- Jessica Daly
- Saturday, June 05, 2021
The Informational Interview...arguably the most underused yet most important part of building your network and ultimately finding a career you love.
Before we talk about the informational interview, you need to understand the importance of networking. Start with this blog: What is Networking and How Do I Do It?
Now you're ready to learn more about the Informational Interview. Let's start with what it isn't. An informational interview is NOT a job interview, which should be a relief because it takes off the pressure. Think of it as a conversation. But don’t get too relaxed; you still need to prepare and be professional. You never know where the conversation could lead.
Let’s take a look at some steps to a successful informational interview from identifying who to interview, to preparing what to ask, to how to follow up after the interview.
Who Should I Interview?
Start by making a list of companies you would love to work for and specific jobs you find interesting. Use your existing network (friends, family and acquaintances) and LinkedIn to try and find people who fit at least one of those parameters. Of course, the magic really comes when you can find someone in your dream position at your dream company. If no one in your current network fits the bill, start looking for shared connections. Is there someone who works at your targeted job who also went to the same university or lives in your hometown? You can reach out over LinkedIn or via email to see if they are willing to chat with you about their career and the path they took to get there.
Suggested Reading: If you need help on how to ask for the interview, read this article from The Muse: How to Ask for an Informational Interview (and Get a “Yes”)
How Should I Prepare?
Research, Research, Research.
Do your research on the company, the industry, and the person you are meeting with. You can use Google and LinkedIn for starters. The more you let your curiosity drive you, the better. It will make for a much more vibrant and engaging conversation. Remember, you are in the driver’s seat and can control the information flow of the interview. Ask what you want to know about the person’s career path, things they wish they had known, what they love about their job, and even what they don't like about it.
For a list of potential questions you might like to ask, check out this article from the Balance Careers: How an Informational Interview Can Boost Your Career
Aside from researching things about the person you are interviewing, don’t forget to prepare your own elevator speech. This is a clear, brief message or “commercial” about you. It lets your audience know who you are, what you’re looking for and how you can add value to a company or organization. Keep it short, usually about 30 seconds, which is the time it takes people to ride from the top to the bottom of a building in an elevator. This is your opportunity to let them know who you are and more about your career goals. While an informational interview should not be used to get a job offer specifically, it can set the stage for that possible outcome. At the very least, you will be adding to your network.
Be professional by arriving on time and dressing like it’s a job interview. You also want to be respectful of their time and only take 15 to 30 minutes unless you both agreed to a longer meeting. If you ask them to meet over coffee or a meal, be sure to pay. The last question to ask is if they can recommend anyone else you might connect with for an interview.
Is There Any Follow Up I Should Do?
Like with a job interview, you will definitely want to follow up with a thank you. This can be an email, although a handwritten note is recommended in this case. Finally, if they ask you to keep them updated on your progress, be sure to do so. People are genuinely interested in your successes, especially if they helped you along the way.
Looking for more information?
Set up a virtual meeting with one of our certified Career Coaches through the Book a Learning Coach form or by calling 803-929-3400. After you submit, we will contact you to set an appointment. Our team provides help with interviewing skills, your résumé, interest/skills assessments, and more. Follow Richland Library on LinkedIn and subscribe to our YouTube channel for career development tips and tidbits.