How to Have a Good Informational Interview

Imagine you're about to meet someone who could open doors to your dream career. You're sitting at a café, nervously sipping on your coffee, waiting for them to arrive. Your mind races: What should you ask? What if the conversation is awkward? How do you ensure you don't waste this rare opportunity to make a lasting impression?

The key to mastering an informational interview lies in preparation, genuine curiosity, and strategic follow-up. Unlike a job interview where you're on the spot, an informational interview is a more relaxed setting where you can learn about a specific role, company, or industry without the pressure of being judged. The stakes are different, but that doesn't mean they aren't high. A well-conducted informational interview can set the stage for future opportunities, expand your network, and provide insights that aren't available online.

1. Understand the Value of an Informational Interview

An informational interview isn't a covert job interview. It's a research tool that provides you with firsthand knowledge from someone who's been there, done that. By tapping into their experiences, you gain insights that no amount of Googling can offer. Whether you're exploring a career pivot, looking for insider tips, or simply trying to figure out your next move, an informational interview is an invaluable resource.

However, to make the most of it, you must understand what it isn't. It isn't a chance to directly ask for a job or push your resume onto someone. It’s about building a genuine connection, gathering insights, and leaving a positive impression that could lead to future opportunities.

2. Choose the Right Person to Interview

Who you choose to interview is just as important as what you ask. Don’t limit yourself to C-suite executives or renowned industry leaders. Sometimes, mid-level professionals, recent graduates from a similar program, or someone who has recently transitioned to the field you're interested in can offer more practical, relatable advice.

To find the right person, use tools like LinkedIn to identify potential contacts. Look for common ground—whether it's a shared alma mater, a mutual connection, or similar career paths. Reaching out to the right person is about understanding who can provide you with the most value based on where you currently stand.

3. Craft a Compelling Outreach Message

Once you've identified someone you'd like to connect with, the next step is crafting a message that doesn't get ignored. Avoid generic messages like "I'd love to pick your brain" or "Can I have a few minutes of your time?" Instead, personalize your message. Mention something specific about their work, a project they’ve led, or an article they’ve written. Show that you’ve done your homework.

Here’s an example of a compelling outreach message:

"Hi [Name],
I recently read your article on [specific topic] and found it incredibly insightful. I’m currently exploring a career shift into [industry/role] and would love to hear more about your journey, especially how you navigated [specific challenge]. Would you be open to a 20-minute conversation sometime in the next few weeks? I’d be happy to work around your schedule. Thank you for considering it!"

Specificity and sincerity go a long way. Most professionals are happy to share their experiences if they feel the request is genuine and respectful of their time.

4. Prepare Thoughtful Questions

Preparation is the cornerstone of any successful informational interview. You need to have a game plan that includes not just questions, but also what you aim to achieve from the conversation. Are you looking for insight into the day-to-day realities of a role? Trying to understand industry trends? Or maybe you’re curious about the culture of a specific company?

Here’s a list of thoughtful questions that go beyond the basics:

• What do you enjoy most about your work, and what are the biggest challenges you face?
• Can you walk me through a typical day or week in your role?
• How did you get started in this field, and what advice would you give to someone looking to break into it?
• What skills or experiences do you believe are crucial for success in this role or industry?
• Are there any resources (books, courses, organizations) you would recommend for someone in my position?
• What are some of the trends or changes you see coming in the industry in the next few years?

Tailor these questions to your specific needs and the person you're interviewing. The more personalized your questions, the more valuable the insights you’ll receive.

5. Master the Art of Active Listening

An often-overlooked skill in informational interviews is active listening. It’s easy to get caught up in thinking about your next question, but truly absorbing what the other person is saying can open up new avenues for discussion. Nod, maintain eye contact, and respond thoughtfully. Your goal is to make it a conversation, not an interrogation.

Listening actively also involves being aware of the time. If you asked for 20 minutes, stick to it. Around the 18-minute mark, start wrapping up the conversation unless they suggest otherwise.

6. Build a Genuine Connection

Beyond the questions and answers, aim to build a genuine connection. People are more likely to help and remember those with whom they feel a personal connection. Share a bit about your own story, your passions, and what drives you. It’s not just about extracting information; it’s about sharing an authentic exchange.

7. Follow Up Strategically

The follow-up is where most people drop the ball. A simple "Thank you" email isn't enough. Instead, consider sending a more thoughtful follow-up that not only expresses gratitude but also reiterates something specific from your conversation. This could be a piece of advice that stood out, a recommended resource they mentioned, or even an article or book they might find interesting.

Here’s an example:

"Hi [Name],
Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with me yesterday. I especially appreciated your insights on [specific topic], and I’m already looking into the resources you suggested. I’ve attached an article I came across that I thought you might find interesting given our discussion on [related topic]. Thanks again, and I hope we can stay in touch!"

Such a follow-up does three things: shows appreciation, demonstrates you were paying attention, and offers value in return. This approach leaves a lasting impression.

8. Keep the Momentum Going

Don’t let the connection end with a single conversation. Maintain the relationship by occasionally checking in. Share relevant updates about your career progress, articles, or events that might interest them, or simply ask how they are doing. The goal is to keep the relationship warm without being overbearing.

Conclusion

Informational interviews are more than just fact-finding missions—they’re a strategic networking tool. When done right, they can be a game-changer for your career. But it takes more than just showing up and asking a few questions. It requires careful preparation, genuine curiosity, and strategic follow-up.

The real power of an informational interview lies in the connections you make and the doors those connections can open. So, approach it with the right mindset, and who knows? Your next informational interview might just be the stepping stone to your dream job.