Informational Interviews

1. Use network platforms

LinkedIn is a powerful tool for finding professionals in your field. Search for individuals with relevant job titles or companies of interest and reach out to them with a personalized message. Additionally, LinkedIn offers a feature called the Alumni tab, which provides general insights about school alumni and grants access to their detailed professional profiles. Go to go.iu.edu/6ATm for directions.

2. Attend events

Attend industry conferences, workshops, or networking events where you can meet professionals in person. Exchange contact information and follow up with a request for an informational interview.

3. Connect with alumni

Connect with alumni from Indiana University who are working in your desired industry. Alumni are often willing to offer advice and support to fellow graduates. Luddy has made this easy with the Luddy Alumni Directory at go.iu.edu/6ATV (NOTE: This directory is only to be used by students of the Luddy School for the purposes of personal career development.)

4. Join organizations

Joining industry-specific student organizations or professional associations can provide access to a network of professionals who may be willing to participate in informational interviews. For a complete list of IU Student Organizations, visit go.iu.edu/6AWD.

5. Ask for referrals

Reach out to your existing contacts, such as friends, family members, faculty, or former colleagues, and ask if they can introduce you to professionals in your field of interest. However, it is never acceptable to ask for a referral from someone who does not have a professional or personal relationship with you.

1. Personalize your message

When reaching out to professionals for an informational interview, personalize your
message to demonstrate genuine interest and relevance. Mention why you admire their work or why you are interested in speaking with them specifically.

2. Be clear and concise

Clearly communicate the purpose of your message and request for an informational
interview. Briefly introduce yourself, explain your background and career goals, and
express your interest in learning from their expertise.

3. Offer flexibility

Be respectful of the interviewee's time and offer flexibility in scheduling the interview.
Provide options for meeting in person, over the phone, or via video conference, depending on their preferences and availability.

4. Follow up

If you do not receive a response to your initial message, do not be discouraged. Follow up politely after a week or two to reiterate your interest and availability for an informational interview.

1. Make a good impression

Recognize that the person you are meeting with is generously giving their time to speak with you. They may also provide valuable referrals that could lead to job opportunities.

2. End with action items

Wrap up the interview by summarizing any follow-up steps you plan to take based on their advice and insights. This demonstrates that you value their guidance and were attentive during the conversation.

3. Keep things concise

Respect the interviewee's time by keeping your initial conversation brief, ideally lasting between 15 to 20 minutes. Clearly communicate this timeframe when requesting the meeting.

4. Express gratitude

Thank the interviewee for their time and the valuable information they shared with you.

5. Send a thank-you email

Following the interview, express your gratitude for the interviewee's time and valuable insights by sending a considerate note, message, or email. This gesture reinforces your professionalism and leaves a positive impression.

About the role

• Can you tell me more about your career path and how you got started in (industry/role)?
• What is a typical day like for you?
• What do you enjoy most about your work in (industry/role)?
• What are some of the biggest challenges you face in your role, and how do you overcome them?
• Did you feel prepared for this role after leaving IU?
• How do you maintain a work-life balance in a demanding industry like (industry/role)?

Advice and insight

• Can you recommend any resources or professional development opportunities for someone interested in pursuing a career in (industry/role)?
• Can you share any advice for someone starting their career in (industry/role)?
• Are there any networking events, conferences, or industry groups you recommend joining to further connect with professionals in this field?
• Is there anyone else you would recommend I speak with for additional insights and advice?
• Could I send you my resume for you to look at to see how hirable I would be for a role in (industry)?

About the industry

• What is the corporate culture like in your company?
• Which firms do you see as your company’s toughest competitors?
• Can you provide insights into current trends and developments in (industry/role)?
• What skills and qualifications do you consider essential for success in this field?

Questions not to ask

"How much do you make?"

Bringing up salary during an informational interview is considered inappropriate. This topis is personal, and numerous factors contribute to an individual's salary.

"Will you refer me for a position within your company?"

Remember, it is important to emphasize that requesting a referral from an individual with whom you lack a professional or personal connection is never appropriate.