Most of us would agree that informational interviews are extremely important and can be helpful when looking for a job. Informational interviews include having an informal conversation with someone who works in your area of interest. They are helpful in exploring the industry and getting an insight into what sort of work it entails.

If you just graduated or are looking for an internship, informational interviews are something you don’t want to miss out on. These interviews provide the perfect opportunity for you to network, explore the industry and gain a perspective on the work environment. But once you get an interview, what should you say?

Here’s your guide to informational interviews:

Prepare questions

What you ask during an informational interview is extremely important because your questions will help you get the information you’re looking for. Therefore, always do your homework. Do some research about the person you’re interviewing, the company they work for and the position they’re in. Also, remember to ask your questions in an order that makes sense and is easy to follow.

Practice

There’s no such thing as a perfect interview, but if you practice, you might come very close. Go through your introduction a couple of times to help yourself feel more confident.

It’s also helpful to write down your questions and speak them aloud to see if your words make sense.

Practice, practice and then practice some more!

Dress professionally

Whether you’re conducting the interview online or in person, always dress professionally. Dressing professionally not only presents a professional image of yourself but may also impact how the interviewee responds to you. It plays a major role in instilling confidence in you and your work.

Bring your portfolio

Always remember to create both a digital and physical copy of your portfolio so you’re ready whether your interview is in person or conducted virtually.

An informational interview can be a great chance to showcase your work and receive feedback and advice on how you could improve your portfolio.

Any and all advice from a professional in the field is going to be extremely valuable. Don’t waste the opportunity.

Be interactive

Even though you may be doing the interview to get the information you want, remember to be kind and respectful to your interviewee. Interact with their answers and if you can, find something common you can bond over.

Remember, these interviews are an opportunity to network, so show the other person that you’re interested in whatever they’re saying and that you respect their time.

Ask for advice

Your interviewee should know you a little better towards the end of your interview, so take this moment to ask for their advice on areas that you can improve on. Or, ask them what other sectors they think you can might be interested in exploring. You can also ask them what advice they would they give to someone starting out in the industry or if they might know someone worth connecting with.

You never know, you might learn something that could be helpful in the future.

Informational interviews are a great learning experience and useful networking opportunity, so make sure to take advantage of them when you can.

And don’t forget to always thank your interviewee for their time and try to keep in touch.

Confused about what to do after an interview? Here’s the fail-proof guide to nailing the post-interview followup.

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