Informational interviewing is an excellent tool for gathering information about a career field in which you may be interested. The purpose of the interview is not to ask for a job, but to help you decide whether a particular career field or position is right for you. Informational interviews can also provide excellent networking opportunities and important personal contacts. In general, experienced professionals will be flattered by your interest and happy to talk to you about their career experience.

Even though you are not interviewing for a job, it is important to treat the interview as a serious, professional meeting. You should be appropriately dressed, properly prepared and ready to listen as well as talk. The most important thing to remember about the informational interview is that you are looking for career information, guidance and career contacts. Keep in mind that you are not asking for a job, although the person contacted will know that obtaining employment is your goal.

Whom do You Interview?

• The Career Contact and Alumni Network is composed of alumni, employers, parents, students and friends, representing diverse career fields nationwide, who have offered to share their career experiences with students and alumni.
• Often the best, most inspiring advice comes from listening to the personal experiences of others. Communication with network professionals can provide realistic information about career options, employment conditions and job responsibilities. In addition to information about their careers, these network members may lend insight or advice regarding the city in which they live, and they may be able to refer you to other contacts in the industry.

Monstertrak Career Contact and Alumni Network

• Faculty
• Former and current employers
• Your personal network of family, friends, and acquaintances (friends of parents, parents of classmates, neighbors, former teachers, etc.).

How to Arrange for the Interview

You can approach your potential contact in writing by mail or e-mail (see the Cover Letter Guide). Make it clear that you are asking for career information and guidance—not a job—and politely request approximately 30–45 minutes of their time. If it is impractical for you to meet in person, you might want to suggest a phone interview. Do not send a résumé at this time. If you do not receive a response after 7–10 days, follow-up (once) with a phone call at their place of business. Please do not contact alumnae/i at home.

Career Exploration Questions

• How do you spend a typical day or week? Is there such a thing as a typical day?
• How did you get into this line of work? Was yours a typical career path? What other paths did you consider?
• What kinds of skills are needed in your job?
• What is your work environment/future like? How would you describe your colleagues?
• What are some of the things you like most/least about your job?
• What kind of work schedule does this career require (overtime, weekends, freelancing, travel, etc.)?
• What is a typical entry-level position? What about starting salaries? What advancement opportunities exist beyond the entry level?
• How do you like your overall career and lifestyle?
• What advice would you offer me if I chose to pursue a career in this area?

Career Preparation/Job Search Questions

• What kind of education/training does one need to get into this field? Can you recommend specific graduate programs?
• Is on-the-job training available/required?
• How are job openings publicized in this field? What trade or professional journals do you read?
• How do most people get hired in this organization? Are some methods more effective than others?
• Do you offer internships?
• Are candidates for full-time employment considered from the intern pool?
• Are there opportunities for part-time or freelance work here?
• How competitive is the entry-level job market in this geographical area?
• I'm interested in relocating to ______. Do you know of anyone in your industry that I could talk to there?
• Can you think of other jobs that would enable me to combine my skills in _____ and my interests in ______?
• What is the employment outlook in this field? How is this industry doing? What are the emerging jobs in this career area?
• Whom would you recommend I contact for more information?

Follow-Up

Before you leave, make sure to obtain the names and numbers of other potential contacts. You may also leave a copy of your résumé if it seems appropriate. After the interview, send a thank-you note immediately. Try to be specific about how the conversation was of value to you. As you continue your career search and your list of persons in the field expands, make sure to keep in touch with your earlier contacts