Informational Interviewing

The most effective way to gather detailed information about a particular career is to conduct an informational interview with someone who has a position that interests you.

An informational interview:

Allows you to determine if the career or company matches your skills, interests, values and expectations
Expands your professional network
Provides you with tips and information that may be of value while applying or preparing for an interview

Informational Interviewing Guide (PDF)

Steps to Informational Interviewing

Step 1: Identify People to Interview in a Career or With a Company That Matches Your Interest(s)

Tap into family, friends, faculty, staff, coaches, advisors, supervisors, mentors and St. Norbert College alumni

Step 2: Arrange the Interview

Contact them by phone or email, or have someone make a referral for you
View a sample email in the Networking & Informational Interviewing Guide (PDF)

Step 3: Prepare for the Interview by Researching all You Can About the Field or Company

Decide what knowledge you would like to gain and create a list of questions
View a list of questions in the Networking & Informational Interviewing Guide (PDF)

Step 4: Conduct the Informational Interview

Dress appropriately, arrive on time, be polite/professional, refer to your list of questions, and stay on track but allow for spontaneous discussion.
Be aware of time, ask for additional contacts and ask to use their name when reaching out
DO NOT ask about job opportunities (remember the purpose is to collect information)

Step 5: Follow-Up

Record the information gathered immediately following the interview
Within 48 hours, send a thank-you note

Informational Interviewing

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