Informational Interviewing
An informational interview is an interview initiated by you with someone working in an organization or career field which interests you. It is not a job interview, and your goal should not be to ask for employment. Informational interviews allow you to gain realistic information about what you've heard or read about careers, to expand your knowledge of the job market, to learn about additional career paths, and to build your professional network by talking to individuals working in your career area.
The Informational Interviewing Process- Step 1: Finding people to interview
- Step 2: Making the initial contact
- Step 3: Conducting the interview
- Step 4: Follow up
Step 1: Finding people to interview
- Utilize Career Services Meet a Mentor Program
- Do you know someone who works in your field of interest? Do you know someone who knows someone in that area? Consider family, friends, friends' family, classmates, faculty, professionals such as your doctor, former and present co-workers, acquaintances, and supervisors.
- Become active in professional organizations related to your field; attend conferences and workshops to meet people in your career area.
- Journals and newsletters specific to your interest area can help you identify people visible in the field.
- Professors may have helpful literature, or names of people to contact.
- Use directories in the Brent D. Arcangel Career Resource Library and other written materials to identify names of potential contacts.
Step 2: Making the initial contact
Your interview may take place over the phone or during an office visit. If you do not have a direct referral to the person with whom you want to speak, consider writing an introductory letter indicating your request for a meeting, then follow up by phone. If you do have a direct referral, you may telephone the person directly indicating how you were referred to them.
Here are some samples of how you might begin your phone conversation.
To schedule a visit:
Hello, my name is ______; I am a student at the University at Buffalo, and I was referred to you by _____ as someone who might be able to help me. Is this a good time for you to speak with me?
(If yes: Great! Continue with an introduction like the one below. If no: When would be a better time?)
I am a senior majoring in _______ and would like to pursue a career in ______ when I graduate. I understand that you have been in the field for several years and may be able to provide me with some information. I was hoping that I could schedule a time to meet with you and ask you some questions.
To schedule a phone interview:
Hello, Mr./Ms./Dr. _______. My name is _______; I am a student at the University at Buffalo and I found your name from a resource directory of professionals in your field. Do you have a few moments to speak with me?
(If yes: Great! Continue with an introduction like the one below. If no: When would be a better time?)
I am a sophomore majoring in _____ and am considering a career in ______. While I have already done some research about the field, I still have a lot of questions about whether this is the right area for me. I was hoping you could tell me from a more experienced perspective what it is like to work as a ______? (RESPONSE) Great! Is right now a good time? I do have a few questions written down...
Step 3: Conducting the interview
- For a meeting, present yourself on time, professionally dressed, and prepared with research and questions. Click here for a list of questions to prepare.
- As the interview begins, re-state why you requested the meeting.
- The purpose of your call or visit is to learn from a professional. Express that this conversation and the information you gather have value for you. Most people enjoy an opportunity to help with information, advice, and guidance.
- DO NOT at any time ask for a job during an informational interview. By asking for a job, you risk embarrassment and ruined credibility.
- Take responsibility for keeping to the time you mentioned in your phone call, usually about 20-30 minutes. Stay longer only if invited to do so by the person you are interviewing.
- Before leaving, ask the professional if they know someone else you might speak with about the career field. This is one method of building your network.
Step 4: Follow up
- Record accurately the name of the person interviewed, the date of the meeting, what was discussed, and names of additional contacts. Obtaining your contact's business card could prove useful for this.
- Write a thank you note after each informational interview. Express your appreciation for the assistance you received and mention one or two specifically helpful points. If you are a senior, you may include a copy of your resume and indicate your willingness for it to be circulated as appropriate.
- When you make a decision about your career choice, or you find a position, share your news with people you have interviewed. They will want to hear what happened to you.
Good luck! We'd love to hear about your informational interviewing success!