The Informational Interview: A Four-Step Structure

I am going to walk you through four simple steps that make up a proper informational interview meeting so you can crush it.

The Four Steps:?

Step #1: The Great First Impression?

The importance of making a strong initial impression during a meeting, as it can significantly influence the overall dynamic and perception of the interaction, including factors like?arriving on time, positive body language, a warm greeting, and showing genuine interest in the other person?- essentially setting the tone for the rest of the conversation.?

• Respect the other person’s time: It is important to arrive early NOT late.
• Express your gratitude for the meeting: You might already have said ‘Thank you’ when you set up the meeting, but it is important to say it again during the meeting. Remember, ‘Time is a gift’ and your contact is giving you the gift, respect this gift.
• When initiating a new connection with someone, mentioning shared acquaintances or "mutual connections" can significantly boost trust by?establishing a sense of familiarity and common ground, making the other person feel more comfortable and open to interacting with you.?
• Setting an agenda: This is crucial because it clearly communicates to your contacts what will be discussed, demonstrating your professionalism, preparedness, respect for their time, and ability to lead the conversation, thereby enhancing your overall image during the job search process.
• Quick Tip: As the person?who requested the meeting, it’s your job to start the discussion. Don’t wait for your contact to start the discussion.

Step #2: The Great Overview?

This is where you give the 30-second snapshot (elevator speech) of your background to provide context for the rest of your discussion.

Sets expectations:

• By outlining the topics to be covered, your contact knows what to anticipate and can prepare accordingly.

Shows organization:

• A well-structured agenda reflects your ability to plan and manage your time effectively.

Builds confidence:

• Taking initiative to set an agenda demonstrates your confidence in leading the discussion.

Step #3: The Great Discussion?

Once you have given your snapshot of who you are as a?professional, you are going to lead your contact to the discussion. This is where the bulk of your time is going to be spent. The great discussion comprises the 5 key questions:

Question 1-3 Thought Provoking

Ask about a career change, a company change, an industry trend, or the value of a PhD (for my clinical research friends).?Use thought-provoking questions that would earn you the kind of insight that is NOT available anywhere else.

*Pro Tip: 
DON'T ask for a job        

Asking for more contact names is expected, this is the major objective of any informational interview. BUT REMEMBER this is an informational interview NOT a job interview. It’s important to be clear about your intentions and let the person know that you are NOT looking for a job, but rather seeking information and advice. Asking for a job during an informational interview can come across as pushy and unprofessional.

Question 4: Reciprocity?

“How can I help you?” This should be the first question you should ask in an informational interview it demonstrates interest and empathy. This question creates a sense of professional relationship. It tells your contact that you understand that networking is a give and take. In sum, building reciprocity with this question can generate additional networking meetings; additional business contacts; more word of mouth about you; a consulting gig, a contract gig: A JOB!

Step #4: The Great Follow-Up?

• Immediate:?(1) Take prompt action to follow up within 24 hours? (2) Follow up with the person you just met and the person who referred you
• Ongoing: To keep your network alive, you must stay in touch. And you do this with ongoing follow-up or networking maintenance.??Rules of ongoing follow-up:? Touch base quarterly with a few exceptions; Close contacts; Change of contact info; New degree or certification; About to graduate? Inform your contact so you can be on top of their mind).

Keep your network alive. Stay in touch!

And there you have it ... Remember #WEareALLinthisTOGETHER WE all should help each other.

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