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Tips for Informational Interviewing

by Theresa E. Singleton, PhD 

May 12, 2010

Navigating the job market, particularly in a difficult economy, can be a daunting task. Knowing how to conduct an effective 'informational interview' – a short meeting to ask for advice rather than a job –  provides vital information on various career paths, and also serves to establish connections with key individuals in the target industry. At a recent WEST workshop*, career strategist Sarah Cardozo Duncan led a spirited discussion on  best practices for seeking, arranging, and conducting productive informational interviews.     

1. Why conduct an informational interview?

• To get information to make informed career decisions
• To leave a good impression
• To get referrals to meet with other potential employers/mentors
• To build relationships

2. How to Begin

• Know who you are and what your tools are (skills/expertise) so that the people you interview know how to help you and who to refer you to
• Brainstorm potential career paths to define industries/companies that interest you
• Network to identify individuals in your target industries/companies using tools such as LinkedIn, university alumni networks, and professional organizations
• Request an interview
  • Mention who referred you to the individual
  • Explain that you would like advice/information
  • Ask for a short meeting (such as 20 minutes)
    
  • DO NOT ask if they have any job openings!

3. The Interview

• Get on common ground
  • Use an icebreaker to initiate conversation and ease tension
• Introduction
  • Tell your story
  • Give context so that interviewee can know how to help you
• Conversation
  • Ask smart, strategic questions (e.g. What does the career path look like? Is a PhD or other higher degree required?)
  • Do not ask “What is your day like?”
  • You want to appear thoughtful and leave a good impression
• Close
  • Thank them
  • Ask whether they can refer you to anyone else for more information
  • DO NOT give them your resume or CV
  • Send a hand written thank you note as an added touch to stand out

4. Finally...

According to Harvard Business School, 90% of the time jobs are secured through the people you know. The informational interview is a crucial tool for networking and building relationships with individuals in your target career/industry.

*The WEST workshop “Learning the Art of the Informational Interview“ was held on April 28, 2010 in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Click Here for more information.