5 Steps to a Successful Informational Interview

Did you know some experts estimate that at least 80% of all jobs are filled through networking? One of the most effective – but often daunting – networking tactics is the informational interview. However, the purpose of an informational interview is to learn more about a particular career, workplace, or industry… not necessarily to get a job (right away, at least).

Whether you’re a student about to graduate college or an experienced employee curious about a career change, the informational interview can provide valuable, first-hand insight to support your decisions and lay the foundation for your career path. Here are five steps to landing (and perfecting) an informational interview, with tips along the way.

1. Seek a Subject & Location

You’ll first want to identify a potential interviewee in a field or at a company of interest. Ask your friends and family for candidates and/or reach out to alums or professional organizations. If you are a student, visit your school’s career center or guidance counselor’s office. Don’t forget to check social networking sites like Facebook and LinkedIn.

Once you identify a potential subject, do a bit of research before reaching out. How long has the interviewee’s company been in business? What is their professional and educational background? What are some of the hottest trends in their industry? Seeking answers to these questions will not only help determine if your subject is the right person for the job, but also prepare you to conduct the informational interview with utmost proficiency and credibility.

As far as where to hold your informational interview, consider a comfortable and quiet coffee shop or restaurant that’s convenient for your contact. You may even be invited to interview your subject at their office and get an inside look at their workplace – this is ideal if you’re interested in working for the same company someday. Or, you could hold your informational interview virtually, which significantly expands your options for interviewees.  

2. Request the Interview

Convincing someone to take time out of their busy day to speak with you is half the battle, and many people aren’t exactly sure how to ask for an informational interview.

In today’s digital age, it’s easy to send a quick email or message on social media. But, keep your message simple and clear (and proofread it before sending). In an informational interview email or letter, state who you are, why you are reaching out, and what action you want the recipient to take.

Informational Interview Request Email Example

Subject: Informational Interview Request – Interested in Marketing Career Paths

Hi Marie,

I hope your week is going well so far! I found your profile on LinkedIn recently and would love to connect. Your career path working at ACME, Inc. is very impressive and in line with my own aspirations in the marketing industry. I recently graduated from Berkeley with a bachelor’s degree in marketing and am interested in learning more about digital marketing for nationwide retailers. Would you be willing to meet with me for 20–30 minutes so I can ask you some questions about your experience?

I would be grateful for any insights you can share. If you’re available, please let me know when would work best for you.

Thank you,

Jenny

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A similar formula applies for a phone call. Inserting an extra detail or two from your research, such as, “I was impressed to see that you worked your way up from an entry-level position in your company to become a manager,” will add a personal touch and emphasize your genuine interest.

You’ll likely find that most people are happy to share their expertise with you, but if you don’t receive a response or if your subject declines when you ask for an informational interview, move on to another viable contact. Avoid being too pushy or following up excessively; another opportunity will arise. Once you have a potential interviewee, be sure to confirm the date and place of your meeting.

3. Prepare for the Informational Interview

Based on your research of the interviewee’s company, career field, industry, and professional background, create an agenda and a list of informational interview questions. While you should ask some general questions about their field, the interviewee’s position, and opportunities for advancement, make sure to ask some open-ended questions as well.

For example, ask them about their biggest career challenges or to describe their average day. Use informational interview questions to seek advice you can’t readily find anywhere else.

Although the informational interview isn’t about selling yourself and your skills, come prepared with an elevator pitch describing your experience and what you have to offer. You can bring a resume, but only extend this information if the opportunity presents itself. Your interviewee may also ask why you’re interested in their career path or industry, so be ready to talk genuinely (and concisely!) about your professional aspirations.

Lastly, make a good impression by being punctual and planning your wardrobe in advance. The rule of thumb is to dress professionally, just as you would for a job interview. Your attire should convey competency and confidence.

4. Conduct the Conversation

You will have about 20 to 30 minutes to gather as much information and advice as you can from your subject. Sticking to your list of questions can keep you on track and make the most of your time, but don’t worry if you or the interviewee strays from the agenda. Go with the flow of the conversation; one response may lead to a new and important topic.

If you’re having trouble making a connection with your interviewee, break the ice with a question about them – for example, an easy one to answer could be, “What do you like best about working for this company?” Also, maintain a friendly and engaging composure – you are looking to build a relationship, not simply rattle off a list of questions.

At the conclusion of the interview, thank your subject for their time. It is appropriate here to ask if they can provide some additional networking referrals. Is there anyone else in the company (or in the industry) that would warrant an introduction? Again, it’s all about networking.

5. Follow Up

A formal thank you letter or email is a must after your interview (ideally sent one or two days afterward). Show how much you appreciate your subject taking the time to meet with you. Refer to anything in particular that impressed or surprised you about their company or career, and share how you plan to apply what you learned to jump-start your job search.

Expressing an authentic interest in the information provided will go a long way. You may also offer to keep in touch with them (hint: add them as a connection on LinkedIn) as you continue on your career path.

While the informational interview may not instantly propel you into a new job, it equips you with unique, first-hand knowledge and advice as you search for your perfect career. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there, make some connections, and start building your professional network with informational interviews!