Networking with industry professionals can be tough, but one of the most effective ways to do so is through informational interviews. Conducting these interviews can provide valuable insights into career opportunities that you may not have been aware of. Additionally, talking to industry contacts can help you tailor your resume to fit specific job positions.
Finding Contacts for Informational Interviews
There are several ways to find contacts for informational interviews, such as LinkedIn, the Aggie Network, and CareerShift. Once you have identified potential contacts, you can reach out to them using LinkedIn connection requests or email.Reaching out to Potential Contacts
When reaching out to potential contacts, it is important to introduce yourself and explain why you are interested in speaking with them.Setting up the Interview
If your contact responds to your message, you can set up a time, date, and format for the interview. The interview can be conducted in person, over the phone, or through a video chat application such as Zoom. Before the interview, be sure to do your research on the work your contact does and prepare any questions you may have.Conducting the Interview
During the interview, start by thanking your contact for their time and explaining what interests you about their industry. You should also have a short, well-prepared introduction of your background and interests. Once the introductions are out of the way, focus on asking questions, listening to responses, and learning about the industry and company.Example Questions to Ask During the Interview
To make the most out of your informational interview, it is important to ask thoughtful questions. Here are some example questions to consider:- Looking back through your career, what key steps led you to where you are today?
- If you were starting your career today, where would you focus your attention?
- What characteristics/skills make for a good [job title]?
- Where do you see evolving needs or areas of emerging opportunities?
- How would you describe the culture of your organization?
- What can I do to make myself more marketable in your industry?
- What do you like most about working for your company?
- What advice would you share to help someone like me prepare?
- What should I be learning that many students don’t think about?
- Who else should I be talking to?
- Do you know anybody that needs help?
Tips for Conducting a Successful Interview
During the interview, it is important to keep in mind the following tips:- Avoid asking questions that can be easily found through Google.
- Never argue with the opinions or experiences of your contact.
- Never ask about job openings during an informational interview.
- Respect your contact's time and perspectives; this is a moment to learn and not sell yourself.
- Take notes and show genuine interest in what your contact has to say.
- Following up after the interview