Guidelines for Information Interviewing

You may have heard that "Information Interviewing" is a great way to gain information about careers or to job search. Here are some of the most common questions asked about this valuable career strategy.

What exactly is an information interview?

An information interview is an interview initiated by you with someone working in an organization or career field which interests you. It is not a job interview, and your goal should not be to ask for employment. Information interviews allow you to gain realistic information about what you've heard or read about careers, to expand your knowledge of the job market, to learn about additional career paths, and to build your professional network by talking to individuals working in your career area.

Who might find information interviews helpful?

Just about everyone, however, it is important to clarify what you hope to gain from the interview before initiating contact.

FRESHMEN AND SOPHOMORES:

If you are unsure about your choice of career or major or you want to learn how your major relates to a particular career, speaking with a professional working in a field of interest to you can help you understand more about the day to day tasks of a particular job. You can gather realistic information about careers and how they relate to your interests, skills, values and personality characteristics. Information interviews are a valuable tool to help you make career decisions.

JUNIORS AND SENIORS:

The more you understand about the job market, your occupational choice, and how to establish a professional network, the better off you will be in your job search. Information interviews can help you research industries, organizations, or geographical areas, provide you with feedback on your resume and with job searching tips, as well as help you build confidence for actual job interviews. They can also provide referrals that may ultimately translate into job leads.

How do you find people to interview?

Do you know someone who works in your field of interest? Do you know someone who knows someone in that area? Consider faculty, classmates, family, friends, friends family, professionals such as your doctor, former and present co-workers, acquaintances, and supervisors.

Become active in professional organizations related to your field; attend conferences and workshops to meet people in your career area.

Journals and newsletters specific to your interest area can help you identify people who are visible in the field.

Professors may have helpful literature, or names of people to contact.

Use directories and other written materials to identify names of potential contacts.

How do I make contact with the person I would like to interview?

Your interview may take place over the phone or during an office visit. If you do not have a direct referral to the person with whom you want to speak, consider writing an introductory letter indicating your request for a meeting, then follow up by phone. If you do have a direct referral, you may telephone the person directly indicating how you were referred to them.

Here are some samples of how you might begin your phone conversation.

To schedule a visit:

Hello, my name is ______, and I was referred to you by _____ as someone who might be able to help me. Is this a good time for you to talk with me? (If yes, great! Continue with an introduction like the one below. If no, when would be a better time?)

I am a senior at Buffalo State and would like to pursue a career in ______ when I graduate. I understand that you have been in the field for several years and may be able to provide me with some information. I was hoping that I could schedule a time to meet with you.

To schedule a phone interview:

Hello, Ms. _______. My name is _______ and I found your name from a resource directory of professionals in your field. Do you have a few moments to speak with me? (If yes, great! Continue with an introduction like the one below. If no, when would be a better time?)

I am a sophomore at Buffalo State and am considering a career in _________. While I have already done some research about the field, I still have a lot of questions about whether this is the right area for me. I was hoping you could tell me from a more experienced perspective what it is like to work as a ______? RESPONSE Great! I do have a few questions written down...

What types of questions should I ask during my interview?

1. What are the functions of your industry and profession?
• What is your title? How long have you been in this position?
• How did you become interested in this field?
• What are your responsibilities, and what skills are particularly useful to you in fulfilling them?
• What is a typical "chain of command" in this field?
• How does your organization compare with others in the field?
2. What does your work day consist of? Your work year?
• How may hours a week do you work?
• Do you work closely with other people?
• What are some problems you must face, and decisions you must make?
• What do you find challenging in your work?
• Could I have a tour?
3. How specialized is your work?
• How do most people get started in this field?
• Are any degrees or licenses required to enter this field?
• What academic preparation would you recommend to qualify for this position?
• How do you keep up with changes occurring in your field?
• Do you belong to any professional organizations? (Do they have student chapters?)
• Where could I write for up-to-date information?
4. In your opinion, what is needed for success and fulfillment in this field?
• Which skills do you consider important for success in this field?
• What talents and personality traits do you consider to be necessary for this field?
5. What is the salary range for work in this profession?
• Starting
• Top Salary
• Fringe Benefits
6. Life style considerations.
• Do you represent your organization or profession at social functions after working hours?
• Are any travel obligations associated with your job?
• Is relocation a factor in your job?
• How is this field affected by economic fluctuations?
7. Is this field growing, with opportunities for employment?
• Are "no experience" college graduates employed in this field?
• What kinds of jobs could be used as entrance into this field?
• Are there other fields in which the same skills might by utilized?
• What was your career path from college to the present?
• Which classes would you recommend I take in the future?
• What is the reason most people give when they leave this field?
8. Can you suggest other people who might be valuable as sources of information?
• May I use your name?

What else should I know about information interviewing before I begin?

• For a meeting, present yourself on time, professionally dressed, and prepared with research and questions.
• As the interview begins, re-state why you requested the meeting.
• The purpose of your call or visit is to learn from a professional. Express that this conversation and the information you gather have value for you. Most people enjoy an opportunity to help with information, advice, and guidance.
• DO NOT at any time ask for a job during an information interview. By asking for a job, you risk embarrassment and ruined credibility.
• Take responsibility for keeping to the time you mentioned in your phone call, usually about thirty minutes. Stay longer only if invited to do so by the person you are interviewing.
• Before leaving, ask the professional if they know someone else you might speak with about the career field. This is one method of building your network.

What should I do to follow up after my interview?

• Record accurately the name of the person interviewed, the date of the meeting, what was discussed, and names of additional contacts. Obtaining your contact's business card could prove useful for this.
• Write a thank you note after each information interview. Express your appreciation for the assistance you received and mention one or two specifically helpful points. If you are a senior, you may include a copy of your resume and indicate your willingness for it to be circulated as appropriate. (Sample thank you letters are available for viewing in the Career Development Center, GC 306).
• When you make a decision about your career choice, or you find a position, share your news with people you have interviewed. They will want to hear what happened to you.

Good luck!

We'd love to hear about your information interviewing success!