In addition to meeting people and asking them if they have any job information, there is another step you can take — you can request an informational interview.

The purpose of an informational interview — or discovery call, which may sound less intimidating — is to learn more about the position, industry, or the organization where your contact works, as well as to increase your connections and visibility. 

As a career coach and resume writer, I’m often asked about informational interviews. Here are my answers to the top 5 questions:

#5 — Who (and How) Do I Ask for an Informational Interview? 

When you meet a contact socially or at a network event, usually the conversation is brief and light. Simply ask if you might call or email to set up an informational interview. It’s that easy!

The online version can be easy, too. Search LinkedIn for someone:

• Who works at a company you would like to work for, and
• Who is equal to or one position higher than your desired position.

Then engage with their content on LinkedIn in a supportive and friendly way by liking, commenting, or sharing. Request an interview via LinkedIn DM or email. Use Hunter.io to find their company email address

Here’s a sample introduction message:

#4 — How Do I Make the Most of an Informational Interview?

Ask good questions! What do you really need to know?

My top 7 favorite questions for informational interviews are:

1. What is most rewarding/challenging about your position?
2. How can someone prepare themselves to take on a position like yours?
3. What skills do you rely on the most?
4. Are there any industry associations or sources for professional development I should know about?
5. Is there anyone else in this field that you think I should speak to?
6. Have I missed any questions you think I should ask?
7. Do you mind if we stay in touch?

You can find dozens more good questions to ask here. To respect your new connection’s time, be sure to prioritize your questions and ask only a few. 

#3 — What Do I Do Before an Informational Interview?

Once upon a time, informational meetings were held at your contact’s place of business. Post-pandemic, they’re more likely to be held via phone, Zoom, or even direct message.

Show up as you would for a job interview:

• Dress and act professionally
• Be on time
• Be prepared to set the agenda and lead the meeting
• Have questions ready, and
• Bring a notepad or device to take notes.

Do your homework beforehand, so you don’t ask questions that are answered on the company website or elsewhere on the internet.

Your contact is doing you a favor, so make efficient use of your time, be gracious, don’t overstay, and thank them. Then, for good measure, send a thank you note too.

#2 — What Do I Do After an Informational Interview?

As always, ask if there is any way you can reciprocate.

Then check in every so often (perhaps monthly) to maintain the relationship by:

• Offering any services they might appreciate
• Discussing recent industry developments, and
• Thanking them again for having met with you.

#1 — Do I Ask for a Job in an Informational Interview?

Nope! Remember, the goal of your informational interview is to learn:

• What’s important to employers
• Which skills you might need to add to your resume, and
• More about the job market

You’re not likely to get a job directly through an informational interview, so don’t risk the potential relationship by forcing a job request.

But if you’re able to be natural and forge a genuine connection, your new connection might just connect you to a great opportunity one day. 

Your mission (if you choose to accept it)…

Schedule and Attend Informational Interviews

Set up at least two interviews per week.

Remember, since you’re not asking for work, the stakes are lower. Still, behave professionally and act as if it is a job interview (but without the pressure).

Informational interviews are low stakes but can have a high impact because they’re multifunctional — you build relationships, gain knowledge, and improve your interview skills, all at once.