Informational interviews are a fantastic way to connect with professionals in your field or an industry you’re interested in. They allow you to gather insights, ask questions, and, most importantly, build your network. By engaging in these conversations, you not only learn valuable information but also create connections that can lead to future opportunities. Below are three practical examples of how to use informational interviews as a networking strategy.
Imagine you’re currently working in marketing but are curious about transitioning into the tech industry. An informational interview can help you understand the nuances of this new field.
You decide to reach out to a friend of a friend who is a product manager at a tech company. You explain your interest in the industry and ask if they would be willing to meet for a coffee chat.
During the meeting, you ask questions about their career path, the skills they find most valuable, and what challenges they face in their role. This conversation not only gives you insight into the tech world but also allows you to gain advice on how to tailor your skills for this transition.
You thank them for their time and mention your interest in staying connected. A few weeks later, you follow up with a personalized email, which helps strengthen your relationship.
You’re a recent graduate looking to start your career in finance. You’ve identified a few professionals in your desired field who are doing impressive work, and you decide to conduct informational interviews to find a potential mentor.
You reach out to a senior analyst at a financial firm through LinkedIn, introducing yourself and stating your admiration for their work. You request a 20-30 minute chat to learn more about their career journey and seek advice on entering the field.
During your conversation, you ask about their day-to-day tasks and the skills they believe are critical for success in finance. As the discussion unfolds, you express your eagerness to learn and ask if they would be open to providing guidance in the future.
After the interview, you send a thoughtful message thanking them and highlighting key takeaways. You also mention your interest in keeping in touch, which opens the door for future mentoring opportunities.
You’ve recently moved to a new city and want to expand your professional network. Informational interviews can be a great way to meet new people and learn about local industry trends.
You identify several local professionals in your field using networking platforms like LinkedIn. You send personalized messages explaining your recent move and interest in learning about the local industry landscape. After a few responses, you set up a few coffee meetings with individuals who have agreed to share their insights.
During these chats, you discuss the local job market, company cultures, and even ask for recommendations on networking events or professional groups to join. You make sure to take notes on their suggestions and express your interest in staying connected on LinkedIn.