Networking Conversations with Sources

Sources are people who have information about a particular company or organization that is of interest to you. Here are several questions to ask sources after you've shared your 30 second elevator pitch.

• What are the key challenges and opportunities facing the organization?
• What are the factors that drive profitable growth (if you're asking about a for-profit business)/help the agency accomplish its mission (if you're discussing a public sector or nonprofit organization)?
• What are the traits and skills that enable an employee to contribute to the success of your department or business?
• What training do new employees receive? What other learning opportunities do employees have?
• What opportunities for advancement or promotions exist here?
• What do employees have to do to advance positions within the company/agency?
• What kind of equipment or technology do employees use on the job?
• How would you describe the work environment?
• What does a typical work day look like? What is a typical work schedule? Do employees work different shifts?
• What is the range of wages or salaries that employees earn in ______ (describe the positions you are interested in)?
• How likely is it that the company will be hiring in the near future for the positions we’ve been discussing?
• What's the typical hiring process?
• Who is involved in the hiring decision?
• What's the best way for me to connect with him/her? 
• Would you be willing to introduce me to him/her?
• Is there any other information about the company that I should know?
• Can you think of anyone else I should be speaking to about employment opportunities at the company?
• When I contact him/her, may I use your name?