Informational Interviewing
An informational interview is a 20 – 30 minute meeting with an experienced professional focused on gathering information about a career of interest.
Why Conduct an Informational Interview?
- Explore careers of interest and clarify your career goals.
- Discover opportunities available in a given field, including careers you did not know existed.
- Learn the realities of the world of work and what to expect in a given career field.
- Meet people in your career field and begin to build your professional network.
- Develop confidence for internship and job interviews.
- Get the inside scoop on obtaining internships and jobs in the field.
- Observe the work environment and learn what the career is like from someone doing the job.
How to Conduct an Informational Interview
1. Identify the career or industry you would like to explore.
- Assess your interests, values, strengths, and skills, and learn about possible career fields.
2. Determine who you would like to interview.
- Begin with people you already know including friends, relatives, co-workers, supervisors, advisers and faculty. To find additional contacts use the "Employer Directory" in GoldPASS and join the CEHD Alumni and Student Networking Group on LinkedIn Also consider professional organizations, company websites, directories, and yellow pages.
3. Schedule the appointment.
- When you call or write, give your name and affiliation and explain the purpose of the interview.
- Ask for a 20-30 minute interview and be willing to be flexible in scheduling.
- Get directions to their location and leave your contact information.
4. Prepare for the interview
- Research the career field and/or organization before the interview.
- Determine a list of thoughtful questions.
5. Conduct the interview
- Dress appropriately, arrive on-time, and be professional and polite.
- Ask for their business card and keep a record of their contact information.
- Obtain names of new contacts.
Sample Informational Interview Questions
6. Follow-up
- Send a letter thanking them for their time and the information shared.
- Take advantage of referrals and call any contacts they shared.
- Stay in touch with your contact, updating them on your career progress and asking any additional questions you may have.
- Record, reflect, and evaluate the information you received and make any necessary changes.
