Secrets Revealed: How to Score an Informational Interview

The Power of Informational Interviews and How to Score One

As a job seeking professional, you know how essential it is to have a network of contacts who can share job leads, insights, and career advice. One essential tool that can help you build such a network is the informational interview.

An informational interview is an informal meeting, usually over the phone or in-person, with a professional in your desired field. The purpose of the meeting is to gain insights into the job or industry, learn about the work culture and get advice on how to pursue a particular career path.

So how can you score such an interview? Here are some secrets to help you:

1. Be Clear About What You Want

The first step in scoring an informational interview is to clearly define what you are looking for. What kind of information do you need? What specific questions do you want to ask? Answering these questions will help you identify the relevant professionals you should be targeting.

2. Use LinkedIn to Your Advantage

LinkedIn is a powerful tool for networking, and it can help you identify and connect with professionals in your desired field. Look for professionals who have job titles similar to what you’re targeting and send them a brief personalized message outlining your request for an informational interview.

3. Tailor Your Request

When approaching a potential interviewee, it’s essential to customize your request and make it clear why you’re interested in speaking with them specifically. This could be based on their job title, their company, or their expertise in a particular area. Avoid sending generic requests as they are unlikely to yield any results.

4. Be Persistent But Respectful

In many cases, you may not receive a response to your initial request, but this doesn’t mean you should give up. Be persistent, but always demonstrate respect for the interviewee’s time. A polite follow-up message after a week or so can help get things moving.

5. Be Prepared for the Interview

Once you’ve secured an informational interview, it’s essential to be well prepared. Research the interviewee’s company, the industry, and the specific job role. Prepare a list of well-thought-out questions that reflect your research and personal career goals. Always remember to thank your interviewee for their time and insights.

Conclusion

In summary, scoring an informational interview requires a clear understanding of what you want, a robust networking strategy that leverages tools such as LinkedIn, customized requests, persistence, and respect for the interviewee’s time. Remember, an informational interview is an opportunity to build a relationship with a professional who can provide valuable insights into your desired career path. So always be professional, respectful and grateful for any advice you receive.