On the opposite end of the stress spectrum from
screening interviews is the informational interview.
A meeting that you initiate, the informational
interview is underutilized by job-seekers who might
otherwise consider themselves savvy to the merits of
networking. Job seekers ostensibly secure
informational meetings in order to seek the advice
of someone in their current or desired field as well
as to gain further references to people who can lend
insight. Employers that like to stay apprised of
available talent even when they do not have current
job openings, are often open to informational
interviews, especially if they like to share their
knowledge, feel flattered by your interest, or
esteem the mutual friend that connected you to them.
During an informational interview, the jobseeker and
employer exchange information and get to know one
another better without reference to a specific job
opening.
This takes off some of the performance pressure, but
be intentional nonetheless:
- Come prepared with thoughtful questions about
the field and the company.
- Gain references to other people and make sure
that the interviewer would be comfortable if you
contact other people and use his or her name.
- Give the interviewer your card, contact
information and resume.
- Write a thank you note to the interviewer.
