One might think the pursuit of important industry updates and specific details regarding a position or job title might be an arduous task – but in reality, it’s easier than you think. One of the most overlooked ways to access this information, as well as a possible path to future opportunities, is the informational interview. The informational interview process involves contacting local companies or professionals you could see yourself finding a job with and requesting a conversation to sit down and discuss their job, their responsibilities, how they attained their job, or anything else you are interested in learning about their job and finding employment. The goal is to pick their brains for ‘insider’ information that will increase your understanding of the position, as well as cultivate a relationship that could lead to other business networking opportunities. Before you grab the reigns and become the interviewer, here are some tips to keep in mind for a successful interaction!
1. Respect Your Professional Interviewee
The professional you are interviewing is doing you a HUGE favor – so be respectful! A rule of thumb is to treat your discussion like a potential job interview, so show up early and dress appropriately. A suit isn’t necessary, but plan on looking nice (business casual). Thank your insider for the opportunity, follow up with an informational interview thank you note, and make sure you remember his or her name!
2. Relax – It’s Not a Job Interview
While your interview shouldn’t be taken too lightly, remember that there isn’t a potential job on the line. This is your chance to gain insight and ask questions, so don’t worry about asking the wrong thing. A lot of time job interviews are so nerve-racking that it’s hard to be genuine. Take advantage of not having the stress of a call back hanging over your head and be yourself! Informational interviews are great practice for relaxing and letting your personality shine – a great asset to bring to a job interview in the future.
3. Prepare for Your Interview
Don’t be mistaken – this is your interview. The professional has donated his or her time to your cause, so don’t leave the planning to them. Create an outline of how you want the interview to go and what you want to touch on. Bring a notebook and have questions lined up (don’t hesitate to jot down notes throughout). It’s important that there is a two way dialogue so you come across as a participant, not just an observer. This is the perfect opportunity to impress a future employer – so do not take planning lightly!
4. Restraint – Lay the Groundwork for Job Leads Networking
It’s already been said, but needs repeating: DO NOT ask your interviewee for job leads. Doing so can quickly diminish any networking groundwork you have laid and can leave a negative impression from an employer stand point. The benefits gained from your discussions are not always limited to the knowledge attained, but also to the connections you make. Your informational interviewee accepted your request under the pretense that it is NOT about getting a job, so do not display ulterior motives.
5. Build Relationships with Employers
One of your top goals should be to keep your discussions ongoing after your information interview. This is the beginning of a great networking opportunity, so it’s important to not let the relationship dissolve. Ask for their contact info and check in every now and again via email giving updates on your progress or asking for advice. The whole informational interview process can be viewed in 3 steps: your preparation, obtaining insight and knowledge from your meeting, and continuing to develop and expand your relationship into a great resource!
Sources:
http://www.careerbuilder.com/Article/CB-481-Getting-Ahead-How-Does-an-Informational-Interview-Work/
https://career.berkeley.edu/Info/InfoInterview.stm
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-505125_162-47540580/the-informational-interview-7-easy-steps-to-success/
http://shiftingcareers.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/01/29/mastering-the-informational-interview/