How to Request an Informational Interview The Right Way
If you are looking to advance your career, informational interviews can be a great way to gain valuable insights and expand your professional network. However, requesting an informational interview can be daunting, especially if you are approaching someone you admire or would like to work with.
In this article, we will discuss how to request an informational interview the right way, ensuring you are doing it professionally and effectively.
Why Request an Informational Interview?
An informational interview is an opportunity to speak with professionals in your field and learn more about their experiences, job roles, and the industry in general. This type of interview allows you to gain insight into a particular career path or company you are interested in and can help you decide if it’s the right fit for you.
Additionally, informational interviews offer the chance to make meaningful industry connections that can potentially lead to job offers or future projects.
Research Potential Interviewees
Begin by researching potential interviewees. Look at companies or roles you are interested in and find people who are currently working in those positions. LinkedIn is a great tool for finding professionals in your field, and you can use it to see who is currently employed as well as their job descriptions and experience.
Once you have a list of potential interviewees, prioritize them based on their relevance to your career goals and industry. You want to make the most out of your time and ensure you are speaking with the most qualified professionals.
Make Contact
Once you have identified potential interviewees, reach out to them and express your interest in speaking with them. Be professional and clear about your intentions, and don’t be afraid to be specific about why you are requesting an interview.
Start by sending an email or LinkedIn message introducing yourself and your interest, being clear that you are requesting an informational interview. Be sure to acknowledge their busy schedule and express your desire to make the meeting as convenient as possible for them.
Prepare For The Interview
If your request for an interview is accepted, it’s important to prepare ahead of time. Research the person you are speaking with and their career path, prepare thoughtful and relevant questions, and come up with a clear goal for the interview.
During the interview, be professional, courteous, and respectful of the interviewee’s time. Remember that you are the one asking for assistance, and show gratitude and appreciation for their time.
Follow-Up
After the interview, be sure to follow-up with an email or message thanking the interviewee for their time. Use this opportunity to express your appreciation for their insights and advice, and let them know you will be keeping in touch.
Additionally, don’t hesitate to reach out to the interviewee in the future for any questions or advice. Building and maintaining professional relationships is essential to advancing your career.
Conclusion
Overall, requesting an informational interview can be an invaluable tool in advancing your career, gaining industry insights, and building meaningful professional connections. By doing your research, making contact professionally, preparing for the interview, and following up afterward, you can ensure that your request for an interview is effective and fruitful.
