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Career Corner: For College Grads: How to Set Up an Informational Interview

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.

If you’re young and just starting out in your career, I highly recommend taking the initiative and seeking out an informational interview as a stepping stone to a great career doing something you really love. You’d be surprised how many young career seekers don’t bother to set something like this up, and miss some really terrific opportunities because of it.

Step 1 – How to get the informational interview ball rolling:

Begin by speaking to someone in your social circle who already has a foot in the door. Also scan online for companies that appeal to you, and then ask if you can schedule an informational interview with someone in their office. You might even ask for an interview with a family member who works in a position or with a company that appeals to you. Don’t be afraid to ask, you’ll never know unless you ask.

Hallie Crawford
Career Seekers Career Coach