How to Have a Successful Informational Interview

An informational interview is not a job interview. Instead, it’s a way of collecting information about a specific industry, company, or role so you can determine whether the profession is a fit for you. If you’re looking to make a career change, an informational interview is an opportunity to have a candid conversation with a professional in the field that interests you.

You can find someone to interview through networking events or referrals. Even if no one in your immediate circle works in the career field of your interest, they might know someone who does. You can also search for interviewees via professional databases and social media.

There are a few ways you can prepare in advance to get the most out of an informational interview.

1. 1. Research the industry in advance. Whether you’re already in the field or looking to change career paths, make sure you have a base knowledge about the industry you’ll be discussing in the informational interview. You’ll be able to secure more valuable information if you research all the easily searchable questions in advance.
2. 2. Have a prepared list of questions. A list of specific questions will help keep the conversation on track and ensure you walk away with the information you need. Rank your questions from most to least important so your interviewee can answer the most crucial questions first.
3. 3. Be professional. It may not be a formal job interview with a hiring manager, but you still want to maintain a professional demeanor. If the meeting is in person, wear business attire you feel confident in, and conduct yourself as if interacting with a new coworker. If the meeting is over the phone, take the call in a quiet space free from distractions.
4. 4. Keep it brief. Out of respect for the interviewee’s time, plan for nothing longer than a 30-minute chat.
5. 5. Be honest. Explain what you’re looking for and how much time you could realistically commit to a new job. If you’re curious about what it would take to get your foot in the door, ask about it. Being honest will help you walk away with as much knowledge as possible.

The specific questions you ask will vary depending on your interests, but there are some standard sample questions to keep in mind when brainstorming.

1. 1. What are the job expectations? Ask about the hours involved, what others in the company expect from each other, and how they measure success.
2. 2. What is a typical day like? Ask what someone in the position you’re seeking does on a daily basis. This will give you a more detailed picture of job expectations.
3. 3. Would supplemental education be helpful? Even if you have a degree in the particular field you’re pursuing, a rapidly evolving job market may necessitate supplemental education. Other professions may value hands-on experience.
4. 4. What keywords should your resume contain? Speaking the language of the industry you’re interested in can involve subtle tweaks. Ask your interviewee whether there are better words for your skill sets that you can include in your resume or cover letter.
5. 5. Are there opportunities for advancement? Asking if there’s a chance to move up the ladder will give you an idea of how fixed or flexible the industry or company is.
6. 6. What is the salary range? If you feel comfortable with your interviewee, ask what you could expect to earn as a new job seeker in the field and how that salary might change as you gain experience.
   

No matter what you get out of your informational interview and the impact it has on your career goals, follow up with a thank you note to show your appreciation for their time.

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