How to Prepare for an Informational Phone Interview With HR

You've worked your contacts and managed to get an informational interview with the human resources department. Even an informational phone interview is a solid start, and it's an excellent lead in getting a job. Follow these steps to properly prepare for an informational phone interview with HR.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Do research on the basics of the industry, company, interviewer and specific position. Read the company's website, especially the "About" section, press release section and staff biographies. This background research will help you determine more questions for your informational interview.

2. List about 10 or 20 open-ended questions to ask the interviewer. You could ask about the experience, skills or education needed for the career. You could also ask about the rewards and challenges of the job and emerging industry trends.

3. Prepare a 3-minute summary of your career experience, relating your background to the skills required of the next position.

4. Review and organize your agenda in logical order. The phone informational interview should be natural--not stiff or seemingly rehearsed. While you may not wind up sticking with a strict agenda, it is good to have an agenda or outline of the topics you want to discuss.

5. Rehearse or review your notes. Remember to put the other person at ease; it's not an actual interview. Keep your tone casual, friendly and professional. Start the call by thanking her for her time and introducing yourself.

Tips & Warnings

• Even though it is not a job interview, be prompt and professional. Where possible, mention facts or ask questions that show that you have researched the company or industry to demonstrate your serious interest. Prioritize your questions and keep the phone call brief--10 to 20 minutes.
• Do not ask for a job; the purpose is to get information and leads for jobs.

Resources

• Career Builder: How Does an Informational Interview Work?
• Best-Job-Interview: Informational Interview Preparation

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