How to Use an Information Interview to Get Job Search Leads

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By David Sarokin
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Always Shake Hands in an Interview

An information interview (or "informational interview", as it's often called) can be a very effective tool for landing a job. It's usually not a fast track way to a new job, but it can open a lot of doors that may not have opened otherwise. An information interview is simply an opportunity for you to find out more about a company or organization that you're interested in working for. It's a way for you to get to know individuals in the company, and a way for them to get to know you. If direct job-hunting isn't producing the leads and opportunities you need, then this is a great alternative approach on your career path. Here's how to set-up an information interview.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Step 1

**Zero In** Before setting up an informational interview, you have to have an idea of who you want to talk to. This means targeting a company, and within that company (or other organization), targeting the particular area of operations that is of interest to you. For instance, it's not enough to think "I'd like to know more about IBM". You have to zero in on which aspect of IBM's operations -- sales, research, marketing, customer service -- is of most interest to you, and begin your search from there.
Step 2

**Face to Face, or Phone** If you want to schedule an in-person information interview, then of course, you'll need to be able to travel to the site in question. A phone interview opens up a much broader territory, but is also less personal and less memorable than a direct sit-down interview. Decide which would be best for you.
Step 3

**Network Like Crazy** Someone you know -- a friend, family member, colleague, school buddy...someone -- knows somebody at the company you're interested in. Even if that person is not the right department for you, it's still a foot in the door. So ask around, and email around, and find out who knows who.
Step 4

**Don't be Afraid to Cold Call** OK, so I was wrong. Nobody you know actually has a contact in the company you're interested in. No problem. Find out the company's phone number (that's what Google is for) and ask for the department you're interested in. Eventually, you'll wind up on the phone with the right person, or at least, someone close enough to the right person to make things happen.
Step 5

**Ask** You're on the phone, finally, with the Director of Marketing, or the Senior Researcher, or the Corporate Counsel, or whoever you wanted to talk to. Or perhaps you're just on the phone with the scheduler for one of these people. Now' s the moment. Ask to schedule an information interview. Give a bit of context... you just graduated... thinking about a career change... recently moved nearby... always been interested in ___ and would like to find out more... so-and-so suggested I call... Whatever works for your situation. Your contact may be glad to set up an information interview. Or they may not (it's not everyone's cup of tea). But if they seem unwilling, ask who else in the company would be an appropriate person to speak with. Let them steer you in the right direction.
Step 6

**Be Professional** Once your information interview is scheduled, do it right. Dress appropriately, have some questions prepared that you'd like to discuss, be on your best manners, and don't go asking for a job... this isn't the right moment.
Step 7

**Keep That Door Open** Be sure to express your appreciation and your continued interest, and ask if it's OK to get back in touch if you have more questions. Send a thank you note. Follow up in the manner that seems most appropriate, but don't become a pest. Your common sense and your own people skills will be the best guide as to your next steps.
Step 8

See Resources, directly below, for links to more information. Also check the 'Related Articles' and 'More Articles Like This' features elsewhere on this page.