Informational Interviews

by Megan Fingert

            It’s frustrating when a particular company or industry isn’t currently hiring in your field. Sometimes the fluctuation of the job market leaves open spaces for many and none for others. It may be a fantastic time to be a senior graduating with a degree in PR and other times it may be better to be a senior graduating with a degree in education. Many people use a lack of job openings as an opportunity to branch out and try something new. Whether you’ve been thinking about starting your own business or becoming a consultant, one thing that can really help you stay on the job search horse is an informational interview.

            Informational interviews are not an opportunity to get hired and promise no possibility of an offer, but they can help with networking, advice, and can help build your reputation with a company for being hired in the future. As well, if you’re interested in beginning a new business venture, they can help you to learn more about the particular industry or endeavor you are about to enter.

            A fabulous article about informational interviews in the New York Times by Marci Alboher offers some advice for the informational interview process that I believe is critical to keep in mind:

            “1. The other person is doing you a favor, so it should be about what’s convenient for the interviewer, not you. Follow his or her lead as to whether meetings will be in person or by phone.

2. These meetings are not about asking for job leads; the point is to learn something.


3. Think about informational interviews as a way to build a relationship and expand your network, not as a way to get a job.


4. Wait for the right time. So often we get a number and feel as if we should call immediately. But if you’re not ready, you may bungle a meeting. Why wouldn’t you be ready? When you’re overextended and it’s hard to find time on your calendar or if you haven’t done enough research about the industry or the company where the person works.


5. Don’t overstay your welcome. It’s always better to signal the meeting is ending and let the other person say he or she is open to continuing the discussion.”

            Often in hard job markets, it’s easy to get down on yourself and easy to give up. I urge you instead, when job searching gets tough, to remember that your network is constantly being built. Whether you search out an informational interview with a complete stranger at a large company or a family friend who owns a small business, a contact is always worth having. You’d be surprised who, down the road, could give you the professional opportunity of your dreams.

            As well, remember that an entrepreneurial spirit is a worthwhile trait to have in a tough job market. While many students can become wrapped up in working for a large corporation, your professional life may lie in your own hands. Have you had a wonderful idea for a local service or store? Do you have a passion that could be profitable? Look into becoming your own boss. Your professional fortune could be a creative idea away.