An Information Interview vs a Job Interview

An Informational Interview is not a Job Interview

An informational interview is not a job interview but an informal conversation between a job seeker and an employed professional.? Informational interviews are not meant to land you a job but to expand your network in a particular field.? An informational interview isn't the same as a formal job interview and is not intended to find a job.? When conducting an informational interview, avoid asking questions that could come across as "job-hunting."? An informational interview can help you understand a new company's culture and find ways to up-skill in the process.

Although it is not a traditional job interview, it is still an essential step toward building professional connections.? During an informational interview, you should prepare a written outline of the questions you want to ask.? Be prepared with questions relevant to the company and industry you are seeking.? Informational interviews can give you the inside scoop on the company culture and industry trends.? They can also help you decide which career path will suit you best.

So, what are the best questions to ask at an Information Interview?

In his book, The 2-Hour Job Search, Second Edition, Steve Dalton suggests a questioning flow called TIARA.

• Trends
• Insights
• Advice
• Resources
• Assignments

Here’s an example of the flow:

Trends: “What trend is most impacting your business right now?”?

Insights: “What surprises you most about your job?”

Advice: “If you were me, what would you be doing right now to best prepare for a career in this field?”?

Resources: “What resources should I be sure to look into next?”?

Assignments: “What’s been your favorite project so far?”

I suggest you grab a copy of Steve’s book for more information on being successful in securing and conducting Informational Interviews.

Follow up

1. Send a thank-you email message within 24 hours of the meeting
2. Follow up with the person with whom you met in a couple of weeks to let them know what happened because of the advice they provided.
3. Set up a monthly reminder to keep the people with whom you've met updated on your progress.

An informational interview can also turn into a mentoring relationship.? Use them as learning opportunities.?