Informational Interviews

An informational interview is an opportunity to spend time (usually 30-60 minutes) with a professional who is working in a career field of interest to you. By talking with someone already in the field, you will acquire practical career information and expand your professional network. The great thing about an informational interview is that it is a non-pressured situation where you can gain first-hand information about the field you’re researching. It’s also a wonderful way to build a network for future contacts and leads.

An informational interview is not the time to ask for a job or an internship. Remember that your primary purpose is to gather information. Focus on information gathering, developing your professional network, and building relationships, and it may lead to a job or internship in the future.

Informational Interviewing Helpful Hints & Sample Questions (PDF)

For additional information on informational interviews, please contact a Career Counselor. We also encourage you to review the Quintessential Careers Informational Interviewing Tutorial.