Information Interview

An information interview involves talking to people who work in an occupation of interest to you. The aim is to understand more about a field of work and career paths. You are presenting yourself as someone who is entering the labour market. You are not asking for a job.

Set up a meeting

A brief, professional phone call is a good way to set up an information interview. During the call:

• remind the person how you know them or who referred you
• explain that you are interested in their occupational field and would appreciate an insider's view
• ask if they can spare 10 minutes to speak in person; if they are busy, ask when would be a good time to call back, or ask if they would prefer you to contact them by email
• confirm your meeting with an email
• if they cannot help you, ask if they can suggest another person to approach
• thank them for their time and help.

Prepare for the meeting

• Dress appropriately for the meeting.
• Bring your business card or contact details.
• Write down questions you want to ask.

Sample questions

Your contact's experience

• How did you begin your career in this field? What jobs and experiences have led you to your current role?
• What was important to moving forward in your career?
• What do you do in a typical day/week?
• What are the best and worst parts about working at your company or job?
• What on-the-job training is given?

Your experience

• What are the most important skills and qualifications needed to enter the field?
• Is there a particular type of experience I should gain while studying?
• Do you know where I can find work experience, vacation employment or volunteer work in this industry?

Recruitment process

• What are the typical entry-level jobs in this field?
• What are the best ways of finding jobs in this field?
• What is the recruitment process at this organisation?
• What are some of the career paths in this industry?
• What are some of the job titles often found in this career field?
• Which organisations employ people to do this sort of work?

The industry

• What are the main issues relating to your industry and company?
• What are your thoughts about the labour market in this field?
• Are there any new developments in the industry?
• Which professional journals, magazines or newsletters would help me learn more?
• Which professional associations would you recommend joining?

Career development

• What job could a student with my background find in your company?
• What sort of jobs do people in this field move on to do?
• What is the organisation's policy towards further study?

Networking

• Do you know other people who may be able to assist me? What are their contact details? Can I mention your name?
• May I contact you again if I have any further questions?

After the meeting

If people have assisted you, thank them by email straight away. In addition, email or phone to advise them of the outcome of their suggestion or referral.

Reflect on your experience and think about where you might improve next time.

Resources

• Networking.
• Direct canvassing.