Informational Interviews

What is an informational interview?

An informational interview is a meeting with a person currently working in a career in which you have some interest. The purpose of this meeting is for gathering advice and information.

Once you establish contacts, those people may be helpful in conducting a job search. However, please remember that it is clear to employers that those requesting an informational interview are simply seeking advice and information. The purpose of an informational interview is NOT to inquire about job openings within a company.

Why do informational interviews? 

• To help explore career options and decide on a career path.
• To find out how to best prepare for a particular career.
• Identify potential internships.
• To develop a network—REMEMBER it is estimated that up to 80% of those people who have found jobs, did so through a contact.
• To help you prepare for job interviews.
• Have your resume critiqued by a professional.

How do I find someone to interview?

Utilize all of your connections including faculty members, parents, other relatives, church members, friends, neighbors, previous employers, coaches, advisors etc. All of these people are typically interested in helping students make contacts and provide helpful information.

What kinds of questions are appropriate to ask? 

• What credentials, degrees, licenses or certificates are required for entry into this field?
• What kinds of prior experience are essential?
• How were you prepared for this work?
• What is a typical day like?
• What skills/talents are important for this position?
• What are the most difficult problems/issues you face?
• What do you find most rewarding in this job?
• To what professional organizations do you belong? Should I join?
• If you were to start over, what would you do it differently?
• Where do you see yourself going from here?
• Can you recommend sources for more information (journals, people)?
• What kind of experience would employers look for in an applicant?
• How would you recommend that I gain such experience?
• Would you be willing to critique my resume?
• Is there a possibility of interning in this field?

Do not ask if there is a job for you if you originally stated this was an informational interview. 

What to do after the interview: 

• Send a thank you note! This is imperative and may help in the future.
• Follow up on the interviewer’s suggestions.
• Communicate your progress.
• Keep the interviewer active in your network.