Informational interviews deliver much more than information!
An informational interview is an important networking tool that can help you gain valuable career knowledge while connecting you with professional resources. How does an informational interview work? It’s simple! You arrange a meeting with an individual who works in a position, at a company, or within an industry that interests you, and then you have a conversation with that person who will provide information and advice in response to your questions and curiosity. Naturally, informational interviews will allow you to access information; that’s how this type of interview is defined. However, it’s important to realize that there are many other benefits to conducting informational interviews, many of which that can help support your career development. Key benefits include the establishment of network connections, development of professional skills, and advancement of your career vision.
In order to reap the benefits of an informational interview, it’s important to engage a professional that will provide helpful and relevant information in key areas that interest you. This form of interviewing is different from a traditional job interview in that you are not being considered for a specific position, and the goal of the interview is to gain information. As a result, it’s a fantastic opportunity to ask questions that relate to your curiosity and what you are looking for in a potential career. As you connect with professionals (who you will identify via your network, on LinkedIn, or through targeted research), you will also build your network! By developing and maintaining these network connections, you establish relationships that allow you to stay connected with professional in your field of interest and also access jobs in the hidden job market (jobs that are acquired through relationships and referrals). Why is that important? Experts estimate that 60% to 80% of all jobs are acquired through the hidden job market, not through the widespread method of online job search. Do you see why network connections and relationship building are so important in career development?
As you conduct informational interviews, you’ll develop critical professional skills such as interviewing, verbal communication, and confidence. Interview experience, whether it’s via the informational or traditional method, is important. The more you practice elements in the interview process such as interacting with professionals and both asking and answering questions, the more comfortable you will feel with the process. You will also sharpen your communication skills and gain confidence. Part of that confidence will come from familiarity with the process, and part will come from gaining knowledge that’s important within your desired career field. You’ll be able to talk the talk and walk the walk, which will help prepare you for future job interviews and your career.
As you gain knowledge through informational interviews, it’s important to take what you learn and apply it in order to develop your vision. Just knowing something is good, but figuring out how to use that information in order to define and then achieve your personal and professional goals is critical. First, identify your skills, values, talents, and interests. Then apply that to what you learn through informational interviews to create a career strategy. This can include the kind of work you want to do, where you want to do it, who you want to do it with, and how you want to do it.
Remember, the purpose of an informational interview is not to ask for a job, it’s to learn! As you utilize this valuable networking tool to gain information, take advantage of opportunities to develop network connections, professional skills, and your career vision.
