Brainstorming for my Interview

For my informational interview, I will be interviewing Chad A. Marlow, President and Founder of The Public Advocacy Group, LLC in New York, New York. What I hope to gain from this interview is a better understanding of the public advocacy industry and the lobbying occupation within this field-- and to build a network of contacts in the field all the while building an impressive foundation for my semester project. I’m sure you’re all wondering by now, what exactly is my semester project. While I don’t have an answer to this question at the moment I will hopefully have one Monday (9.10.07) following my interview with Mr. Marlow. It is at this time that he and I will discuss a way to incorporate a possible project for this course with something that he can utilize within his organization. With any luck, we’ll come up with something advantageous to both him and me.

On a side note, I’ve provided my interview questions below. The questions are grouped according to the type of information each question is seeking. Any feedback and/or suggestions are greatly appreciated!

Company Info

1. How would you summarize what your organization does? How does it differ from your competitors?
2. What does your company look for when recruiting people?
3. Does your company have an intern or co-op program? What kind?
4. Does your interns/co-ops have an opportunity for employment upon completion of the program?
5. What are the different positions available within your company?
6. How has the company evolved and what are its strategies for future growth?
7. How would you characterize the culture of this organization? For example, is this a high-pressure organization?
8. Is there a company dress code? If so, what does the dress code entail?

About the field of Public Advocacy

1. What background is necessary or helpful for a career in public advocacy? For example, would you recommend or require that your current and prospective employees possess either a legal degree, a masters in public policy, or both?
2. What are the best ways to enter this field?
3. What are the three most vital skills or qualities for a person going into this profession to have?
4. What are some of the present trends or changes in this field? What about challenges and/or controversies?
5. What are your overall responsibilities as President? What do you do in a typical day at work?
6. What is the employment outlook for public advocacy, nationally and locally? Is demand increasing or decreasing?
7. What is a representative salary range for an entry position?
8. Does this type of career typically involve a lot of team effort, or do you primarily work independently?

Personal Info

1. How did you become interested in public advocacy?
2. What are the most and least gratifying aspects of your work? What would you modify?
3. What experiences in your background have played a role in your success in your career?
4. What, if anything, would you have done differently?
5. When do I start working?