The Informational Interview
An informational interview is, ideally, an in-person session spent with someone who can provide specific information about a career, company, or industry. It is not a job interview–though many informational interviews have led to offers of employment! Rather, it’s simply an opportunity for you to chat with a more experienced worker about the ins and outs of his or her job. Informational interviews are indispensable for the following situations: You’re exploring a career, company, or industry. The company you’d like to work for says it isn’t hiring. You need to jump-start your job search. You’ve networked your way to some great contacts and want to further the relationship.