The Informational Interview Explained

In today's job market, the informational interview is one of the most powerful tools at your disposal. Whether you’re looking to break into a new field or just want to expand your professional network, this technique allows you to gather insights, build relationships, and uncover opportunities that traditional job applications may miss. Popularized in What Color is Your Parachute?, Richard N. Bolles emphasizes how valuable these meetings can be for anyone looking to take their career to the next level.

What is an Informational Interview?

An informational interview is a conversation with someone who works in a field, company, or role you’re interested in. It’s not a job interview, but rather an opportunity for you to gather information and advice about the industry or career path from someone with firsthand experience. These meetings can help you learn about a company’s culture, job trends, required skills, and industry challenges.

The most important thing to remember: you’re not asking for a job. You’re asking for knowledge.

Why Is It Important?

While job applications are often met with radio silence, informational interviews give you direct access to insiders. Here are some reasons why they are so important:

• Insight into the field: You get unfiltered information about what it’s like to work in a particular role or company.

• Expanding your network: Even if the person you speak with isn’t hiring, they can introduce you to others or keep you in mind for future opportunities.

• Increased visibility: Instead of your resume being buried in a pile, you become a person with a face, a voice, and a story. This human connection can set you apart.

• Refining your path: The advice you receive can help you clarify your own career goals, allowing you to focus on paths that align with your strengths and interests.

  
  

In short, informational interviews give you access to the hidden job market—roles that are never posted online but are filled through connections and word of mouth.

How to Conduct a Successful Informational Interview

1. Prepare Your Questions. The key to a productive informational interview is preparation. You’re asking for someone’s time, so make the most of it by crafting thoughtful questions in advance. Focus on topics that will give you deeper insight into the role or company. Here are a few examples:

   • What does a typical day look like in your role?

   • What are the most important skills for someone in this industry?

   • How did you get started in your career?

   • What challenges do you face in your role?

   • What advice would you give to someone looking to break into this field?

     
     

   Remember, your goal is to learn from them, not to impress them with your qualifications.

   
   

2. Be Respectful of Time. Time is valuable, especially for busy professionals. Make sure to start and end the meeting on time. If you’ve agreed to a 30-minute call, don’t let it drag on. Respecting their schedule shows professionalism and increases the likelihood they’ll want to help you again in the future.

   
   

3. Follow Up with Gratitude. After your meeting, send a personalized thank-you note. Mention something specific you learned or appreciated about the conversation. This not only shows good manners but also keeps the connection alive for future interactions.

   
   

4. Stay Curious. Don’t treat this as a one-and-done transaction. Keep the relationship warm by sharing relevant updates or industry news from time to time. Stay curious, keep learning, and use each conversation to refine your goals and approach.

   
   

Informational interviews are one of the most underutilized yet effective strategies for advancing your career. They offer valuable insights, build meaningful relationships, and often open doors that would otherwise remain closed.

Capivara is an AI networking platform that helps set up and guide informational interviews. Start growing today.