The Power of Informational Interviews: How to Land Hidden Job Opportunities
1. What Is an Informational Interview?
An informational interview is a casual, career-focused conversation where you ask an industry professional for insights into their role, company, or industry—not a formal job interview.
Key Benefits of Informational Interviews
- Gain Industry Insights: Learn about trends, challenges, and opportunities in your target field.
- Expand Your Network: Build relationships with professionals who can refer you to roles or offer advice.
- Discover Hidden Opportunities: Many job openings are shared internally or through personal networks before they’re advertised.
Pro Tip: Approach informational interviews with curiosity and a willingness to learn, rather than focusing solely on job prospects.
2. How to Identify the Right People to Interview
Reaching out to the right individuals increases the value of your informational interviews.
Where to Find Potential Contacts
- LinkedIn: Search for professionals in your desired industry or role and filter by location or company.
- Professional Associations: Join industry-specific groups or associations to connect with experienced professionals.
- Alumni Networks: Reach out to alumni from your school who work in your target field.
Pro Tip: Look for individuals with job titles that align with your career goals or those working at companies you admire.
3. Reaching Out: Crafting the Perfect Request
A well-written message increases the likelihood of getting a positive response.
How to Structure Your Request
- Introduce Yourself: Mention your name, current role, and interest in their field or company.
- Be Specific: Explain why you’re reaching out and what you hope to learn.
- Keep It Brief: Respect their time by keeping your message concise.
Example Message: “Hi [Name], I’m [Your Name], a [Your Role/Field] interested in transitioning into [Industry/Role]. I came across your profile on LinkedIn and was impressed by your experience at [Company Name]. Would you be open to a 20-minute conversation to share insights into your role and career path? I’d greatly appreciate your advice as I explore opportunities in [Industry]. Thank you for considering my request!”
4. Preparing for the Conversation
Preparation is key to making the most of an informational interview.
How to Prepare
- Research Their Background: Review their LinkedIn profile or company website to understand their career path and current role.
- Prepare Questions: Focus on open-ended questions about their experiences, industry trends, and advice for someone in your position.
- Clarify Your Goals: Be ready to share a brief overview of your background and what you’re hoping to learn.
Sample Questions:
- “What does a typical day in your role look like?”
- “What skills are most important for success in your field?”
- “How did you break into this industry?”
- “What advice would you give to someone transitioning into this field?”
5. Conducting the Informational Interview
Approach the conversation with professionalism and a genuine interest in learning.
Tips for a Successful Meeting
- Be Punctual: Arrive on time, whether it’s an in-person meeting or a virtual call.
- Listen Actively: Focus on their responses and ask follow-up questions to dive deeper into their insights.
- Be Respectful of Time: Stick to the agreed duration, unless they invite you to continue.
Pro Tip: Take notes during the conversation to capture key takeaways and follow-up actions.
FAQ
How do I ask for an informational interview without seeming pushy?
Be polite, concise, and respectful of their time in your request. Focus on learning rather than asking for a job.
What should I wear to an informational interview?
Dress professionally, even for virtual interviews, to make a good impression.
How long should an informational interview last?
Aim for 20-30 minutes unless the other person offers to extend the conversation.
What if I don't hear back after reaching out?
Send a polite follow-up after a week, but don't take it personally if they're unavailable.
Can informational interviews really lead to job opportunities?
Yes, they often lead to referrals, advice, or connections that can help you land a role in the hidden job market.