Informational interviewing: The secret behind successful job search
Q: I attended a jobs event in person a couple of weeks ago, and the topic of conducting informational interviews was on the agenda. This was the first time I had heard of interviewing others, and I wanted to get advice on why this would be important. How would informational interviewing help someone like me with 12 years of experience and good work history?
A:
Informational interviewing is for everyone thinking about changing their career or wanting to make better career decisions. Informational interviewing works because it is built upon two principles: gathering accurate information and building networking connections.
The knowledge you gain from informational interviewing is priceless in advancing your understanding of a specific industry and helping you identify hiring decisionmakers. Information is the foundation of all successful job searches, and the more you know about a company or industry, the more confidence you have in moving forward.
Informational interviewing is one of the most powerful career strategies you can implement, yet it often gets overlooked compared to other activities such as writing a good resume. Even if you have a good idea of knowing what you enjoy doing, gathering information will always help you stand out from the competition.
It can be wishful thinking to assume your work history and skills are all you need to point you in a new direction. At some point, you may want to try a different career path, and it helps to have the correct information in forming a plan of action. If you are in a career predicament of wanting to do something different but need confirmation that it is the right direction for you, consider informational interviewing, a a timeless approach that has helped others.
Here is why informational interviews will help boost your career:
• Meeting people helps you build your confidence while practicing your introduction. The benefits of exchanging ideas and information help increase your awareness and lead to new questions for future job interviews.
• Talking with others in a career field of interest offers advantages, such as learning how and where to start in a specific area and the skills needed to help you succeed.
• When you ask questions during an informal setting, you gain information from people who have hands-on experience. Their background and expertise help guide you for better decision-making when faced with job offers.
• Before you talk with someone, research their background to understand their experience. Your preparation will help you formulate good questions and share common interests.
• Ask for advice, referrals and additional resources to help you gain further industry insight.
Kimberly Thompson, M.Ed., is a national board-certified counselor and career coach. Send questions to kim@careerrescue.com or read her blog at HoustonChronicle.com/careers.