Did you know that 95% of recruiters utilize LinkedIn as a source to identify qualified candidates? Learn how to set up a competitive profile on the worlds #1 professional networking site, along with other tips about developing a positive digital brand!
Don’t forget to view our LinkedIn Guide
Informational interviewing is an important tool in helping individuals gain a better understanding about the knowledge, skills and abilities needed in different careers.
Whether you are a freshman at SHU or an experienced alumnus, do not overlook the informational interview! The job market is extremely competitive and informational interviews can be a great way to leverage your connections and create a more meaningful network.
What is Informational Interviewing?
An informational interview is a meeting to learn about the real-life experience of someone working in a field or company that interests you. It’s not a job interview, so it’s important to keep focused on getting information, not a job offer.
Some benefits of information interviewing are:
-
- Get firsthand, relevant information about the realities of working within a particular field, industry or position. This kind of information is not always available online.
- Find out about career paths you did not know existed.
- Get tips and insider knowledge about how to prepare for and land your first career position.
- Learn what it’s like to work at a specific organization.
- Initiate a professional relationship and expand your network of contacts in a specific career field; meet people who may forward job leads to you in the future.
Questions to Ask:
- What is a typical day like in your job?
- What do you like most/least about this career?
- Is your job typical of others in this field?
- What are current job prospects like?
- Are there related fields I might want to consider?
- What makes a resume impressive in your field?
- Is my resume appropriate for this occupation?
- How do you stay current in your knowledge?
- What are employers looking for in this career (skills, education, experience)?
- What’s the best way to find out about jobs in this field?
- What is the career ladder for this position?
- What would you recommend I do at this point to get into this field?
- What are the future trends for this field?
- Is there anyone else you would recommend I talk to in this field?
To learn more about a specific company, ask questions like these
- What’s the corporate culture like here?
- How do you normally hire for this occupation?
- What is the average turnover in this type of job?
- Which firms do you think are your toughest competitors, and how do they differ from your company?
What else do I need to know?
- Make a good impression. This person may provide additional referrals that could to lead to a job.
- Keep it short. Limit your initial interview to 15 to 30 minutes based on how the conversation is going.
- End the interview with stating any follow up actions you will take based on their recommendations.
- Thank them for their time and information, and send a thank-you note after your interview.
Benefits of Informational Interviewing:
- Learn relevant information about the field/industry you are interested in.
- Learn more about career paths you did not know about before.
- Initiate a professional relationship and expand your network.
- Get tips on how to land a job.
How to Prepare:
- Develop an introduction of yourself and what you are looking to get out of the interview.
- Plan questions to ask that are open-ended.
- Contact the interviewer.
- Practice in advance.
- Dress Appropriately.
After the Interview:
- Make sure to follow up.
- Send a handwritten thank you note or an email and be specific.
- Mention something that was memorable from your conversation
- Thank them again for taking the time to meet with you
- If they asked for a resume, be sure to attach an updated version
- Following up is a great way to help move the relationship forward with the interviewer
- Send a handwritten thank you note or an email and be specific.