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.