Tips on infomational Interviews

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What is an informational interview? It is a great way to connect with someone from a job or industry that intrigues you!

Why connect with someone for an informational interview? It's a chance to build community ties, understand a company's environment, and see if it aligns with your values and interests. It's a way to learn, build a network, and discover possibilities. Through meaningful conversations with people who work in the industry, you are able to gain insights and envision places where you could thrive and contribute.

Here are some tips to help you navigate these conversations.

1. Laying the Groundwork

  • Research Thoroughly: Initiate your informational interview process by investigating the company and the professional background of your potential interviewee. Utilize resources like LinkedIn and company websites to gather relevant information.
  • Prepare Insightful Questions: Develop a list of questions that invite detailed explanations and personal insights, ranging from career progression to the daily realities of the job.

2. Recognizing the Benefits

  • Gain Real-Life Perspectives: Directly understand the roles, challenges, and rewards of a career from industry insiders.
  • Expand Your Professional Network: Forge valuable connections with professionals who can offer guidance and potentially alert you to future opportunities.
  • Stay Informed on Industry Trends: Update yourself on the latest developments, terminology, and key figures within your field of interest.

3. Identifying Potential Interviewees

  • Utilize Existing Networks: Tap into your circle of acquaintances, including family, friends, professors, and career services, to find individuals open to sharing their career experiences.
  • Explore Digital Resources: Online platforms such as LinkedIn, alumni networks, and professional associations are excellent for locating individuals for informational interviews.

4. Initiating Contact

  • Communicate Your Intentions: When reaching out, concisely convey your interest in learning about their career path and the industry, underscoring why you believe they would be an ideal source of information.
  • Acknowledge Their Time: Propose a flexible schedule for the discussion, showing respect for their commitments.

5. Conducting the Interview

  • Engage Actively and Curiously: Show genuine interest through active listening and adapt your questions as the conversation unfolds. Tell them about your interest. Possible questions to ask them:
    • How did you get into this field?
    • What is your educational background?
    • What was the career path you took to your current position?
    • Skills/qualities does one need for that kind of work?
    • What does a typical day look like?
    • What do you love about the work? What aspects do you find challenging?
  • Be Mindful of Time: Adhere to the pre-agreed duration to ensure the discussion remains focused and respectful.

Following Up: Showing Appreciation

  • Express Thanks: A thoughtful thank-you note demonstrates gratitude and helps keep the lines of communication open for future interactions

You got this!