The Art of the Informational Interview: How to Connect With & Learn from Industry Professionals

In today’s competitive job market, an informational interview can be one of the most valuable tools in your career toolkit. These conversations provide insights into industries, roles, and companies, helping you expand your network and gain advice from those who’ve been in the field. Whether you're just starting, looking to switch careers, or exploring new opportunities, an informational interview can open doors and provide essential guidance.

Here’s my advice on how to effectively approach:

1. Define Your Goals

Before reaching out to anyone, take a moment to clarify what you want from the interview. Are you trying to learn about a specific role or industry? Do you want advice on overcoming common challenges in the field? Identifying your goals ensures your conversation stays focused and productive.

2. Research Potential Contacts

Start by identifying professionals who can offer insights relevant to your goals. Look for alumni, industry leaders, or professionals you admire. LinkedIn is an excellent resource for finding potential contacts, but don’t overlook your personal network. Professors, colleagues, professional organizations or even some friends can also connect you to the right people.

When you reach out, be clear and respectful. Introduce yourself, explain why you’re interested in connecting, and make it clear you’re requesting an informational interview—not a job interview. A well-crafted, polite request will increase the chances of getting a positive response.

3. Craft Your Message

Keep your initial message short, polite, and professional. Here's a sample message to guide you:

Subject: Request for an Informational Interview

Dear [Name],

I hope you’re doing well! My name is [Your Name], and I am currently [your current situation—e.g., graduating from xxxx this year and/or exploring new career opportunities]. I came across your profile and was impressed by your experience in [specific field/industry].

I would love to learn more about your career journey and gain any advice you might have for someone starting out in the industry. If you have 20-30 minutes available for an informational interview, I would greatly appreciate the chance to speak with you.

Does a time this week or next work?

Thank you for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you!

All the best,

[NAME]

LinkedIn Profile Link

4. Prepare Thoughtful Questions

Prepare a list of questions that will help you gain meaningful insights. Focus on open-ended questions that encourage detailed responses. Here are a few examples:

• Can you share your career journey and how you reached your current role?
• What key skills are most important to succeed in this industry?
• What challenges have you faced, and how did you overcome them?
• How do you see the industry evolving in the next 5-10 years?
• What strategies do you use to maintain work-life balance in this field?

Be ready to follow up on interesting points during the conversation. Feel free to ask for additional resources or suggestions for others you might connect with.

5. Respect Their Time & Actively Listen?

Professionals are busy, so respect their time. Keep the conversation to 20-30 minutes and stay on schedule. Whether you meet in person or over the phone, show up on time and be ready to start promptly. At the end of the interview, thank them for their time and advice.

Also, be curious and listen actively:

The focus should be on learning from them. Again, this is not a job interview/ time to sell yourself. Take notes, and ask follow-up questions based on their responses. Try to build a rapport while remaining professional.

6. Follow Up

After the interview, send a thank-you note. Express your appreciation for their time and mention something specific you learned. This reinforces your connection and shows gratitude. A thoughtful follow-up can leave a lasting impression and may lead to more opportunities down the line.

Sample

Subject: Thank you for your time today!

Dear [Name],

Thank you for taking the time to speak with me today. I really appreciated learning about your experiences in [specific field or industry] and the advice you shared regarding [something specific you discussed]. Your insights on [key takeaway] were particularly valuable, and I’m excited to apply them as I continue my career journey.

I hope you don't mind that I added requested to connect with you on LinkedIN.

If there’s ever anything I can do to return the favor, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I look forward to staying in touch and will keep you updated on my progress.

All the best,

[Your Name]

7. Stay Connected

Informational interviews are about more than just gathering information. They’re an opportunity to build a relationship. Keep in touch with the person you spoke with, whether through LinkedIn or occasional check-ins. These connections can turn into mentorships, collaborations, or even job opportunities in the future.

TLDR - Informational interviews are an invaluable tool for career exploration and networking. By reaching out to professionals in your field, you can gain practical insights that guide your decisions and shape your career path. So, don’t hesitate—reach out to professionals, learn from their experiences, and use their advice to propel your career forward.

Hope this was helpful! Happy Building!

To Impact,

Trisha