Do Research Before the Meeting

Try to learn as much about the organization before the informational interview. This will give more insight into the organization’s professional culture and answer many questions beforehand. Being informed will let the contact know that you are seriously interested in their organization. This also avoids wasted time by not asking questions easily found online.

Prepare a List of Questions

It is important to have a list of questions that you plan to ask. This will help keep the informational interview on topic and show the interviewee that you have prepared and are seriously interested in learning more about the organization or career. It is a good idea to anticipate answers to some of the questions, and be prepared with follow-up questions to clarify something.

First Impressions

Dress in business attire; refer to our Dress for Success (PDF) guidebook for information and tips for appropriate outfits. Like you would for any professional interview, give yourself plenty of time to travel and arrive 5-10 minutes early. Remember, an informational interview is a good time to make a first impression on a potential future employer. During the day, you may meet with people in the organization responsible for hiring. Remember the rule, “Be as friendly to the janitor as you are to the CEO,” and be polite and professional to anyone you may come in contact with. Bring a notebook and a pen in order to take notes, and refer to your list of prepared questions. Bring a copy of your resume (only provide if they ask for it).