From the course: A Career Strategist's Guide to Getting a Job

Use informational interviews to your advantage

From the course: A Career Strategist's Guide to Getting a Job

Use informational interviews to your advantage

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- Do you have a decent idea of what you want to do next, but maybe aren't super clear yet on the specifics? If so, you might want to think about scheduling a couple of informational interviews. Informational interviews are exactly what they sound like, quick meetings designed to help you gather information about a job, a company, a person, or all three. They can also help you narrow-in on what your ideal role is, and figure out what skills you'll need to put front and center on your resume as you position yourself for that job. Now notice, they're not called get me an interview interviews, or shove my resume in front of your face interviews. This is a common mistake, and one that can make somebody who has agreed to participate feel a little bit cornered or even resentful. Now, this isn't to say that an informational interview won't lead to an interview, or help you build valuable allies at companies of interest, but you should go into them prepped with questions, genuine interest, and with your only agenda being gather information. Also, be sure and remember that you're the interviewer in this case. So, assuming that you requested this meeting, plan on taking the lead. What questions should you ask? Well, that depends on the person, of course, but you certainly can and should ask her about her background. How did she break into this field? How did she land her current role? What does she enjoy most about her work, and what are her biggest challenges? You could also ask this question: How might someone like me break into this company or industry? As in, does that person have some hints, tips, or lessons learned that might help you put your best foot forward? And then the last question I recommend that you ask at every informational interview is this: Based on our conversation, can you think of one or two other people I should chat with? This question is going to help you move momentum forward, dig further, and help you fine-tune your strategy and approach. And just maybe even help you land a job.

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