If you are thinking about starting your own business or entering a new career field, it can be valuable to find a little more about the job, the opportunities in the area and have someone who can answer the many questions your probably have. This is the perfect situation for setting up an informational interview.
An informational interview is just a meeting with someone who works in the field you are interested in or who has a business like the one you want to start. The interview is a great way to get to know someone in the field and find out all of the little things that you can't learn in a classroom.
How to set up an informational interview:
The bet way is to ask your professional network if they have friends in that particular field. If that doesn't give you a few good leads, you can search social networking sites like LinkedIn or even contact your local Chamber of Commerce. If you weren't referred to the business by a friend or collegue, you will probably want to do a bit of research to find out some information about them. You want to select someone who is successful in the field and who will have valuable information for you.
Next, give them a call. Introduce yourself and let them know who referred you to them. Tell the that you are interested in finding out more about the industry or starting a business in the field. Be clear that you are looking for advice, not a job. Ask them if they have 15-30 minutes free in the coming week or two and if they would be willing to meet with you. Most of the time, you will find that the person will be flattered and willing to make time for you. Just be sure that you make it clear that you aren't meeting with them in hopes of getting a job.
When you prepare for this type of interview, it is important to treat it in a similar manner as you would a job interview. That means:
- Dress and act professionally.
- Try to make a good impression, because this person may be able to provide you with leads and assistance later on.
- Bring along a copy of your resume and a portfolio (if you have one). They may be able to look over it and offer some suggestions.
- Keep it short. Remember that their time is valuable.
- Ask them if they know of anyone else you could interview.
- Give them a business card with your contact information and social media links.
- Ask them if they would be willing to answer other questions at a later date.
- Thank them for their time and ALWAYS follow up with a thank you note.
An informational interview is one of the best ways to find out more about a particular field and also to meet people in the industry. If you have done your part and made a good impression, odds are good that they will keep you in mind when they hear about a job opening or other opportunity that might be right for you. Even if they don't, they can be an invaluable addition to your social network in addition to answering all of your questions.
If you are thinking of asking someone for an informational interview, be sure to read the next article, "Questions You Should Ask at an Information Interview".
Have you ever considered setting up an information interview? Let me know in the comments.
Are you looking for a job in Manufacturing? Be sure to visit ManufacturingWorkers.
By Melissa Kennedy- Melissa is a 9 year blog veteran and a freelance writer, along with helping others find the job of their dreams, she enjoys computer geekery, raising a teenager, supporting her local library, writing about herself in the third person and working on her next novel.
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