How to Explore Careers Through Informational Interviewing
What is an informational interview?
An informational interview is an opportunity to spend time with someone who is a professional in a career field of interest to you. By talking with an "expert", you will be able to acquire information and establish connections for networking purposes. Most professionals are honored to talk with students about their experiences. However, you must prepare in advance in order to respect the professional's time. An informational interview can provide you with possibilities for a future internship, part-time or volunteer experience.
Tips on Conducting an Informational Interview:
- Identify a professional to contact in a career field of interest to you. (Career Center Counselors can help you with this.)
- Do background research before contacting the employer.
- Contact the professional via phone (or in writing if done well in advance) to request an informational interview.
- Prepare for the informational interview. Call to confirm the appointment. Bring several copies of your resume. Arrive 15 minutes early.
- During the interview, shake hands and introduce yourself. Try to keep the interview to 30 minutes or less. Be aware of your nonverbal language. Thank the person and shake hands as you leave.
- After the interview, make notes about what you learned. Within 2 days, send a thank you note to the professional.
Sample Questions to Ask:
- How did you get started in the field?
- What is your educational background?
- What are your major responsibilities?
- What do you like most and least about your job?
- What is a typical day like for you?
- What kind of salary range and benefits could an entry-level professional expect to receive?
- Does this field have a promising outlook for the future?
- What are the major weaknesses of new hires in this field?
- Can you recommend other organizations in this field that I might contact?
- Can you recommend any specific person for me to talk with?