A casual conversation with a professional in your target role or industry to learn about their work, career path, and advice — not to ask for a job directly.
Informational Interview Explained
An informational interview is a meeting (usually 20-30 minutes) where you ask a professional about their role, industry, and career advice. Unlike a job interview, you are the one asking questions, and the goal is learning, not landing a specific position.
Informational interviews are powerful because they help you understand roles before applying, build relationships that may lead to referrals, learn about unadvertised opportunities, and gain insider knowledge about companies and industries.
Request them through LinkedIn, mutual connections, alumni networks, or professional associations. Keep the conversation focused on learning, thank them for their time, and follow up with a brief note.
Example
Questions to ask: "What does a typical day look like in your role?", "What skills are most important for success?", "What do you wish you had known before entering this field?", "What is the biggest challenge you face?"
How This Relates to Your Resume
After an informational interview, ask "Based on what I have shared about my background, are there areas of my resume I should strengthen?" This can provide invaluable feedback.
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