Questions to Ask During a Career Advising Appointment

A successful career advising session starts with preparation. Use the following questions to reflect on your goals, skills, and aspirations so you can make the most of your appointment. Use this list of questions to make your career advising session more productive and ensure you cover the topics that matter most to you. These questions are just to give you ideas – please bring whatever questions you have!

Career Exploration

  1. What career paths align with my skills and interests?
  2. Can you help me understand what people in [specific career/industry] actually do?
  3. What are some emerging careers or industries I should consider?
  4. How can I learn more about potential careers through internships, volunteering, or shadowing?

Job Search Strategies

  1. How do I effectively start my job search?
  2. What are the best resources for finding jobs in my field of interest?
  3. Can you help me tailor my resume and cover letter for a specific job?
  4. How should I approach networking, and where can I start?
  5. What’s the best way to follow up after submitting an application or attending an interview?

Resume and Interview Preparation

  1. How can I improve my resume or cover letter?
  2. What do employers look for in a strong cover letter?
  3. How can I highlight transferable skills if I lack direct experience in a field?
  4. What are some common interview questions I should prepare for?
  5. Can we do a mock interview to practice my responses?

Education and Skill Development

  1. What skills are most valuable for my desired career path?
  2. Are there certifications or training programs that would make me more competitive?
  3. How can I make the most of my current courses or extracurricular activities?
  4. Are there workshops or events I should attend to build skills or make connections?

Networking and Professional Relationships

  1. How do I create a strong LinkedIn profile?
  2. Who should I connect with on LinkedIn or other platforms?
  3. Can you suggest strategies for building relationships with alumni or professionals in my field?
  4. What’s the best way to ask for an informational interview?

Long-Term Planning

  1. What can I do now to set myself up for success after graduation?
  2. Should I consider graduate school, and how would it impact my career?
  3. How do I set realistic goals for my career over the next 5-10 years?
  4. What steps should I take if I want to work abroad or relocate for work?

Personalized Advice

  1. What do you think are my biggest strengths as a candidate?
  2. How can I address gaps in my experience or education?
  3. Are there specific job boards or organizations that cater to my interests?
  4. How can I stay motivated during a long job search?

Workplace Insights

  1. What trends are shaping the workforce in my field?
  2. What are common challenges new graduates face, and how can I prepare?
  3. How do I evaluate whether a company’s culture is a good fit for me?
  4. Can you explain the basics of negotiating a job offer or benefits package?

General Support

  1. What resources does the career center offer for students and alumni?
  2. Are there career fairs or networking events I should attend?
  3. How can I balance my current commitments with career preparation?
  4. What books, podcasts, or websites do you recommend for career development?

Follow-Up Questions

  1. Can we create a step-by-step action plan for my career goals?
  2. How can I check in with you or the career center for ongoing support?
  3. Are there additional people or departments on campus that can help me?

These questions will help you gain clarity, make informed decisions, and take actionable steps toward your career aspirations.