An informational interview is an opportunity to learn about someone and their profession directly. Review this article to learn how to connect while presenting yourself in a professional manner, even when meeting online.
Be sure to read our page on How to Create a Professional Network as well!
Before Your Meeting:
- Ensure you have a quiet space with good lighting, stable Wi-Fi, and that you can hear the professional well. If you’ve never used the web platform before, test it with a friend
- The library & WEB building have rooms that you can reserve
- Make sure you look presentable (your shirt tucked in if it’s button down, etc.)
- Check out our page on how to dress professionally !
- Use a virtual background to keep your space private.
- Download and test Zoom, Teams, or Google Meets app/virtual backgrounds before your meeting
- Bring a notepad and pen (in case you need to jot something down)
- Bring a cup/bottle of water to ensure your voice quality, in case the chat is long
Prepare an Introduction about Yourself
- Develop your elevator pitch. This includes name, career goals, major, and related experiences.
- Introducing yourself should be between 30 seconds and 2 minutes.
- Why did you choose your major?
- Include your future goals
- Why are you interested in the field?
Do Research
- Know what the company is about (mission, goals)
- Look up news about the company
- You can use Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, or Yahoo Finance as resources
- Use LinkedIn to find information about the person you’re speaking with
During Your Conversation
- Listen effectively with the intent to understand, not just reply
- Be professional, but relaxed and friendly
- Maintain eye contact
- Check out this page for samples questions you can ask!
After The Conversation
- Send a thank you email! (Preferably within 24-48 hours of the interview)
- Consider connecting with the person on LinkedIn for future connections