Getting the Inside Story: The Value of Informational Interviews

By Max Messmer

Chairman and CEO

Robert Half International Inc.

As the saying goes, “It's not what you know, but who you know.” Informational interviews are a great way to gain access to knowledgeable people who can offer insight into advancing your career. Even if those with whom you meet are not in a position to offer you a specific job, your positive impression can influence their commitment to help you network. They may also recommend you for future job openings at their own firm. Following are a few tips to help you make the most of informational interviews:

 

Arrange a Meeting

To get started, write down the names of prospects for such meetings -- people, organizations and industries that interest you. Keep in mind that your primary purpose is to acquire information from those you meet. When you call an individual, introduce yourself with a 15-second summary of your background and what you're looking for. Inquire whether he or she has 20 to 30 minutes of time to provide insight on such topics as which specialty areas are hiring most actively, trends in the profession or industry, or other significant business issues. In most cases, people are flattered when asked to help others. Remember, though, that these are not job interviews; your purpose is to obtain information. If you ask about employment openings, the executive may feel misled.

Do Your Homework

To prepare for an informational interview, follow the same guidelines as you would for a job interview. Consider your career objectives and take time to think about the topics you'd like to explore in your discussions. For example, if you're meeting to gain insight into a particular company, conduct some initial research through business publications or corporate literature and develop intelligent questions. This will demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm -- two winning characteristics of successful job seekers.

 

Make the Time Productive

Before the interview gets underway, verify exactly how much time you have and describe your objectives briefly. Make sure the person you're meeting with knows that the interview is purely informational: You want to ask questions of professionals who will help guide your job search. As a courtesy, ask permission to take notes during the meeting, but make sure your note-taking doesn't interfere with the flow of conversation. Listen attentively, jot down major ideas and underline key points. Monitor the length of your meeting and, as it reaches the agreed-upon completion time, make sure to respect the other person by politely inquiring if he or she still has time for any remaining questions.

 

Accentuate the Positive

At some point during the meeting, you will be asked to provide more information on your background and goals. Be upbeat and concise. Mention notable accomplishments from school, work or internships, and share your dreams for the future. However brief this portion of the meeting -- and it may last just five minutes -- be sure to make a positive impression so that the person with whom you meet will be eager to recommend you should he or she hear about a job opening. Discuss your achievements and career goals with enthusiasm and appropriate amounts of detail.

 

Follow Through

Within a day or two of your meeting, send a short thank-you note via regular mail. Express your appreciation for his or her time, and mention one or two points from your interview that you considered

The above is an excerpt from The Last Job Search Guide You'll Ever Need: How to Find and Get the Job or Internship of Your Dreams, which is available for sale for $19.85 in our bookstore or $27.00 at Amazon.com but for free to those who subscriber to our free career newsletter. This hot new book contains job search secrets of the most experienced, most knowledgeable and most respected career experts. Learn career planning, job hunting tools and tactics, interviewing, cover letter and resume writing (lots of samples!), networking, and how to find an internship. Written by 149 career experts. To receive a free copy, subscribe to our free career newsletter.

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