, but it’s also a chance to demonstrate professionalism, curiosity, and self-awareness.

Be prepared for the professional to ask you questions as well (e.g., your major, interests, or goals). Thoughtful responses leave a strong impression.

Sample Questions

What the Work Is Like

• Is today a typical day for you?
• What skills do you use most often in your role (technical and non-technical)?
• What parts of your job do you find most challenging?
• What do you enjoy most about your work?
• Are there particularly busy or stressful times of year?
• How would you describe the team or company culture?

Industry & Trends

• How has your role or industry changed in the last few years?
• What emerging technologies or trends are shaping this field?
• Where do you see the biggest changes happening in the next 3–5 years?
• What companies or roles do you think are especially influential right now?
• Are there professional organizations, communities, or conferences you find valuable?

Skills, Experience, and Career Path

• How do you stay current as technologies and tools change?
• What skills do you wish new graduates were stronger in?
• How do people typically enter this field?
• What educational or experiential preparation would you recommend?
• I reviewed job postings on your company’s website. Can you explain how skills like teamwork, project management, or specific technologies show up in day-to-day work?
• What advice would you give someone like me who’s exploring this field?

AI-Specific

• How is AI currently used in your role or organization?
• What skills do you think will matter most as AI tools become more common?
• Are there ways students can responsibly build AI literacy without over-relying on tools?

At the end, it’s appropriate to ask:

“Based on what I’ve shared about my interests, is there anyone else you think I should learn from in the future?”

3. Be Professional and Present

• Arrive on time (or log in early)
• Dress appropriately for the setting
• Be engaged; avoid multitasking
• Do not record the conversation unless explicitly permitted
• Do not use AI tools during the conversation

4. Say Thank You

Send a brief thank-you email within 24 hours. This simple gesture reinforces professionalism and helps maintain the connection.

Good luck!

Approach this experience with curiosity, respect, and openness. It’s one of the most valuable low-pressure ways to explore a career path.

TL;DR

This is not a job interview. Do a little homework, ask real questions, be human, don’t ask for a job, don’t use AI during the conversation, and definitely send a thank-you email. Curiosity > perfection.