“The information you get in an informational interview is only as good as the questions you ask.” – Jen Mueller
Would you like to land job opportunities before they’re even posted online? If so, one of the most powerful but underutilized tools in your job search strategy is the informational interview.
When I ask people in presentations, more than half of job seekers say they have never conducted an informational interview. To me, that means they’re missing out on a key networking opportunity that could open doors to hidden job prospects.
So today we’ll explore what informational interviews are, why they matter, and how to conduct them effectively to build relationships and boost your career prospects.
What Is an Informational Interview?
An informational interview is a conversation where you, the job seeker, take the lead in asking questions. Your goal is to gather insights about a company, an industry, or a specific career path—not to ask for a job directly.
It’s an opportunity to:
- Learn about someone’s career journey and industry insights.
- Gain valuable knowledge about job market trends.
- Build a relationship with professionals who can guide you.
- Expand your network and possibly uncover hidden job opportunities.
The key is true in informational interviews as it is in all professional networking: This isn’t just about finding a job—it’s about building meaningful connections.
How to Conduct a Great Informational Interview
Here are four steps to identify and conduct effective informational interviews that can open doors to new job opportunities.
1. Identify the Right People
Start by finding professionals who align with your career interests. Here’s how:
- LinkedIn: Search for people in roles or companies you admire. Use filters to find alumni from your school.
- Networking Events: Attend industry events and connect with speakers or attendees.
- Company Websites: Look at leadership and team pages for potential contacts.
- Referrals: Ask friends, mentors, or colleagues for introductions to relevant professionals.
When you find someone interesting, don’t hesitate—reach out and ask for a conversation.
2. Reach Out Effectively
When reaching out, be professional, respectful, and specific. Your message should include:
- A brief introduction (who you are and why you’re reaching out).
- Why you admire their work (mention a project, career path, or skill they have that interests you).
- A clear ask (request for a 20-30 minute conversation).
Example Message: “Hi [Name], I admire your work at [Company] and your experience in [Industry]. I’m currently exploring career paths in [Field] and would love to learn from your journey. Would you be open to a 20-minute chat to share insights about your role/career path? I’d really appreciate your time!”
If they don’t respond, follow up politely after a week—but don’t be pushy.
3. Prepare for the Conversation
Once someone agrees to speak with you, come prepared with great questions.
Key Questions to Ask:
- How did you get started in this industry?
- What do you love most about your job? What are the biggest challenges?
- What skills or experiences helped you advance in your career?
- How does hiring typically work at your company?
- What trends do you see shaping the industry in the next few years?
- If you were in my position, what steps would you take to break into this field?
Pro Tip: Don’t treat this like an interrogation. Let the conversation flow naturally while ensuring you cover key insights.
4. Follow Up and Keep the Connection Alive
After the conversation, don’t let the relationship end there. Here’s how to nurture the connection:
- Send a Thank-You Message: Express gratitude for their time and insights. Mention a specific part of the conversation that was particularly valuable.
- Ask for Referrals: Before ending the call, ask: “Is there anyone else you recommend I speak with?” This can lead to additional networking opportunities.
- Take Action and Follow Up: If they suggest resources, articles, or actions, follow through and update them on your progress. Staying in touch shows genuine interest and professionalism.
Final Thoughts: Take the Challenge!
If you’ve never done an informational interview before, challenge yourself to schedule one in the next week. If you’ve done them before but it’s been a while, it’s time to reconnect and expand your network.
By mastering the art of informational interviews, you’ll open new doors, gain insider knowledge, and increase your chances of landing hidden job opportunities.
Now it’s your turn: Who’s the first person you’re going to reach out to?
Watch more in the video below:
