HOW DO YOU CONDUCT AN INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEW?
Your contacts have responded to your informational interview requests. Awesome! Now what do you do?
SET GOALS & ASK QUESTIONS
- Research the organization and career path of the professionals you’re interviewing so you can ask catered questions.
- Gain first-hand information by asking about their personal experience, such as how they decided on a major or career. Find great questions here.
- Ask which professional organizations you should join and publications you should read in order to get more involved in your field.
- Seek input on your academic major by getting coursework recommendations.
- Request feedback on your resume.
GAIN REFERRALS & MAKE A GOOD IMPRESSION
- Respect their time by honoring the time agreed upon and moving the conversation to a close 2-3 minutes prior to the end of your meeting.
- Remember that even though you may want an internship or job, it is not appropriate to ask for one.
- Inquire about other professionals or organizations you can contact and if you can say you were referred by them.
STAY IN TOUCH
- Request a business card/contact information from your interviewers and connect with them through LinkedIn.
- Send a thank-you note or email expressing your gratitude for their time within 24 hours.
- Maintain contact by sending them updates on how you’re progressing through your career.