Thinking that you’d like to set up an informational interview in your chosen field? Good for you. An informational interview is not like a typical interview; in this case, there is no “want ad” to answer and no open position to fill. It’s simply a way to make contact with someone who works at a company that interests you. It’s a method of getting your name out there while learning more about careers in your industry.
Last week, we discussed Step 1 (How to get the informational interview ball rolling) and Step 2 (Prepare in advance). Here’s the last step:
Step 3 – Make initial contact.
When you feel ready to make contact, try sending an email first so they’re not caught off guard by a random phone call. If you can’t locate their email address, then the call is okay. Present yourself professionally; tell them something like, “My name is so-and-so and I’m interested in learning more about (X type of) careers at your firm. I’d love it if we could set up a time to talk.” Of course, it helps to draft a couple of practice emails or do a few test-runs of your phone message before sending it out there.
For more information on informational interviews and other tips for your career search, check out my free career articles page right here.
