Mastering the Informational Interview: What You Must Know

What if the difference between landing your dream job and staying stuck where you are is one simple conversation? Welcome to the world of informational interviews, where career-changing insights are gained, and opportunities are revealed—often without you even realizing it. In this deep dive, we'll uncover the ultimate strategies for extracting maximum value from these underutilized conversations. But first, let me ask you: Have you ever wondered what truly separates a successful informational interview from a forgettable one?

This question leads us into the core of the matter. The reality is, the most successful informational interviews are not about asking for a job. In fact, many professionals mistakenly approach these conversations as a covert job hunt. The real gold lies in learning, building relationships, and making yourself memorable. When done right, informational interviews are powerful networking tools, offering you the opportunity to understand a company or industry in ways no job description ever will.

Why Should You Care?

Think of this: You're one well-informed conversation away from making the right career move. Informational interviews offer something job interviews rarely do: no pressure. You’re not being judged. You’re the one asking questions, steering the conversation, and gathering valuable intel. Your goal is simple—build a meaningful connection and arm yourself with knowledge you can’t find online.

Let’s break down exactly what you should talk about, starting with the mindset.

Mindset First: Be Curious, Not Desperate

Before you even think about what to say in an informational interview, you need to shift your perspective. This is a learning opportunity, not a chance to pitch yourself. You’re not there to beg for a job or even subtly hint that you’re job hunting. Your focus should be on the other person—what they know, what they’ve experienced, and how you can learn from them. This humble, curious mindset will serve you well.

The Five Questions You Must Ask

While every informational interview is unique, there are five core questions that will lead to a fruitful conversation. These aren’t just surface-level queries; they’re designed to unlock deeper insights and spark a connection.

1. What led you to your current role?

   • This question is not only a great icebreaker but also gives you a sense of the person’s journey, their motivations, and the decision-making process that shaped their career. You’ll learn what key skills or experiences are valued in the industry.

2. What does a typical day look like for you?

   • The devil is in the details. A job description tells you the big picture, but this question uncovers the day-to-day realities that could either excite or dissuade you from pursuing a similar path. You might find hidden perks or deal-breaking aspects that you would never have known without asking.

3. What challenges do you face in your role?

   • Every job has its challenges, and understanding these will give you a clear picture of what it takes to succeed. It’s also a subtle way to uncover gaps in the industry that you could potentially fill with your skill set.

4. What trends are you seeing in the industry?

   • In the fast-paced world we live in, industries are constantly evolving. This question not only makes you sound informed but also helps you get ahead of the curve. If you can predict where the industry is going, you can position yourself as a valuable asset.

5. Who else should I talk to?

   • This is perhaps the most important question. Networking is the key to growth, and each conversation should lead to the next. Always ask for additional contacts, ensuring that you’re expanding your network exponentially. Remember, the more people you talk to, the more insights you gain.

Pitfalls to Avoid: What NOT to Say

It’s equally important to know what not to say in an informational interview. Here are three common mistakes:

1. Avoid Asking Directly for a Job
   While it might be tempting to use this opportunity to ask for a job, it’s a huge turnoff. You’re there to gather information and build a relationship, not to put the person on the spot.

2. Don’t Focus Solely on Yourself
   This is not the time for a monologue about your career history and ambitions. Keep the focus on the other person. Your questions should prompt them to share their experiences and insights.

3. Steer Clear of Salary Discussions
   Asking about salary during an informational interview is a rookie mistake. While compensation is important, this conversation is not the time or place. You’re gathering insight into the role and the industry, not negotiating a paycheck.

How to Build Lasting Connections: The Follow-Up

Your informational interview doesn’t end when you hang up the phone or walk out of the coffee shop. The follow-up is where relationships are solidified. Send a thoughtful thank-you note, referencing specific things they shared that you found valuable. Keep the door open for future conversations, and always offer to return the favor if you can.

Think of the follow-up as your opportunity to be remembered. Busy professionals often engage in many of these conversations, and you want to ensure you stand out. Be genuine, concise, and express your gratitude. This small gesture can pay huge dividends down the line.

Case Study: Turning an Informational Interview into a Job Offer

Here’s a real-world example. Jane Doe was a marketing professional looking to break into tech. She arranged an informational interview with a director at a tech firm. Instead of focusing on her need for a new job, Jane asked insightful questions about the company’s challenges and how their marketing efforts aligned with industry trends. The director was impressed by her curiosity and knowledge, leading to several introductions to others in the company. A few months later, when a position opened up, Jane was top of mind. She didn’t apply through the typical HR process; instead, she was referred directly to the hiring manager.

This example illustrates the power of being strategic and focused in your approach. You’re not just networking—you’re building credibility and trust.

Bonus Tips for Success: The Extras That Count

• Do Your Homework: Before the interview, research the person and their company thoroughly. The more prepared you are, the more meaningful your questions will be.
• Be Mindful of Time: Respect their schedule. If the interview is set for 30 minutes, don’t let it run over unless they extend it.
• Offer Value: If possible, offer something in return, even if it’s as simple as sharing a relevant article or connecting them with someone in your network.

In summary, the informational interview is one of the most powerful tools you can use to navigate your career path. Approach it with curiosity, focus on the other person, ask the right questions, and you’ll open doors you didn’t even know existed.

Now, take action. Schedule your next informational interview and start building the network that will propel your career forward. The opportunities are there—you just have to seize them.