Informational Interviews: How LinkedIn Can Help You Get Your Boot in the Door

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Deciding what to do next is the hardest part of military transition.

You might be drawn to several different career fields, but how can you know which one is right for you?

Talk to people and find out!

Conduct informational interviews with as many people as possible in each of the roles that interest you. When you learn more about what people do in their jobs, you'll cross some things off your list right away.

So, what’s an informational interview?

It’s an informal conversation with a professional in your desired field. It's an opportunity to learn about their career journey, gain insights into the industry, and build a connection.

Informational interviews are a key step in the military transition process.

They allow you to -

• Learn about different career paths and job roles.
• Gain insider knowledge on industry trends and challenges.
• Network with experienced professionals who can help you in your job search.
• Build a personal brand and establish yourself as an authority in your field.

How to Leverage LinkedIn for Informational Interviews

1. Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile

Before you start reaching out to potential interviewees, make sure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date and complete. Include a professional photo (preferably with a smile on your face), a concise summary, and relevant experience details. Your profile is your digital resume, so make sure it's well-crafted and leaves a lasting impression.

Need help getting started? >> The Beginner's Guide to Setting Up an Effective LinkedIn Profile

2. Identify Potential Interviewees

Use LinkedIn's search functions to find professionals who are currently working in your target industry. You can search by job title, company, or location to narrow down your options. Don't hesitate to connect with individuals who share your military background, as they’re often more inclined to help a fellow veteran.

>> Here’s LinkedIn’s guide on how to search for people on LinkedIn.? ?

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3. Send Personalized Connection Requests

When you send a LinkedIn connection request (300 characters maximum), make sure your message focuses on the other person and not yourself.

Try this formula:

• Start your message by saying something nice or flattering about the other person so that it’s clear you've visited their profile.
• Then highlight something you both have in common so there's enough of a connection that they’ll want to invest some time in you.

Example: “Hi, Paul. I see you're a retired Army Sergeant Major who found success with Bank of America after the military. I'm also in the Army, and I'm getting out in six months. I’d love to connect and learn more about the work you’re doing. Best, Frank.”

4. Request an Informational Interview

Once your connection request is accepted, send a polite message requesting an informational interview. Be clear about your goals and suggest a convenient time for the conversation.

Example: “Mark, how’s it going? I’m transitioning out of the Navy and looking at project management roles in the Dallas area. I see you’ve been with Blue Hawk Construction for a few years now, and I was hoping you might have some time to chat about your experience there. Are you free for a quick call sometime next week? Best, John.”???

5. Ace the Interview

During the interview, ask open-ended questions about the industry, the individual's career path, and their recommendations for someone in your position. Listen actively, take notes, and express your appreciation for their time and guidance.

?A few additional tips:

• Don't ask questions that can be easily answered with a Google search. Instead, ask questions that will give you insights into the person's career journey, the industry, and the job role you're interested in.?
• Be genuine and authentic during your conversations. People are more likely to want to help you if they can see that you're a good person who’s genuinely interested in learning from them.
• Be respectful of the other person's time. Keep your informational interviews to 20-30 minutes.

6. Send a Thank-You Note

Whenever someone invests time in you, send them a quick thank-you note to convey your appreciation. This small gesture will show your professionalism, help cement the relationship you’re building, and keep you on good terms with the person you’ve interviewed.

If you leave a positive impression, your interviewee will be more inclined to recommend you when a job opens at their company!

7. Maintain Your Connections

Continue to nurture your relationships with the professionals you meet on LinkedIn. Periodically reach out to share your progress, provide updates on your job search, or ask for advice.

If someone gives you advice, follow it (and follow up). Your mentor is invested in your success and wants you to achieve your goals. When you follow their advice – and keep them updated on your progress – you could potentially have a great connection who can open doors for you down the road.

Building long-term relationships with experienced professionals is key to your post-military career success.

Transitioning from the military? HireMilitary can help.

HireMilitary is a veteran-owned small business offering FREE job placement services to everyone in the military community with employers looking to hire military talent.

You can find jobs and SkillBridge internship opportunities at HireMilitary.us

You can also join the SkillBridge talent pool (for Transitioning Service Members) or jobs talent pool (for Veterans and Military Spouses) to receive regular updates and allow our recruiting team to look out for opportunities just for you.

Let us help you kickstart your next career!

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