What is Informational Interviewing and Why Should You Do It?

The term "informational interview" was first coined by "What Color is Your Parachute?" author Richard Nelson Bolles. Rather than a job interview, which is designed to pinpoint an ideal candidate for an open position, an informational interview is a chance for both the interviewer and the interviewee to get to know each other.

This type of professional networking doesn't necessarily have to involve workers in the Human Resources department, who may simply tell you to send a resume. Instead, try to set up a meeting with a department director, a supervisor, or even the CEO to get a real insight. The higher you go, the more of a career impact you could make, particularly if you impress your contact.

One of the best things about an informational interview is that neither the interviewer nor the interviewee necessarily have as much pressure on their shoulders. After all, there may not be a current position for the interviewee within the company. Consequently, it is often easier for both parties to express themselves and ask questions.

Informational interviews are all about getting to know a potential employer and gaining a more in-depth understanding of what it's like to work for the company. An informational interview gives jobseekers a chance to ask about aspects of the business that would not necessarily be relevant in a traditional job interview. Those facets might include finding out about the corporation's attitude toward renewable energy or the extent of their dealings with the media. In turn, the business insider can choose to ask jobseekers about similar beliefs as well as their aspirations for the future.

You can use an informational interview to research a company before applying for a job. Doing so may give you an edge over other candidates, who might only have had the chance to read about the corporation online before coming into the HR office. In fact, the potential advantages of this type of "back door" technique cannot be overstated.

It is worth noting that informational interviews don't necessarily have to adhere to the same rules or best practice principles as regular job interviews. Certain questions are expressly forbidden during the traditional interview process, but are perfectly okay in an informational interview. For this reason, it's important to go into the meeting with a real sense of purpose: know in advance what to say and what not to give away.

An informational interview can be one of the best forms of professional networking available. Not only do you have access to an insider at the company you want to work for, but you get roughly a quarter of an hour of their undivided time. You get the opportunity to make a good impression on your contact and get your name put on a list of possible candidates for future job openings.

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