How can you be sure the career path you are about to choose is right for you? Conduct an informational interview.

"Informational interviews are perhaps the best way for people to determine if a certain field or a career change is right for them.

An informational interview is requested of the employer, by the job seeker. These interviews allow the job seeker to determine if he or she will enjoy and excel at the job in question, and whether the salary is worth it. This puts the shoe on the other foot. Instead of the candidate answering questions about work ethic and experience, it's the candidate who is able to ask questions.

Many professionals welcome the opportunity to talk to people who are considering entering their particular field. One reason is that an informational interview lacks the pressure and formality of a traditional job interview.

However, this does not mean you should show up wearing blue jeans and a torn T-shirt. It's still important to sell yourself. The interviewer is looking for certain traits to compare you with the typical person who has been successful in that field. Sometimes the informational interview does end up landing the candidate a job.

Setting up an informational interview shouldn't be that difficult. Be honest with the person you are calling. Tell them you are considering a job in their field and would like to sit down with them for a few minutes to discuss whether this would be an appropriate career choice for you.

Offering to pay for lunch is an easy way to fit yourself into someone's work schedule."

 -- Bill Murray, Informational Interviews - Career counseling and, perhaps, a foot in the door; http://www.careerbuilder.com.