An informational interview is just as it sounds–it is an interview to gain information.  However, you never know where an informational interview might lead.  The entrance to the hidden job market is through the informational interview.  You may come across jobs that haven’t been posted; or you may hit it off so well with them that they will offer you your choice of positions, which actually happened to someone I was speaking with the other day.

Here are a few quick tips for conducting an informational interview.

1.    Conduct yourself with the same professionalism as you would a job interview and follow the same protocol (e.g., proper dress, thank you notes, etc).

2.    You are leading the informational interview so do your research and go in thoroughly prepared with your questions.

3.    Know what your goal is.  Finding a job is a process, so don’t go in expecting to find a job with each informational interview.  Before you go in, ask yourself what one piece of information can you get from this person that will be most beneficial to move you forward to the next step in your job search process.  For example, you may simply want information about the company to determine if you would like to work there.  You might want to get the name of the person within the company who would hire someone like you so you can talk to that person next.  You might want to know what opportunities are available in the marketplace for someone with your interests and experience.

4.    Informational interviews should only be 20 to 30 minutes long.  Respect the person’s time and make sure you conclude the interview when your time is up.

5.    When you go to your interview, ask the person about their job and ask questions about the company.  You don’t need to ask for a job, it is understood that you want a job.  Give them your branding statement and your value proposition and then ask the person for their advice.  Ask them what they would suggest you do and who they would suggest you talk to to find a position where you can contribute your unique talents and skills.

6.    After the interview, continue to build a relationship with the person.  Try to find something to give back to the person (e.g., send another thank you note after you follow up on one of their suggestions or after you meet with a contact they gave you; or send an article of interest).

7.    Relax, enjoy yourself, and realize that you are creating valuable business relationships that may serve you for years to come.

Reminder:  Perfect-fit Workshops start April 19!  Take your job search to the next level and land your dream job.  Register now at http://www.occupationalzen.com/program-enrollment.html