An informational interview is a short conversation, usually 20 minutes, where you ask someone about their job and field. You are asking for insight, not a job. Find people a step or two ahead of where you want to be, send a brief specific message, come with five or six good questions, and follow up with a thank-you note.
Who to ask
You get the most from people who are close enough to your stage to remember it. Someone two to six years into the job will usually give more practical answers than a senior executive.
- Alumni from your college or university (your career office or LinkedIn alumni search can help).
- Friends of friends, family friends, former coworkers and former professors’ contacts.
- People who post or speak about their work, since they are often happy to talk about it.
- People in roles you saw in job postings, at companies you are curious about.
Make a list of 15 to 20 names. Many will not answer, which is normal and not personal.
Message templates
Keep messages under 100 words. Say who you are, why them, and exactly what you are asking for. Edit these so they sound like you.
Template 1: cold message (LinkedIn or email)
Hi Jordan, I graduated last spring and I am exploring a career in product marketing. I read your post about moving from sales into marketing, and I would love to hear how you made that switch. Would you have 20 minutes for a call in the next few weeks? I am happy to work around your schedule. Thank you, Sam
Template 2: warm introduction
Hi Priya, Alex Chen suggested I reach out. I am early in my career and considering urban planning, and Alex said you have been working in a city planning office for a few years. Could I ask you a few questions about what the work is really like? A 20 minute call any time in the next couple of weeks would be great. Thanks so much, Sam
Template 3: polite follow-up (after about a week)
Hi Jordan, just bringing this back to the top of your inbox. I know you are busy, so no worries if now is not a good time. If a short call works later this month, I would really appreciate it. Thanks, Sam
Send one follow-up. If there is still no reply, move on to the next name.
Template 4: thank-you note (same day)
Hi Priya, thank you for your time today. Your point about learning zoning basics before applying was really helpful, and I am going to look into the course you mentioned. I will let you know how it goes. Best, Sam
Questions worth asking
Pick five or six. You will not get through more in 20 minutes.
- What does a typical week look like for you?
- What part of the job surprised you most when you started?
- What skills matter most day to day, and which ones did you have to learn on the job?
- How did you get your first role in this field?
- What do you wish you had known at my stage?
- What kinds of entry roles would you look at if you were starting now?
- Is there anyone else you think I should talk to?
That last question is the most valuable one. A single good conversation often leads to two more.
Running the conversation
- Be a few minutes early in person, and join video calls right on time.
- Open by thanking them and restating your goal in one sentence.
- Watch the clock. At the 20 minute mark, say “I want to respect your time” and offer to wrap up.
- Take short notes so your thank-you note can mention something specific.
- Do not ask for a job or a referral in this first call. If they offer help, accept it gratefully.
What to do afterward
Keep a simple spreadsheet: name, date, what you learned, who they suggested and when you will follow up. Every couple of months, send a short update (“I took your advice and…”). People like hearing that their time made a difference, and this is how a single call turns into a real professional relationship. For more on this, see networking for introverts, and if you are using these conversations to test a new direction, our guide on changing careers.
Where a mentor helps
The hard part is rarely knowing what to do. It is sending the messages. A mentor helps you build the list, sharpen your outreach, practice the questions and keep a weekly target, such as three messages sent, so the habit sticks. See accountability coaching and career and education mentoring.
Related
- Your first job after college
- Networking for introverts
- Should you go to grad school?
- How to set goals you actually reach
Common questions
Is it okay to ask a stranger for an informational interview?
Yes. Many people are glad to talk about their work, especially when the request is short, specific and respectful of their time. Expect some people not to reply.
How long should an informational interview last?
Ask for 20 minutes and stick to it. If the other person wants to keep talking, let them lead.
Should I bring a resume?
Have it ready, but do not send it unless they ask. The goal of the call is learning, not applying.
Can an informational interview lead to a job?
Sometimes, indirectly. People remember those who were prepared and followed up, and they may think of you when something opens up.
Get started
Want help building a steady outreach habit? Call (888) 305 5422, email contact@blackburnmentoring.com or start with a short assessment. A member of our team reviews every assessment personally and sets up a free intro call.