Professional Network: Mentors

Questions Mentees May Ask:

See our list of informational interview questions. These are the type of questions your mentee may ask, that you should be prepared to answer.

Handling Difficult Questions:
You may find that your mentee is asking questions that are difficult to address. A misguided question from your mentee can be dealt with effectively if you are prepared.
Try to respond to difficult questions in a manner that will encourage the mentee to seek advice from the appropriate professional, such as a Career Specialist in the Career Services Center (CSC).

Review the additional resources provided in this guide or check out the rest of our website for a plethora of career information and resources.

Sample Questions Mentees May Ask:

What major should I declare?
You may want to discuss the pros and cons of various related majors. However,
if a student is wavering among numerous unrelated majors, refer him/her to a career specialist in the Career Services Center. The “What Can I Do With My Major” sheets, Career Path website, Focus 2 self-assessment or Vault Career Insider should also help your mentee with the exploration of his/her interests.

How long does a job search take?
In a good job market, it could take up to one month of job search for each $10,000 one wants to earn. Be realistic about the job search process and suggest some tips that might make it easier for your mentee to market his/her strengths and skills in various industries. Also, refer your mentee to the Jobs page on our website.

Can you get me a job/internship?
If you are not in a position to make job/internship offers, discuss the purpose
of networking as a tool to making reciprocal connections in order to receive useful
information (e.g., additional contacts) or interviews. Students should be directed to use UMBCworks to search for jobs and internships, or meet with a career specialist for assistance with mapping out an individualized job search strategy.

However, if you are in a position and interested in helping the mentee find leads, that would be welcomed.

Which jobs will make me more money?
Consider discussing with your mentee the fact that making more money won’t necessarily bring career success or satisfaction. Try to discuss the concept of the “right fit,” where their strengths are matched to their job responsibilities.

Feel free to discuss salary implications of career choices, but be cautious about the impression you give your mentee on the role that money plays in career selection. Also discuss realistic salary expectations, career ladders within an organization and professional development opportunities.

Should I drop out of school?
If you are comfortable, discuss the pros and cons of not completing a degree. If
you are not comfortable with this conversation, please refer the student to a Career Specialist in the Career Services Center. Also, if you would like to discuss this further, please contact the Career Services Center.

I have two interviews scheduled. Is Company X better to work for than Company Y?
Be cautious with absolute questions such as this. Many students have not
developed the ability to integrate the “gray” areas when it comes to the world of work. Students at this stage in their career development may seek absolutes as a way to simplify the complex task of career decision making. Oversimplifying anything can be a grave disservice to your mentee when it comes to evaluating job offers or employers. Questions related to campus recruiting or specific employers should be directed to the Employer Relations Team in the Career Services Center. You could also direct your mentee to some of the resources on our website, e.g., the section on evaluating job offers in our Career Development Guide.

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