Request One Informational Interview
Informational interviews are a low-pressure way to re-engage with your professional world, gather intelligence about what has changed in your field since you were away, and build relationships that may lead to opportunities. For returning professionals they also serve an important confidence-building function.
Informational interviews are a low-pressure way to re-engage with your professional world, gather intelligence about what has changed in your field since you were away, and build relationships that may lead to opportunities. For returning professionals they also serve an important confidence-building function.
Step by Step
Identify one person worth having an informational interview with Look for someone currently working in your target role or field who you either know from before your break or who you have identified through your research and outreach this week.
Send a request message Template: "Hi [Name], I am in the process of returning to my career in [field] after some time away and your experience at [Company] really stood out to me. I would love to connect and hear about your perspective on the current landscape in [field]. Things have changed quite a bit since I was last active and I would genuinely value any insight you would be willing to share. Would you be open to a 20 minute virtual chat? I am completely flexible on timing."
Prepare questions specific to returning professionals
What has changed most in this field over the past few years?
What skills or tools are most important for someone in [target role] right now that may not have been as prominent a few years ago?
Are there companies in this space that are particularly known for valuing experienced professionals returning to the workforce?
What would you recommend someone focus on when updating their skills after time away?
Is there anyone else you would suggest I speak with?
Log the request and follow up once after 10 days if no response
Tips for success
Informational interviews are also a great way to update your knowledge of what has changed in your field since you were away. Go in genuinely curious.
Always send a thank you within 24 hours. Reference something specific they said.