Informational Interviews

CUSSW Office of Career & Leadership Development

What is an informational interview?

The informational interview is one of the most effective methods for gaining more detailed information about a particular career. It is an opportunity for you to ask the questions and gain a better understanding about a career, industry and/or company. An interview can take place over the phone or in person. Ideally, the best place to meet is at the mentor’s place of employment.

Why should I conduct an informational interview?

To explore careers and clarify your career goals

To discover employment opportunities that are not advertised

To expand your professional network

To build confidence for job interviews

To access the most up-to-date career information

To identify your professional strengths and weaknesses

This is a chance for you to ask questions, gather advice, and obtain information. It is not designed to get a job. (But it can develop contacts that will later be of assistance)

How do I prepare for an informational interview?

Know Yourself
Determine what you need in a mentor before the initial interview. Figure out what information would be most beneficial as you explore your career options.

Know the Mentor/Individual
If they are a CUSSW alumna, make sure that you are familiar with the mentor’s academic program and department CUSSW. Be sure to have a clear understanding of his/her current position.

Know the Organization
Research details about the organization in which the individual works. You can find out specific information using company websites, annual reports, directories, newspapers and other professionals in the field.

Be Professional
Present yourself in a businesslike manner. Allow the person being interviewed to do most of the talking. Do not dominate the conversation. Be positive and assertive – not overly flattering or obnoxiously aggressive. Be courteous and keep a time limit of 20 minutes unless the contact agrees to more time.

What kinds of questions do I ask?

About the Career Field
What types of positions are most often found in this field?
What are some general skills that are needed to perform well in this field?
Do you recommend any specific training or education?
What are some of the disadvantages of this field?
What is a typical entry level in this field? What is the current outlook for entry-level positions?
What is the future of this field in terms of new and expanding opportunities?

About the Job/Organization
What are some of the short and long term goals of the organization such as growth, new products or services and expansion of facilities?
What is the philosophy of the organization?
What types of training programs are available?
Can you describe the typical entry-level position in the organization?
Can you explain a typical career path from entry level to top management in this organization?
What are the major responsibilities of your position? Specific duties?
What types of personal qualities are necessary for this occupation?
What is the level of pressure on the job?
What is the optimal level of performance to achieve career success?

About the Individual
How did you become interested in this field?
What was your career path from college to present?
What do you like best about your job/career?
What do you like least about your job/career?
If you had to do it over again, would you choose the same career? What would you change?
What do you think of my background so far in terms of entering this field? What would you suggest to improve my qualifications?
Before you end the interview, think about your original objective. Has it been met? In your closing, you should pull everything together. Close on a happy note. Thank the person for his/her time and knowledge. Let the person know that the information they have shared is valuable and the ways in which it will influence future decisions. Ask for permission to contact him/her again if you find a need for further information. If you have met in person, ask for a business card.

What do I do after the interview?

Send a thank you note within 24 hours of the informational interview. Thank the mentor again for his/her time and generosity. You may want to maintain the relationship through periodic contacts. The best way to do this is let the person know of your progress on a regular basis. Encourage the mentor to keep in touch with you and promise to keep him/her informed of your plans. Always acknowledge how appreciative you are of their help.