Informational interviews
Informational interviews are one of the lowest-stress, highest-impact networking activities. An informational interview is an interview where YOU invite a professional who works in the field or company you're trying to break into to have a casual conversation about their knowledge and experiences.
You can use connection requests on LinkedIn or other platforms as an opportunity to message industry professionals:
"I'd love to learn more about your professional journey! Would you be open to an informational interview?"
Here's a checklist to help you conduct an informational interview:
Identify people to meet with and request to schedule 20-30 minutes with them
When possible, use your warm contacts to get an introduction to new people or cold contacts you identify you'd like to speak with! As you search for individuals to speak with, keep in mind you're looking for anyone who works in your goal job, has a similar career path and history, or at a company of interest. You can find email outreach templates here, and LinkedIn templates here to help you get messages out.
Got a reply? Now, coordinate the logistics.
As the individual who initiated the request for a meeting, you're responsible for setting up the logistics. Once someone agrees to do an informational "chat" or "interview", recommend some time blocks and days for you to meet. Clarify if phone or video would be easier and exchange the necessary information. In this same message, consider requesting their email (if you don't already have it) so that you can offer to send a calendar invite for the agreed upon day and time you'll be meeting. In this calendar invite, don't forget to include a Zoom link if you're meeting over video.
Prepare questions ahead of time
While you want to let the conversation flow naturally, you also want to be prepared with some questions to kick things off. As the interviewer who requested the meeting, you want to be prepared to lead the conversation. This is your opportunity to learn about your industry, so take advantage. Here's an article with example questions.
Do not ask for a job
Informational interviews are your chance to learn, so they are not the right time to ask for a job. At any point in the process of setting up and conducting an informational interview, do not ask for a job. First, you need to foster the relationship so the two of you can get to know one another, and later on the person may be willing to be a reference.
Ask for connection recommendations
Don’t leave an informational interview without asking, “Is there anyone whom you’d recommend I speak with to learn more about X field?” or “What next steps would you recommend for someone interested in X field?” This is a way to grow your network without having to constantly do cold outreach.
Send a thank you email post interview
Show your appreciation for their time with a genuine thank you message. Let them know what you learned! This will help you keep the connection growing. Templates here.
Stay in touch
Don’t let the person forget about you; keep them posted on your progress and career journey.
