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Informational Interviewing
Informational interviewing is an excellent tool that can be used to filter through potential job positions. This tool is not an opportunity to interview for a job but can be used to determine whether you want to pursue a specific career path or move on to graduate school. Informational interviewing allows you the opportunity to ask questions that you would not have been able to ask otherwise. Like normal interviews, you should dress appropriately for the informational interview. Also like a normal interview, you should send thank you and follow up letters. There are many good questions that are often overlooked when going to an informational interview, and there are some that should not be asked. Benefits of the informational interview include a more informed view of potential careers and an expanded network.
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Preparing for an Informational Interview
To properly prepare for an informational interview, be sure to:
- Research the company
- Dress for success
- Update and bring your resume. The Career Development Center offers resume services to those who are in need of help.
- Practice interviewing with the Career Development Center, family, or friends
- Call to confirm your appointment
- Prepare and prioritize a list of open ended questions
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Informational Interview Questions
Question to consider asking:
- General questions about the career field
- Questions pertaining to all aspects of the interviewee’s job
- Preparations for the career
- Interviewee’s career path
- Culture of the company
- Company’s needs
- Opportunities for advancement within the company
- Seeking advice if you are a career changer
- Seeking general advice and referrals from your interviewee
Questions to avoid asking:
- Do not ask blunt questions about their salary
- Do not ask for a job or help getting a job
- Do not ask highly personal questions
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Tools for Informational Interviewing
» Watch a video on Informational Interviewing:
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Additional Resources
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