informational interviewing

Shariya Ali

what is it?

it is not a job interview…

…it is an interview with a person working in a career

you would like to learn more about.

“An informational interview is an interview conducted to collect information about a job, career field,

industry or company.”

• more information than printed material or company website

• opportunity for an inside view of a job unmatched by other sources

advantages

• directed by your questions.

• communicates first hand experiences of someone in the occupation

stress-free interviewing

questions can be asked that aren’t strategic during a first

interview • i.e. salary // benefits // vacation

discuss what is done on a day-to-day basis and relate it to your own

interests

you are the one in control.

builds self-confidence and improves your ability to handle a job interview.

helpful tipstake notes

regard the interview as a business appointment

conduct yourself in a professional manner.

be on time

do not dress too casually or be overdressed

regular business attire is appropriate.

…and the thank-you note

questionsWhat are the duties

performed during a

typical day?

What kinds of courses

are most valuable in

order to gain skills

necessary for success in

this occupation?

What kind of

work/internship

experience would

employers look for in a

job applicant?

What are the demands

and frustrations that

typically accompany this

type of work?

What has been the

advisor's career path

from college to

present?

What are the satisfying

and dissatisfying aspects

of the advisor’s work?

good luck! Works Cited

Doyle, Alison. "Informational Interview - Informational Interview Definition." About.com Job Searching - About.com Job Search & Employment Guide - Jobs, Resumes, Letters. Web. 22 July 2010. <http://jobsearch.about.com/od/infointerviews/g/infointerview.htm>.

Doyle, Alison. "Informational Interview Questions." About.com Job Searching - About.com Job Search & Employment Guide - Jobs, Resumes, Letters. Web. 22 July 2010. <http://jobsearch.about.com/od/infointerviews/a/infointervquest.htm>.