Interviewing for Information by Dr. Steven Del Chiaro Presented to San Jose State University Opportunities in Psychology Spring, 2008

What is an Informational Interview? An information interview is an appointment that you schedule with a particular individual for the purpose of gaining current, regional, and/or specialized information from an "insider" point of view. A meeting that you schedule with practicing professionals for the purpose of learning more about their job. A way to quickly validating or dispelling what you have heard or assumed about a particular line of work or organization. An opportunity to enable you to expand your network of contacts and gain additional interview experience.

Setting Up an Informational Interview 1. Identify people who have jobs that you find intriguing and inspiring. 2. Send each person an introductory , phone call or letter. 3. Request 20 to 30 minutes of the person's time at their convenience. 4. Be clear that you are seeking information only -- not a job. 5. Request a face-to-face meeting at his or her workplace.

Preparing for an Informational Interview Make sure you have read up on your interviewee and his or her organization. Visit the company's Web site, paying particular attention to the "About" section, staff biographies and the company's latest press releases. your interview questions to the interviewee a couple of days prior to the interview.

Formulate a list of about five open-ended questions that you intend to ask. A few examples might include: How did you get started in the field? What do you like most/least about your job? What is your typical day like? What emerging trends do you see affecting your job or industry in the next five years? What skill sets and abilities will I need to be successful in this line of work?

Conducting an Informational Interview Conduct your informational interview as you would any important business meeting.  Get to your appointment a few minutes early and BE COURTEOUS to everyone that you meet -- secretary, receptionist, etc. If you would like to document your conversation, ask your interviewee if he or she minds if you take notes. Begin your informational interview by briefly summarizing (preferably in 90 seconds or less) your background and explaining why you are interested in the particular field. When asking questions, listen closely to the person's responses and make eye contact. Before ending the conversation, ask the person for suggestions of other professionals who would be beneficial to interview.  Do not exceed your requested time, but be prepared to stay longer in case the contact indicates a willingness to talk longer.

Building the Relationship... After the interview Immediately send an thanking the person for his or her time. Follow up with a handwritten note that goes into greater detail about the information or advice you gained from the meeting. Keep your interviewee apprised of developments in your career.

Want More Information About Networking and Interviewing for Information? Feel free to contact me: Steve Del Chiaro