Book an Informational Interview
An informational interview is a casual conversation where you ask someone about their career, their company, or their industry. It is not a job interview and you are not asking for a job. The goal is to learn, build a relationship, and expand your network. Many people have been hired through connections made in informational interviews.
An informational interview is a casual conversation where you ask someone about their career, their company, or their industry. It is not a job interview and you are not asking for a job. The goal is to learn, build a relationship, and expand your network. Many people have been hired through connections made in informational interviews.
Step by Step
Identify 3 people to request informational interviews with Look for people who:
Work at one of your target companies
Are in a role similar to the one you want
Have a career path you admire
Are connected to you through mutual contacts
Send a request message Keep it short and make the ask easy to say yes to.
Template: "Hi [Name], I have been following your career and the work you do at [Company] and would love to learn more about your experience there. I am currently exploring new opportunities in [field] and would value any insights you would be willing to share. Would you be open to a 15 to 20 minute virtual coffee chat sometime in the next few weeks? I am happy to work around your schedule."
Prepare 5 questions in advance Good informational interview questions:
What does a typical day look like in your role?
What do you wish you had known before joining [Company]?
What skills or experiences are most valuable in this field right now?
What are the biggest challenges facing [industry] at the moment?
Is there anyone else you would recommend I speak with?
Log the request in your tracker Note who you reached out to and when. Follow up once if you do not hear back within 10 days.
Tips for success
Always end informational interviews by asking if there is anyone else they recommend you speak with. This is how your network compounds.
Send a thank you message within 24 hours of the conversation.
Never ask for a job directly in an informational interview. If they offer to refer you that is great but let it come from them.