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Potential Results of Informational Interviews

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You accomplish several things when you go out on an informational interview. You obtain a great deal of information about your career field and the skills needed to do that job effectively. You gain a perspective of work that goes beyond the limitations of job titles, allowing you to see not only what skills are required for the job but also how you might fit into that work setting. Thus, you have greater flexibility in planning options. You have the opportunity to make personal contacts among management-level personnel. You gain insight into the hidden job market (employment opportunities that are not advertised). You become aware of the needs of the employers and the realities of employment. First-hand and current information allows you to learn what happens on the job beyond the understanding provided through your coursework or other outside research. This exposure not only provides personal understanding but it could also result in your becoming a more impressive job candidate. Because informational interviewing is comparatively low-stress, you gain confidence in talking with people while learning what you need to know. Informational interviewing provides an opportunity to meet with potential employers before the more stressful (for both parties) job interview. Because you are only asking for information, you are in control of the interview; you decide which questions to ask. Later, evaluate the acquired information for personal use. This opportunity will expose you to a variety of jobs and personalities of companies making the search for your "niche" that much easier. It is an opportunity to learn where you might fit into a particular organization.