Conducting an Informational Interview

Tools

Contact

An Information Interview is a meeting with an individual in a career field you would like to explore. It provides an opportunity to gather information and guidance about the people, environment and skills involved in that field. Here are the steps you should take to arrange an informational interview:

• First, identify contacts in career fields that interest you. The most effective method of finding and talking to such individuals is through personal referrals. Ask your parents, friends, relatives, professors, and advisors for names of people they know.
• Before contacting a referral, do some basic research about the career field. Clarify why you seek to meet a specific person and what you hope to gain through an information interview.
• When you contact a referral, state who you are, that you are seeking career information and advice, and when you would like to meet. Be confident and courteous in your communication.
• Request an in-person interview. This arrangement will allow you to see the working environment, and compare various work settings if you conduct several interviews.
• Dress and act professionally. Establish rapport and demonstrate your interest in the interviewee's comments. If you have not finished the interview within the time period you had requested, thank the person for helping you by saying, "I said I would only take thirty minutes of your time. I know how busy you are." Extend the time only if the person you are interviewing strongly encourages you to do so. You may take a copy of this form with you to serve as a guide and to use for note taking. Request a business card before leaving.
• Write a short thank-you note within a day or two after your interview. Keep the interview information on file for the future -- this person may be an important job contact for you later.

For more information contact the University Advising Center at 864-2834 or advising@ku.edu or stop by our office at 126 Strong.