I actually liked the CNBC article intriguingly entitled “Don’t Make This Mistake When Asking for an Informational Interview
.” Yes, informal calls with people about their job/industry are super helpful, whether prepping for an interview or growing in your field. How do you get someone to take your call? The article says you can do it even if you don’t know them:
- Ask one short question before asking for their time. People you are hitting up are established and busy; “they are less likely to give up their time for a stranger,” so don’t begin with a request for time. Instead, introduce yourself in 1-2 sentences, and then ask a short question they could answer via email or messaging. Examples of what to ask that could get a response: “what their favorite professional organization is, about a book that helped them in their career or a podcast that helped them get better at their job.”
- What to do after that one short question is answered. The article suggests a follow-up question plus this sample language: “if it’s easier, we could just talk for 15 minutes… I’d be happy to jump on a call if that would be more convenient for you.” The 15 minute suggestion explains “you’re opening up the idea of giving you some time but not asking for it directly.” To me, the suggestion of 15 minutes means you are considerate, savvy and not a time suck.
- Never ask to “pick your brain.” I agree. The article says the phrase “feels transactional,” but to me, it also sounds lazy, like you want someone else to do your homework. The article points out people enjoy giving advice when they feel like they’ve helped someone build their career, “but not if it feels like you’ll hound them with questions then disappear.” Yes on both counts.
- Phrases to use instead of the dreaded “pick your brain.” Ask to “get some of your unique insights,” “learn from your experience or expertise” or “get a glimpse into your process.” I particularly agree with the “unique insights” pitch since you need to show why the person you are asking is especially qualified to answer your question. See this post
by Wharton professor Adam Grant
on this point: “We know from research on social loafing that when people feel they have no unique contribution to make, they feel little responsibility to step up. Good emails overcome this barrier by highlighting what drew you to this person and the distinctive value that he or she can add. It’s worth devoting a sentence or two to what you know about the person’s work, and how it has influenced your life.”
