How to Set Up an Informational Interview

The best jobs are filled by word of mouth. Informational interviews are an excellent way to find out about the perfect job for you.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Address Books
• Printers
• Telephones
• Bonded Paper
• Personal Organizers
• Computers
• résumé software

1. Gather the names of industry leaders from recent news articles, magazines, contacts, Internet searches or friendly headhunters.
2. Write a short, concise letter to the person you would like to interview, clearly spelling out who you are and what you want.
3. Indicate at the end of the letter that you will contact the person on a certain day, at a certain time.
4. Call precisely at the appointed time. You may speak with your target or his or her assistant.
5. If you speak to the prospective interviewee, tell him or her that you will probably need 30 minutes, and give an overview of what you want to discuss.
6. Research the topics of interest and the interviewee's background thoroughly.

Tips & Warnings

• People like to talk about themselves, so be flattering without being obsequious.
• Drop names of relevant contacts in moderation.

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