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Informational Interviewing

An informational interview is a meeting with a working professional to learn more about an occupation or profession.  The interview is intiated by the student and is intended to be an opportunity to gather inforamtion about the professionals' career career pathway and day-to-day experiences in the profession.  Sometimes, an informational interview can lead to an internship or volunteering position but that is not the purpose of the interview.

Why conduct informational interviews?

By conducting an informational interview with a health care professional, you will be able to:

  • Learn what a typical day is like and clarify why this area is of interest to you
  • Learn about selecting programs, including things to look for in a program and questions to ask throughout your search
  • Build confidence in preparing for job interviews, as you will become more confident in conversing with professionals. You’ll also get good practice for future interviews by answering the questions that interviewees ask you!
  • Expand your professional network by receiving suggestions for others you might interview

How to arrange and prepare for an informational interview?

  • Identify someone to interview in your field of interest.  Use your network—ask parents, friends, relatives, alumni, or search online directories
  • Prepare for the interview by learning about the person you will interview (if possible) and preparing questions (See recommendations below)
  • Set up an appointment by email or phone: Mention your interest in the field and that you would appreciate a short (20-30 minute) informational interview. Let them know who referred you (if applicable)
  • Show up early, dress appropriately (business casual) and take notes
  • Initiate and keep the conversation flowing—stay on track, but allow spontaneous conversation. Be prepared for the interviewee to ask you questions, as well
  • Stick to your 20-30 minute time frame
  • Ask for recommendations for others you might contact and if you can use his/her name when setting up additional interviews
  • If the conversation has gone well, ask if there are any opportunities to shadow to learn more
  • Ask if you can contact him/her again if you have questions in the future

The Best Questions to Ask in an Informational Interview

Questions about the interviewer 
  • What is your current position?
  • Why did you decide to come to work in this field?
  • What does your typical day look like?
  • What do you like about the profession?
  • What are the challenges?

Questions about the profession
  • What are the main goals of the profession?
  • What is the profession's culture?
  • What type of people are successful/what qualities do they have?

Questions about how to get a position
  • I saw X job on the organization's website... is this something I'd be a good fit for?
  • What is the best way to learn out about opportunities?
  • What is the best way to express interest in them?
  • What is the best way to keep in touch with you?

Your custom questions based on your research 
  • Incorporate the research you've done on the organization/office/profession.
  • Incorporate what you know about the interviewer/any common connections.
  • Ask questions to lead the conversation in a direction where you can show your strengths.