Why and How to Set Up Informational Interviews

Few tools are as powerful and underutilized in professional networking as the informational interview. In fact, many times when I have done training on networking and have asked the audience whether or not they have ever done an informational interview, more than half of the audience has said “No!”

Well, that won’t be you!

This newsletter will explore the immense value of informational interviews, how to request and prepare for them, techniques for conducting effective conversations, and strategies for following up to maintain and deepen these valuable connections.

Understanding the Power of Informational Interviews

Informational interviews are simple conversations with professionals in your field of interest, designed to gather insights, advice, and information about their career path, industry, or organization. Unlike job interviews, the primary goal is not to secure employment but to expand your knowledge and network. As the meeting requestor, you are primarily the one asking questions, but it’s still a two-way conversation.

These conversations can be transformational for several reasons:

1. Insider Knowledge: They provide firsthand information about industries, companies, and insights that you can’t find through online research alone.
2. Networking Opportunities: Each informational interview can lead to new connections and potential mentors in your field. It’s an early conversation that can lead to a growing relationship.
3. Career Clarity: They help you explore different career paths and make informed decisions about your professional future after getting insights and exposure into things you previously were unaware of.
4. Confidence Building: Practicing these conversations enhances your communication skills and builds confidence for future networking or job interviews.
5. Hidden Opportunities: Sometimes, these conversations can lead to unexpected job opportunities or referrals.

Convinced? Well let’s talk about how to make it happen!

Informational Interviews = Asking for Directions

Have you ever been traveling to a new place and found yourself unsure of how to get to your destination? This is one of my pet peeves, especially when I’m the one driving.

When you’re lost, somehow, some way, you need to get some help to figure out where to go.

In modern times, we often turn to our phone GPS (which isn’t always 100% accurate in my experience). But if we are in a place with no service, we might gasp actually have to ask another human for help!

When we’re unsure of where to go to find a desired destination, we need to ask for directions. Likewise, when we’re lost or unsure on how to navigate our career, we need to ask for guidance.

This is what informational interviews are - you’re simply asking for directions. Asking for help from others as you navigate the uncharted territory of career decisions helps you obtain important insights from others who know the territory better than you.

How often do people respond negatively when you ask for directions? Virtually never, and if they do, it’s probably because they are just having a bad day.

Asking for help doesn’t need to be complicated or formal. The people you talk to will see your earnestness, curiosity, and passion. This will increase your confidence and at the same time improve your opportunities and insights.

Reduce your stress as you reach out to get insights from others by simply “asking for directions” through the process of informational interviews. This will open opportunities in your pursuit of success in the industry you desire.

How to Request Informational Interviews

Requesting an informational interview requires tact and preparation. Here are some steps to follow:

1. Identify Potential Interviewees: Look for professionals in roles or companies that interest you. Use LinkedIn, professional associations, or your existing network to find suitable candidates. See chapters 3-4 for this!
2. Craft a Compelling Request: Write a concise, personalized message explaining who you are, how you found them, and why you’re interested in speaking with them specifically. Be clear that you’re seeking information and connection, not a job.
3. Be Flexible: Offer to accommodate their schedule and suggest a brief 20-30 minute conversation. Sometimes it goes longer, but this is a great amount of time to shoot for.
4. Follow Up: If you don’t receive a response, send a polite follow-up message after a week or two. People are often busy, and your initial message might have been overlooked.

Here is an example message you can send - make sure to adjust as needed:

Dear [Name],

I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I’m a [Your Position/Background]. who found your [blog post, journal, article, etc.] on [subject X] to be quite interesting.

Would you mind discussing your work further with me in a brief phone or video call? I had a few follow-up questions, and your insights would be invaluable. I’m particularly interested in hearing about [specific aspects of their career or industry].

I understand you must be busy, so I’m happy to work around your schedule. I’ll follow up in a few days if I don’t hear from you.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Take Intentional Action

Well, the recommended action is pretty simple.

Go request an informational interview.

Reach out to someone and schedule it. Ideally in the next week or two.

If you’re worried about how to conduct the conversation, I’ll share more on that in the next newsletter, or you can grab a copy of my new book right now (see below).

Reach out, and start connecting!

Accelerate Your Progress

This newsletter is an adapted excerpt from my newly released book, The Intentional Career Guide to Professional Networking .

So grab a copy of it, and if you are interested in being an early reader and becoming part of the “Book Army” to help launch it as well as the rest of the Intentional Career Guide series, sign up at https://www.intentionalcareerguide.com/bookarmy .

You can also find more related resources, courses, and more of The Intentional Career Guide at www.intentionalcareerguide.com .