Primary Research and Informational Interviews. Whether you are considering enriching your current job situation or are embarking on a total career overhaul, one of the most important steps you will take is to conduct face-to-face interviews to learn more about careers. This long-standing practice can seem strange or intrusive, but it is just the opposite. People love to talk about what they do and will likely be complemented by your request. Furthermore, you will find out how they got into their position, what they like or don't like about it and how you might get into a similar line of work.
Finding People to Contact
| · |
Ask friends and family if they know anyone in the careers or positions that interest you. |
| · |
Network with colleagues and coworkers, or call your college alumni association for contacts. |
| · |
Reference your local Chamber of Commerce directory. |
| · |
Ask your pastor, minister or rabbi to suggest members in your spiritual community. |
| · |
Take a class to meet other people who have similar interests. |
| · |
Visit a professional association meeting in your local area that will attract individuals in the career you are researching. |
| · |
Meet people "virtually" through chat rooms or open bulletin boards on the web. |
| · |
Visit a human resource representative or manager in your company who could direct you to coworkers in positions you find interesting. |
How to Conduct an Informational Interview
| · |
If a Friend, Relative or Coworker Referred You: First ask the person providing the contact to pave the way. Have them call ahead and introduce you. Then you can follow up with your phone call and are likely to get a warm reception. |
| · |
If You Are Attending a Meeting and Won't Know Anyone: You might consider investing in some business cards that identify your career objective (not what you've been doing, but rather, what you think you want to do.) Then commit to meeting at least five people before you leave the event. If you have an outgoing personality, you may want to set higher goals. If you are an introvert, push yourself to meet three to five people. The payoff will be worth the effort! |
| · |
If You Are Calling a Total Stranger: Have a positive attitude and have your opening statement prepared. Write down a simple script: |
|
"Hi, my name is_________. I am calling to gain some insights on (fill in the career option you are learning about). I am considering making a career change/move and want to understand more about the field. Would you be available to talk with me for 15 to 20 minutes?" |
Remember, be patient and polite. Some people will not be able to talk to you right away. Make arrangements that work for the person you are interviewing, and let them know you appreciate the gift they are giving you.
Sample Questions to Ask in an Informational Interview
| · |
How did you get into this field? |
| · |
What are the key skills you need to be successful? |
| · |
What is required in terms of education and training? |
| · |
If you could do it all over again, would you go into this field? Why or why not? |
| · |
What are the physical requirements of the job? |
| · |
What are the stressors of the job? |
| · |
Is the field growing? What do you see emerging in the next five to ten years? |
| · |
What are average salaries for this region? |
| · |
Describe atypical day. |
| · |
What companies/organizations are great to work for with a background in your field? |
| · |
How much travel is involved? |
| · |
What are the technical skill requirements? |
| · |
Will I need to relocate to get ahead? |
| · |
How do people generally get jobs in your field (networking, recruiters or want-ads)? |
| · |
Whom else should I contact? |
| · |
May I stay in touch with you? |
Be sure to listen carefully and take notes. Follow up with a "thank you" note and always be looking for opportunities to give something back to the people with whom you network. Sending a relevant article or a lead on a great book can be a way to show your gratitude.
