How can you leverage informational interviews for a successful career transition?

The best way to request an informational interview is through a warm lead. When one of your network contacts recommends to someone else that they should speak with you, chances are they will say yes when you reach out to them. Cold calling can work, but generally is not as effective. Use your network to open the door for you.

Preparation: 1. Set Clear Goals (Career exploration or industry insights) 2. Identify Contacts using platforms like LinkedIn. 3. Develop open-ended questions tailored to each interviewee's background and experiences. 4. Research Contacts to learn about their careers to engage more effectively. 5. Request Meetings 6. Craft an Introduction highlighting your interests and goals. Conducting the Interview:- 1. Arrange the Meeting and have a backup plan for technical issues. 2. Maintain professionalism in demeanor and attire. 3. Start with appreciation for their time. 4. Use your prepared questions as a guide, listening actively and asking follow-ups. 5. Document key insights. 6. Stick to the agreed time frame.

The more you prepare, the more comfortable and confident you will feel about the conversation - and this is important for people who feel nervous about networking. Think about what your "ask" is - what are you hoping to gain from this conversation that will support your job search? Then prepare questions that will get you the information you need. Prioritize your questions - order them from most important to least - this way, if something comes up for the person you are interviewing and you only have 15 min vs the scheduled 30 min, you can easily see which questions you need to ask first and which ones will have to wait for another discussion.

A good practice is to send an email within 24 hours of meeting them. In this message, thank them for their time, and highlight one thing they shared that was interesting or valuable for you, and why. It will show you are keen and paid attention. Don't forget to thank the person who connected you in the first place! People want to help and especially want to know how they helped.

If you think you don't have to prepare for this conversation, think again! I have some clients who say "I'm just better in conversation and letting the discussion flow". But by doing this, there are missed opportunities to get the information you need. And not preparing communicates the message that you don't value the other person's time.

At the end of the conversation, make sure to ask them if there is anyone in their circle they would recommend you connect with. This simple ask will not only help to grow your network, but may help you get connected to someone with a job for you. It can feel hard to ask, but know this is an expected and accepted practice. Not asking is a missed opportunity. And if you don't ask, you don't get!