How to Run Informational Interviews

What are Informational Interviews?

Informational interviews are a valuable tool for career exploration. They offer a chance to have informal conversations with professionals working in areas that interest you.

These interviews, usually lasting 20-30 minutes, are not about finding job openings, but rather about gaining insight into a career field, organization, or industry. By learning from someone who has firsthand experience, you can gather essential information that can guide your career decisions.

Click below to learn about the three key stages of conducting a successful informational interview:

Step 1

Preparation is essential for making the most of an informational interview.

Research Career Fields and Organizations

Use online resources and networking tools like LinkedIn to research the career, industry, and organization you are interested in. Understanding the field will help you ask meaningful questions and make a good impression.

Identify People to Interview

Start with people you know, such as professors, friends, or colleagues, who may have connections in the field you're exploring. Leverage platforms like LinkedIn or alumni networks to reach out to potential interviewees who are willing to share their insights.

Prepare Your Questions

Think of open-ended questions that will allow the interviewee to provide detailed insights. Examples include: "What do you enjoy most about your role?" or "What skills are most critical for success in this field?" Planning these questions ahead ensures a smooth, engaging conversation.

DRAFT OUTLINE FOR OUTREACH

  • State your connection.
  • Define your interest specifically and generally.
  • Put a concrete question. Do your ABC testing.

USE AND ADAPT OUR DRAFT

Dear [their name] ,
My name is [your name]. I saw that you graduated from IE. I'm currently doing my MIM there. I'm exploring roles in the [x sector] and would love to hear about your experience at [company name/team if relevant].

Would you be available for a 20 min conversation?

Thanks for considering, I look forward to hearing from you.

Best regards,
[Your Name]
.

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Step 2

Once you’ve done your research and prepared your questions, it’s time to request and conduct the interview.

Initiating Contact

Reach out via email or LinkedIn, mentioning how you found their name and stating that you're seeking information, not a job. Be clear about your request, and make it easy for the person to agree by suggesting a short meeting.

Conducting the Interview

When the time comes, dress appropriately for the setting and arrive on time. Restate that your goal is to gather information and not to seek a job. Briefly introduce yourself, and then guide the conversation with your prepared questions while allowing the interviewee to take the lead. Be respectful of their time and stick to the agreed-upon timeframe (20-30 minutes). Ask for permission to follow up in the future and inquire if they can recommend other professionals for you to speak with.

Recommended Questions and Possible Insights

QUESTIONS INSIGHTS
How did you get this job? Discover 101 ways to get into this job, gain self confidence, Scout the diversity of avenues which can be used to reach your dream job.
What do you like best in your job? Check if you really like this job, verify that the job really attracts you.
What do you like least in your job? Check if you can stand the difficulties of the job, identify the difficulties and evaluate if you are ready to accept them.
What are the key tasks/issues/priorities/challenges one has to carry out this job? Prepare E (Employment) phase, select "sales pitch", fine tune target, discover and confirm the key tasks/missions/priorities of the job.
What skills/talents/traits/qualifications/degrees does one need to have to carry out these tasks? Inventory skills possessed, value relevant past experiences, discover relative skill, measure the gap (if any) between your profile, (skills) and the profile needed for the job.
Could you give me 3 names of people doing this job who like it? Start networking and enlarge your network, secure informational interviews, avoid cold calls and rejection, get names of people you can approach on a warm call basis.

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Step 3

After the interview, following up is crucial for maintaining the connection and making a lasting impression.

Send a Thank-You Note

Within 1-2 days, send a brief thank-you email or handwritten note expressing your gratitude for their time and insights. This is a simple yet powerful way to show professionalism and appreciation.

Keep Records and Nurture the Relationship

After the interview, jot down key takeaways and brainstorm next steps. Stay in touch periodically, especially if you act on any advice they provided. If the conversation went well, consider this person a valuable part of your growing professional network.

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Helpful Video

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A short video around the difference between informational calls and interviews, helping students to lose the fright towards these kind of interactions during their job search.

Benefits of Informational Networking

Conducting informational interviews can help you:

  • Gain real-world insights about a specific job or career path.
  • Discover new career opportunities that may not have been on your radar.
  • Learn how to prepare for a career in the field of your choice.
  • Build relationships and expand your professional network.
  • Gather insider tips on navigating the job market and getting your foot in the door.

By following the steps outlined in this page, you'll be well-equipped to conduct successful informational interviews that can help shape your career path!

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