The Ultimate Guide on How to Set Up an Informational Interview
Are you tired of submitting your resume, attending job fairs, and scanning through hundreds of job vacancies online? Do you feel like you’re missing out on finding the right job for you? Informational interviews may be the answer to your job search woes.
So, what is an informational interview? It’s a meeting between you and someone who works in a field or company you’re interested in. The purpose of an informational interview is to gather information about the job or industry, expand your network, and get a sense of what it’s like to work in a specific role or company.
Now that you have a basic understanding of what an informational interview is, let’s dive into the ultimate guide on how to set one up.
Step 1: Identify Your Purpose and Goals
Before setting up an informational interview, it’s essential to define your purpose and goals. Are you exploring a career change or trying to learn more about a specific industry? It’s also crucial to clarify your goals, whether it’s to learn about the company’s culture, hiring process, or day-to-day responsibilities of a specific role.
Step 2: Research and Identify Potential Contacts
Once you’ve identified your purpose and goals, it’s time to research and identify potential contacts. LinkedIn is an excellent resource for finding people who work in a particular industry or company. You can also ask your network if they know anyone who works in the field.
When reaching out to contacts, it’s essential to be professional and respectful of their time. Keep your email brief, introduce yourself and your purpose, and request a time to meet with them.
Step 3: Prepare for the Interview
Preparation is key to a successful informational interview. Research the company and the interviewer’s background to show that you’re interested and knowledgeable.
Prepare a list of questions, and keep them open-ended to allow for a more in-depth conversation. Some example questions include:
– How did you get started in this field?
– What do you enjoy most about your job?
– What skills are necessary to succeed in this role?
– How would you describe the company culture?
Step 4: Conduct the Interview
During the interview, remember that it’s not a job interview. The purpose is to gather information, so be curious, engaged, and open-minded. Take notes, ask follow-up questions, and remember to thank the interviewer for their time.
It’s also essential to follow-up after the interview with a thank you email. Use this opportunity to express your appreciation, reiterate your interest in the company, and ask if they know of anyone else you can reach out to.
Step 5: Follow-Up and Stay Connected
After the interview, it’s essential to stay connected and continue building your network. If you applied for a position at the company, let your contact know and ask if they can provide any additional insight or advice.
Staying connected can also lead to further job opportunities down the line. Connect on LinkedIn, follow the company on social media, and keep in touch.
Conclusion
Informational interviews can be a valuable asset in your job search. By setting clear goals, identifying potential contacts, preparing for the interview, and following up, you can gather valuable insights and expand your network. Remember to stay curious, engaged, and respectful during the interview, and stay connected to continue building relationships.
