Informational Interviews: Learning From Insiders
An informational interview is a short conversation with someone whose experience you want to learn from. It is one of the most effective networking tools: it builds a real relationship, gives you insider insight, and often leads to opportunities, all without directly asking for a job. This lesson teaches how to request, conduct, and follow up on one.
What it is (and is not)
An informational interview is:
- A 20-minute conversation to learn from someone's experience.
- A relationship-building meeting.
- A chance to ask insightful questions about a role, company, or field.
It is not:
- A request for a job.
- A sales pitch.
- A favor you extract and then disappear.
The magic: when you ask for insight (not a job), people enjoy helping. And relationships built on genuine curiosity often lead to opportunities naturally.
Requesting the interview
Reach out with a short, specific, low-pressure request:
Hi [name], I've followed your work at [company] and I'm really interested in [field/role]. Would you be open to a 20-minute chat? I'd love to hear about your path and any advice you have for someone moving into this area. Happy to work around your schedule.
Why this works:
- Specific time ask (20 minutes): lowers the barrier.
- About them, not you: flatters and shows genuine interest.
- No job ask: removes pressure.
Preparing questions
Prepare 5-7 insightful questions. Good categories:
Their path:
- *How did you get into [field/role]?
- What surprised you most when you started?
The work:
- *What does a typical week look like?
- What do you enjoy most about the role?
The company or field:
- *What is the culture like at [company]?
- Where do you see [field] heading in the next few years?
Advice:
- *What advice would you give someone trying to move into this area?
- Is there anything you wish you had done differently?
Avoid questions easily answered by the website. Ask things only an insider can answer.
Conducting the interview
- Let them talk. Your job is to ask and listen, not to pitch yourself.
- Take notes. It shows you value their time and insight.
- Respect the time. At 20 minutes, acknowledge it: I want to respect your time; we can wrap up unless you'd like to continue.
- Ask the magic question near the end: Is there anyone else you think I should talk to? This expands your network through warm introductions.
Following up
Within 24 hours, send a thank-you with a specific takeaway:
Hi [name], thank you so much for your time. Your point about [specific insight] really changed how I think about [topic]. I'll be reading the book you recommended. I'd love to stay in touch as I explore this path. Best, [your name]
The specific takeaway shows you listened and valued the conversation.
Staying in touch
One conversation is the start, not the end. Over time:
- Share a relevant article (Saw this and thought of our chat).
- Update them on progress (I took your advice and...).
- Congratulate them on milestones.
This turns a single chat into a lasting professional relationship.
Common mistakes
- Asking for a job directly. It pressures the person and often ends the relationship.
- Talking too much about yourself. Listen; it is about their insight.
- No follow-up. A conversation without a relationship is wasted.
Practice
Identify someone you would like an informational interview with. Write:
- Your request message (20-minute ask, about them): _
- Three insightful questions: _
- Your follow-up with a takeaway: _
In the next lesson, you will learn the elevator pitch for any situation.