Self Made Millennial - Informational Interviews

Introduction

• Host: Madeline Mann
• Topic: Five steps for a successful informational interview
• Definition: Informational interview is a conversation to gain unique career insights from someone in a specific industry or role
• Purpose: Helps in making informed career decisions and networking

Why Conduct Informational Interviews?

• Direct insight into a potential career path
• Enables networking and forming meaningful relationships

Step 1: Finding Someone to Interview

• Use LinkedIn: Search job titles, industries, and educational backgrounds
• Reach Out: It's okay to contact people you don't know; many are willing to share their experiences
• Network: Discuss career interests with friends and family for potential introductions

Step 2: Crafting the Initial Email

• Key Elements:
  • Introduce yourself
  • State your current position (student, job role, etc.)
  • Explain what you're interested in learning
  • Keep it short, clear, and specific
  • Do not attach your resume
• Examples:
  • Brief and context-rich messages from potential interviewees
• Video on cold emailing to be released

Step 3: Preparation for the Interview

• Importance of Research:
  • Understand the person’s role and company
  • Familiarize yourself with the industry
• Prepare Questions:
  • Lead the conversation
  • Avoid awkwardness by being prepared

Step 4: Conducting the Interview

• Conversation Outline:
  • Briefly introduce yourself (3 minutes)
  • Ask about:
    • Their role and daily tasks
    • Passion and challenges in their job
    • Career path and timeline
    • Financial expectations at each career stage
  • Seek personal advice for skills and career preparation
  • Ask for further recommendations on others to interview
• Follow-Up Questions: Essential for a fruitful conversation

Step 5: After the Interview

• Follow-Up:
  • Express genuine gratitude through a thank-you note or email
  • Maintain the relationship with periodic updates about your career

Personal Anecdote

• Madeline’s experience: Informational interview with Liz led to mentorship and internship opportunities
• Importance of persistence in building professional relationships

Conclusion

• Encouragement to conduct informational interviews
• Call to action for comments on personal stories and tips
• Reminder to subscribe to the channel