4 answers
Sophie
Student
2
Questions
Asked
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How do you ask for informational interviews?
I have been told that asking for brief informational interviews from connections is a good way to learn more about industries. What I don't know is how to ask for them. Is there a preferred channel of communication? What level of formality is expected? Are there expected social rules I haven't forseen?
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2 answers
Johnson Tran
Tutor
59
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Johnson’s Answer
Hi Sophie,
Informational interviews are much easier than job interviews, so don't worry about being perfect. Just respect their time and be clear about why you're reaching out.
A short email or LinkedIn message works well. Introduce yourself, mention your interest, and ask if they have 15-20 minutes to talk about their experience.
Try something like:
"Hi [Name], I'm a student exploring [industry] and found your profile. Your career path is fascinating—would you have 15-20 minutes to chat in the next few weeks? I'd love to ask a few questions about how you started."
Here are some tips:
- Keep your message brief.
- Be flexible with scheduling.
- Prepare some questions in advance.
- Don't ask for a job or internship right away.
- Send a thank-you note afterward.
Most people enjoy discussing their work if you show genuine interest. If someone doesn't respond, don't worry. Networking is about reaching out to many people; you only need a few good conversations to learn a lot.
Good luck! Getting comfortable with this now will really help when you're ready to start your career search.
Informational interviews are much easier than job interviews, so don't worry about being perfect. Just respect their time and be clear about why you're reaching out.
A short email or LinkedIn message works well. Introduce yourself, mention your interest, and ask if they have 15-20 minutes to talk about their experience.
Try something like:
"Hi [Name], I'm a student exploring [industry] and found your profile. Your career path is fascinating—would you have 15-20 minutes to chat in the next few weeks? I'd love to ask a few questions about how you started."
Here are some tips:
- Keep your message brief.
- Be flexible with scheduling.
- Prepare some questions in advance.
- Don't ask for a job or internship right away.
- Send a thank-you note afterward.
Most people enjoy discussing their work if you show genuine interest. If someone doesn't respond, don't worry. Networking is about reaching out to many people; you only need a few good conversations to learn a lot.
Good luck! Getting comfortable with this now will really help when you're ready to start your career search.
Thanks. I feel more confident to reach out now. Initially when I did it, I feared that I was asking for too much, like their trade secret or something
Layo
TRAVIS UPCHURCH
Federal Contract Admin
333
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
TRAVIS’s Answer
Linkedin or Career Fairs.