Informational Interview

An informational interview is an interview you conduct with an individul in a job or profession of interest. Informational interviewing enables you to gain a better understanding of a particular field, job or employer. 

What you can gain from informational interviewing:

• Learn how to best approach a job application
• Learn how best to present yourself to a particular job or profession; practice sharing your interests and enhance your chances of receiving an interview
• Make professional connections and tap into the large"hidden job market" - gaining an "inside sponsor" to speak for your qualifications
• Become fluent in the language of the industry
• Gather "inside information" to use when honing your resume and cover letter
• Build your confidence in your career plan and ability to discuss your interests and how they match with a potential employer's needs

Once you have identified an individual you would like to talk to, make sure you are ready to make the most of their time and information.

Before the Interview

Research your field to gain a basic understanding of the occupation so you can focus on questions that can't be answered elsewhere.

Identify Professionals to Interview

Get referrals from family, friends, and UC San Diego alumni. Conduct informational interviews and gain access to UC San Diego alumni contacts and professional associations in a variety of career fields. Consider conducting several interviews in any one field to hear a wide range of experiences and viewpoints.

Setting Up the Interview

Call the professional to request an interview following these guidelines:

• Make it clear you are interviewing for information only and are not job hunting.
• Ask for only 20-30 minutes and then stick to it.
• Be flexible about when you can meet and, if a personal meeting isn’t possible, be willing to accept a phone interview.

Conducting the Interview

Dress in a business-like manner and be on time. Be prepared with your questions and a notebook in which to take notes. Ask questions such as the following:

• What attracted you to the field?
• Describe a typical day on the job.
• What personal attributes, skills, and qualifications are needed to be successful?
• What are the satisfactions and disappointments in your job?
• What are the possible career paths and salaries at various levels?
• If you had a choice, would you still enter this field? Why or why not?
• What trends and opportunities are developing?
• What advice would you give to someone entering the field?
• Who else could you refer me to who knows about this career field?

Write a thank you letter. Contact anyone you were referred to for more information.

Additional information on strategies surrounding the informational interview may be found in the WSDM - Career Communication Guide.