Networking: Conducting an Informational Interview
An informational interview is an informal conversation you initiate with a professional in a career, industry, or company you are considering. Informational interviews also expand your network of contacts in your field of interest for future opportunities.
Questions to ask during an informational interview:
- What specific trends are affecting the industry/profession?
- What do you enjoy about working for your company/organization?
- What are the greatest opportunities facing the industry/profession?
- What are the greatest challenges facing the industry/profession?
- What is the professional culture like at your company/organization?
- What associations do you belong to or recommend I look into?
- What publications, blogs, websites, or listservs would be a good resource for me?
- What advice do you have for me?
- Who else would you suggest I contact?
For more information on networking, please refer to the Job Search Booklet.