Whether you’re in college, just graduated or looking to change careers, it’s imperative you learn how to set up and prepare for an informational interview. What is an informational interview and how can it help you toward your goal of finding a job?
AN INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEW IS a conversation to learn about the real-life experience of someone working in a job, industry or company of interest by asking questions about their career path and current position. It can help you determine what you want to do for an internship or job and help you further network. The interview could be done in person, by email, over the phone or by Zoom.
Quick Tips• Don’t be afraid to ask and be clear about your intention• Proofread and edit your messages before sending• When you meet, Dress business professional and have your resume available • Research the person and company prior to the interview on LinkedIn.
Listed below are the steps you need to consider when using an informational interview to determine what you want to do and network:
1) BE INTENTIONAL & CREATE A LIST: Family, friends and alumni are great people to start with; find alumni contacts through LinkedIn. Write down a list of people to interview; think about companies, jobs and industries that interest you.
2) PREPARE FOR THE INTERVIEW: Plan 6-8 open ended and thoughtful questions to ask. These should be things you genuinely want to know! Write down questions to ask during the interview (see next page for sample questions).
3) CONTACT PEOPLE ON YOUR LIST: Introduce yourself, share how you found their information and that you are interested in learning about their career; attach your resume to the message. Ask for a time to meet over the phone, Zoom or in person within the next 2-3 weeks and share your availability. Write a message below to the contacts on your list.
4) CONDUCT THE INTERVIEW: Bring your list of questions and be prepared to lead the interview and take notes, if desired. Respect the person’s time by arriving early and/or calling on time. Gain different perspectives and deepen your network by asking for names of other people to meet.
5) FOLLOW UP & REFLECT: Send a thank-you note within 1-2 days and express your appreciation for the time and information given. Write down what you learned, what you want to know more about and your next steps.
