Information Interviews

Informational interviews are a great networking technique for students and recent graduates. In an information interview, you ask the questions. They allow you to make meaningful connections with people who work in an industry you are interested in. They also give you more information about the industry and how to break into that industry.

Tip: Do not ask for a job! Focus on gaining information and building a meaningful connection with the person you are meeting. If you leave a good impression now, you never know what opportunities might open up down the road!

Purpose

• Get more information about a job or company that interests you.
• Make a connection in a specific company or industry, and possibly get your foot in the door.
• Get noticed by people in the industry.
• Interview someone who has or manages the job you want.

Be professional

• Dress professionally – pay close attention to industry standards of dress, and dress accordingly.
• Be on time.
• Know the name of the person who you are meeting.
• Offer to buy coffee as a small token of thanks for them taking time to meet with you.
• Follow up with a thank-you letter.
• Bring a networking card to provide your contact information – do not offer to give them your resume unless they specifically ask for it.

Sample questions

• What are duties performed during a typical day/week/month? Is there a set routine or lots of variety?
• What education is expected? What are some additional courses that I could take that would make me more desirable/qualified?
• What kind of work/internship experience would be beneficial to have?
• What types of qualities/attributes would make someone successful in this career?
• What are some important key or buzz words in this occupation that I should include on a resume?
• What are some skills that I should acquire?
• What are some related occupations?
• What are some demands and frustrations that typically may be experienced in this type of work?
• How did you get into this profession (experience, education)?
• What do you love most about your job?
• Do you have any advice for me as a student with an interest in this line of work?