Bryn Mawr Haverford OCEAN Students Alumnae/i Employers Events
Basically, informational interviewing is personally gathering information from a professional in a field of interest. It is also a terrific vehicle for networking. It is critical that you not be perceived as asking for help to find a job!!!!! Instead, make it clear that you are asking for "career information and advice" to either help you to determine your ultimate interest in pursuing a particular field OR to help you to conduct a more informed job search.
How you ask for this advice can make all the difference in the response you will get. You need to frame the query in a manner which allows someone to feel that they have the ability to offer advice even if they have no idea if their organization or others are hiring.
"Having established an interest in 'X field', I am trying to learn as much as possible about the field from experienced professionals. Would you be willing to talk with me about your experience and trends in the industry and offer advice for preparing for and/or securing entry into the field?"
"I had an internship last summer in 'X field' and really enjoyed it. Now I would like to learn more about the field. Would you be willing to talk to me, share your experience and provide some advice about how I might pursue other related opportunities?"
You will learn the most and have the potential to make the best impression if you can conduct the informational interview at your contact's workplace. If this is not possible, it is fine to meet elsewhere or to conduct the interview by phone. In some cases, especially if a contact is overseas, email may be the best option. But try to use the method which gives you the most information; the tone of voice can make a lot of difference in how you "hear" a piece of advice.