How to Conduct an Informational Interview
Once you've arranged an informational interview, prepare as if it were a job interview.
Things You'll Need
- Briefcases
- Address Books
- Women's Watches
- Black Ink Pen
- Business Cards
- Personal Organizers
- Portfolios
- Spiral Notebooks
Instructions
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1
Do your homework. Prepare 10 relevant, clear questions. Asking for subjective answers is fine if the knowledge is within the person's area of expertise.
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2
Arrive promptly and be prepared to wait.
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3
Set the meeting in motion right away by introducing yourself, explaining your goals for the meeting and reassuring the person that you'll keep the interview short.
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4
Ask questions about the industry's trends and forecasts, as well as questions about the educational background of the person you're interviewing.
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5
Refrain from asking for a job, though you can ask about internships.
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6
Find out how your particular experiences fit into a career in your field of interest.
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7
Wrap up the interview within 30 minutes.
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8
Leave a résumé if you're interested in an internship, or if the person asks for one.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Leave an informational interview with names and numbers of more people to contact. Networking often leads to jobs.
