Plan a useful career conversation

Choose who to approach, prepare your questions and record what you learn.

You don't have to work everything out on your own.

A conversation with someone whose work interests you can help you find out what a role is really like, explore a different way of working or discover possibilities you hadn't considered.

This is one way of building your network. You don't need to attend an event or have your next move worked out. Start with something you're curious about and someone who might help you understand it.

Use the three prompts below to prepare.

How to come back to your plan

  • Bookmark this page now: press Ctrl+D on Windows or Cmd+D on a Mac. On a phone, use your browser's share or menu button and choose Add to Home Screen.
  • Or type the address: jessicaharleycoaching.co.uk/plan-a-useful-career-conversation
  • Use the same device and browser, and your plan will be waiting, ready to add your notes.

Your plan is stored in this browser only and isn't sent to me. Clearing your browser data removes it, so download a copy of your planner as a backup.

On a shared computer, use Clear my answers at the bottom of the page when you've finished.

1 of 3
A role, field or way of working. What would you like to understand?
2 of 3

Who could I talk to?

Someone you know, someone who could introduce you, or someone you could approach. If no name comes to mind, describe the kind of person, or who might introduce you. One person is a good start; add others if they come to mind.

3 of 3
Questions you could ask anyone. Tap an idea to add it, or write your own. You can add questions for a particular person in their card above.

After each conversation

    You may be able to help them in future, but you don't owe a favour in return. Approaching someone can still feel awkward, even when you know why you're asking. That's normal, and a short, clear message helps.

    After each conversation, come back to this page and add your notes in that person's card. Then download a fresh copy of your planner.

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