How to Have a Killer Informational Interview

Introduction

• Presentor: Madeline Mann from Self Made Millennial.
• Purpose: Guide on conducting effective informational interviews.
• Definition: An informational interview is a conversation to learn from someone's unique career or industry perspective.
• Benefits: Can help in making informed career decisions due to time constraints in exploring all available options.

Why Conduct Informational Interviews?

• Personal Insight: Provides direct insight into whether a specific career path is suitable.
• Networking: Offers a chance to build meaningful relationships with people of similar interests.

Steps for Conducting Informational Interviews

Step 1: Find Someone to Interview

• Use LinkedIn to connect with professionals with interesting career paths.
• Consider reaching out to people you don’t know; many are happy to share.
• Talk to friends and family about your career interests — they might know someone useful.

Step 2: Initial Email

• Content: Brief introduction, current position, and interest in learning from them.
• Tips: Keep it short, clear, and don't attach a resume.
• Examples:
  • Hi Madeline! I'm researching roles in people operations and would like to ask a few questions.
  • Hi, Madeline! I attended your presentation and have questions about grad school admissions.
• Future video on cold emailing suggested.

Step 3: Preparation

• Research about the interviewee and their company before the interview.
• Prepare questions ahead of time to lead the conversation effectively.

Step 4: Conducting the Conversation

• Outline:
  • Introduce yourself concisely (3 minutes max).
  • Focus conversation on the interviewee’s experience.
• Key Areas to Cover:
  1. Their role and daily tasks.
  2. Passion and challenges in their job.
  3. Career path and progression.
  4. Advice for skill-building and growth.
• Questions to Ask:
  • What does your daily work involve?
  • What do you love and dislike about your job?
  • How did you progress in your career?
  • What salary expectations should one have?
  • What advice do you have for someone entering this field?
• Follow-up: Always ask for referrals to others they recommend talking to.

Step 5: After the Interview

• Thank You: Send a follow-up email expressing genuine gratitude.
• Long-term Relationship: Keep them updated about your career occasionally.

Personal Example

• Madeline’s personal experience with Liz, a colleague from college, who became a mentor and facilitated her career progression.

Conclusion

• Encouragement: Don't be deterred by silence or rejection.
• Call to Action: Share personal stories and tips on informational interviews in the comments.
• Subscribe: Reminder to subscribe to the channel for more insights.