An informational interview is just what it sounds like. It is an informal chat with no other agenda than gathering information about a company, a specific job, or a field that you might have interest in.
You can reach out to people you know to learn more about their job or reach out to someone new that works at the company you want to apply to.
Here’s a breakdown of how to go about an informational interview:
1. Ask
Whether it is a friend or a new connection, the question is pretty much the same. If you know them, no introduction is necessary, but if you have just found them on a networking site, be sure to give a context (where you met them, what groups you both belong to, any professional or alumni affiliations).
Next, let them know that you want to speak to them because of:
- Where they work
- What they do
- What they have done.
Finally ask the question; “Do you have 15-20 minutes to speak with me about XYZ?” Keep it brief and polite, especially if it is a request through social media. Getting to the point demonstrates that you value their time.
2. Prepare questions
Have some questions in mind, but be flexible. The person you are talking to might have things to share that would have occurred to you to ask about. Try to leave your questions a little open ended so that they have the freedom to give you a deeper answer than they would if you asked a more specific question. Also, ask the questions that you can’t find from a Google search or from reading the company website. For example,“What is a typical workday for you like?” or “What do you like most about working here?”
3. What about you?
Be prepared to answer questions about your work history and background. Ahead of time, think about how you would give a short overview of your career and what your job search objectives are. If you’ve prepared an elevator speech already, this will come easy to you. You might not have much time to relate this information, but chances are the person you are speaking to will naturally have a few questions for you too. You don’t have to prepare the same as you would for an interview, but some forethought is worth it. Making a good impression could pave the way for a referral or other help.
4. Next steps
It’s not appropriate to ask for a job because this is supposed to be a pressure-free conversation, but it is good to ask for a next step. If you’ve put the work in to get to this point, don’t let the conversation end without asking for a next step.
Good things to ask are who else they think you should meet or speak with, or any recommendations they have to help you with your research (e.g. books, websites, or professional associations). This is also a good thing to ask in general when you are networking. Asking about a next step gives the person a way to help you that is low pressure and helps you keep momentum towards your goal.
5. Thanks
It’s important to thank the person you are speaking with for his or her time. If you have a mailing address, consider sending a thank you note in the mail. It can be a nice touch to show someone your appreciation by spending the few extra minutes it takes to mail a letter. If you’ve never met in person or you’ve only interacted on the phone and social media, send an email to thank him or her for the opportunity.
Bonus Tip:
If you are changing careers informational interviews can be the best way for you to learn about your new field and what you need to do to be successful. It can also give you the insights you need to be able to relate what transferrable skills you have that make you qualified to make this switch or identify the gaps or hurdles you need to overcome in order to start working in the field.