Informational Interview
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On the opposite end of the stress spectrum from screening interviews is the informational
interview. The informational interview is underutilized by job-seekers
who might otherwise consider themselves savvy to the merits of networking.
Job seekers arrange informational interviews in order to seek career advice
from someone already working in their current or desired fields, as well as to
gain further references to people who can also lend insight.
Employers who like to stay apprised of available talent even when they do not
have current job openings, are often open to informational interviews.
That's especially true when they like to share knowledge, feel flattered by
your interest or place particular esteem on the mutual friends or associates
that connected you to them.
During an informational interview, the job seeker and employer exchange information
and get to know one another better, but not for a specific job opening. (However,
it might lead to a job down the road.) This relieves some of the performance
pressure of other interview types. But, be intentional and on your best behavior
nevertheless.
Below are quick tips for getting the most out of informational interviews. See Informational
Interviews in the Career Networking
Center for more tips.
- Come prepared with thoughtful questions about the field and the company.
- Ask for references to other people. Make sure that the interviewer would
be comfortable if you contact them and use his or her name.
- Give the interviewer your card or contact information and resume.
Send a thank you note to each of your informational
interviewers.
Interview Types
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For sample interview questions and tips for navigating other interview types
not listed above (such as technical interviews),
start at Interviews.
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