Career Connections

I have heard that informational interviews are a great way to get your foot in the door of an industry. What is an informational interview? Do you have any suggestions for finding someone to interview with? — submitted by David '91

An informational interview allows you to ask a professional in the field or industry that you are interested about their career. You are looking for information and advice, not employment.

Where can you find someone to approach for an informational interview?

  1. Ask people you know if they have contacts in the profession that you are interested learning about.
  2. Use LinkedIn to find a connection through someone you know.
  3. Ask current or former professors who they know working in that field.
  4. Contact the local chapter of the professional organization for that industry.
  5. Attend job fairs in your area.
  6. Check out your local one-stop career center.
  7. Contact someone who has written an article or blog about the industry

How should you ask for the informational interview?
You can ask for the interview either via email or phone. Some ideas for what to write or say during your request:

  • ___________ gave me your name as someone who knows the ins and outs of working in the _________ field.
  • I'm doing some research on working in the ____________ industry and I am looking for some candid advice on the pros and cons of working in this field.
  • I have been doing research on the _________ field, but there is only so much one can learn from the internet and books. I'd love to talk with someone who is actually doing _________ to get a real feel for what it is like day to day.
  • I am considering going back to school to become a ___________. I was hoping to speak with someone who could give me a realistic view of what a career in _________ is like.
  • _________ said that you are the best in the _________ business. I am hoping to break into the field and was wondering if you had 15 minutes to speak to me about it.
  • ___________ is a real interest of mine. Your company has an outstanding reputation and I would love to hear your opinion on where you think the field is going.
  • I am really intrigued by the _______ field. Before I make the leap to change careers, I would appreciate speaking with someone like yourself, who is considered an expert in the field.

A few things to keep in mind:

  • Most people like to talk about themselves and will be more than willing to do this!
  • If you were referred by someone, be sure to mention them in the ask.
  • Ask for a set amount of time to talk, 15 minutes is a good starting point.
  • Be polite and professional.

Some questions that are appropriate to ask in an informational interview include:

  • How is the changing economy affecting this industry?
  • What is the most important thing that someone entering this career should know?
  • What do you like most / least about your job?
  • What kind of decisions do you make?
  • Can you describe a typical work day to me?
  • What do you think is the best type of educational preparation for this career?
  • How did you get into this industry / job?
  • Why do you like working for this company?
  • If you had to do it all over again, would you still choose this career?
  • Can you suggest anyone else in this field that I could talk to?

The biggest difference between a job interview and an informational interview is that you are the one asking the questions. For most job seekers, this makes the process a bit less stressful.