How Do I Prep for an “Informational Interview?”

Q: What is an informational interview?

A: Basically, an informal meeting. Usually to seek career advice or learn more about what a company does. It’s not a job interview. Although, it just might lead to a job (more on that below).

Informational interviews are a GREAT way to meet companies. It’s incredibly valuable to meet your future employer before the job opening is posted on the internet (for millions of people to see/compete). And, if nothing else, you’re building your network.

And now… the prep.

(1) START WITH RESEARCH

Put together a list of people you’d like to meet (either because you’d want their job or want to learn more about their company/industry).

(2) SEND SOME EMAILS

Here’s a sample:

Subject line: Connecting

Hi X,

I received your contact information from X (or, I learned about your work while researching X). I am doing X (something about your background). If possible, I’d love to meet you and hear about you and your work. If a phone call is easier for your schedule, I would be grateful for that as well. What do you think?

(3) WRITE A BUNCH OF QUESTIONS

This really is a golden opportunity to get a bunch of insight into a potential career. You might not get a job out of this, but hey, you might land a mentor or even a friend. Here’s some questions to get you started:

What do you wish you’d known about your field back when you first started in it?
How do you describe the work that you do?
What do you see yourself doing next?
What are misperceptions or misunderstandings others have about your field?
What types of people succeed in this field? And, which types don’t?
In considering this field, I’m worried about X. Do you think this concern has any merit?
How can I stay current in this field? Books or groups or blogs?
Who are the best employers in this field? Any I should stay away from?
Do you have a sense of starting salaries in this field?
Who are your heroes/mentors?
What are hours like?
Anything you see job candidates doing/saying that is a turn off?
Can I tell you about my background and experience so far? I’m curious if you think my background is strong considering the kinds of roles I’m going after right now.

(4) DO NOT, I REPEAT…

DO NOT ask for a job or a job interview. It’s not appropriate to bring this up during an informational interview. Use your best judgment here.

(5) If it’s a meeting over coffee, pay for the coffee (have your credit card ready). Bring your resume with you, but don’t offer it up unless asked.

(6) Follow up with a quick thank you email. Attach your resume for their reference, invite them to reach out to you if you can be of any help to them.

Happy job hunting!