How to Ask for (& Make the Most of) an Informational Interview

Informational interviews should be such a straightforward concept, no?

I mean, the name literally spells out what they are: interviews that allow you to gather information. Yet, for the vast majority of people I've coached over the years, they're confusing, intimidating, or both. And this is quite unfortunate because, done well, informational interviews can be wildly beneficial to your job search.

So let's talk how you can benefit, how to ask someone for an informational interview, and what to do once they've said yes.

How Informational Interviews Can Help You

? They may lead to "Inside Scoop"

Sure, sure. You can learn a lot from a job description. But job descriptions aren't always up-to-the-minute accurate, and they certainly don't give you the full dish on what the hiring manager is really looking for. A conversation with someone in-the-know about the team you're looking to join, or the hiring manager themselves, could go a long way in helping you put your best foot forward.

? They may lead to a valuable connection

Of course, the main purpose of an informational interview is to gather information, but these conversations may also result in your establishing connections with people who could help you land an interview. You shouldn't enter the discussion with an expectation of this, but it's certainly possible.

? They may make you rethink your plan

Now, hopefully this isn't the case, but it's possible. If you're envisioning a magical life at a company you've admired forever or thinking about changing careers, I would for sure have at least a couple of conversations with people at these organizations. Make sure your rosy vision for this next career move is grounded in reality.

Who to Ask for an Informational Interview

Honestly, you could ask just about anyone working in a company or career field of interest and gain something from the conversation. But aside from the obvious "recruiter" or "hiring manager" choices, the following types may be very helpful:

• Future peers - You may actually have an easier time getting on the radar of a peer-level employee than the hiring manager or company executive. Even better, try finding someone who recently joined that firm (or changed into the field you're eyeing). They may be rather energized to talk about their experience.
• Former employees - This can be a great way to get completely candid feedback on what it's like to work at a certain company or for a certain boss. Use care, of course. You don't want to look like you're prying for dirt, but talking to current and former employees may give you a more holistic picture about what it's like to work here.

How to Ask for an Informational Interview

This is the part that seems to really trip people up. We don't want to be a bother, or we're incredibly shy or introverted (I get it; I'm an introvert), or we find rejection incredibly difficult.

But here's the thing: If you ask five people for an informational interview and only one says yes, guess what? You're already 20% ahead than you'd have been if you had asked no one. (And it's almost never about you when they don't respond or politely decline, so try not to take the no's personally.)

Here's how you can reach out without coming across as overbearing and maximize the odds you'll get a favorable response:

Hi Elena,

I'm a supply chain manager with specific interest in artificial intelligence. In researching potential next employers, I discovered the work you're doing around supply chain AI at XYZ Company and I'm very interested in learning more. Would you be willing to have a brief conversation with me in the next couple of weeks? I'd love to ask you a few questions about your work and the impact you're seeing with AI thus far.

If you're open to a 15-minute chat, here's a link into my calendar. I'd be very grateful for your input: <Insert calender link>*

Thanks for considering!

Jenny

*PRO TIP: 

Make it easy for people to set time to meet with you by signing up for free scheduling software (Like Calendly). Then add the link to your request!        

How to Make the Most of an Informational Interview

There's no "single best way" to conduct an informational interview, but you should keep top-of-mind that you are the interviewer, not the interviewee. Show up prepared and make the most out of your time.

? Great Questions to Ask

1. What excited you the most when you joined this company?
2. What excites you now? Anything you're less excited about?
3. What is the work atmosphere like on your team?
4. How would you rate the work/life balance?
5. What types of people excel on this team (or at this company)?
6. What skills does the company (or team) really look for in the people they hire?
7. Are there other people you might recommend I speak with to learn more?
8. May I stay in touch with you as I continue exploring possibilities?

? Final Tips for Success

After the interview is finished, be sure and send an immediate thank you note and, if it feels appropriate to do so, extend an invitation to connect on LinkedIn.

Also, if you follow any advice that the interviewee suggest (and have positive results), always loop back around and let them know what happened. Most people love knowing that they've provided sound counsel. Also, this gives you another opportunity to build rapport.

So go forth and gather -- both information and professional allies.

Thanks for giving this a read. If you'd like to access more of my interviewing, job search, and professional development tips:

1. Check out?Expert Tips for Common Interview Questions

This self-paced video course is over on LinkedIn Learning. It'll help you answer all of those pesky questions that come up over and over again in interviews. I've made it free for viewing right through this link.

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