“Informational Interview” Is NOT Synonymous With “Informal Job Interview”

by Angela Loëb

As you know, informational interviewing is supposed to be about general information gathering during a career change… and not about asking for job leads or for trying to get someone to hire or recommend you for their organization. Unfortunately many job seekers have “abused” this notion. They’ve interpreted the concept of informational interviewing as networking, sending the message: “I’m looking for a job with your organization and would like to talk to you about myself with the hope you will hire me.” So, in a way, the term “informational interview” has become synonymous with “informal job interview.” Therefore, those being approached are often jaded about the “real” reason for the meeting request.

If you look at two more factors – economic conditions being what they and the fact that the organization you’re approaching might be a highly-desirable place to work – then you can see why employers may possibly react this way.

When you reach out, do you add a resume to your email correspondence? That’s a big no-no. You will automatically be associated with job seekers who have probably used this approach before.

For some further helpful perspectives on the topic, check out these two articles by Marci Alboher from the NY Times Career Shifting Blog:
- My Pet Peeves About Informational Interviews
- Mastering The Informational Interview

In conclusion…

• Avoid calling it an “informational interview” outright.
• Don’t attach your resume unless they ask for it. (Side note: Of course, it’s always best if you can tailor your resume for a specific job rather than handing a generic one to someone you’re networking with. But, if they want something from you without there being a specific job in mind, then you’re pretty much forced to give them one that is more generic.)
• Give a quick synopsis in your email note explaining your background.
• Say you value the person’s opinion and would like to get their take on the [insert industry] scene in your town.
• If someone referred you, for heaven’s sake, please drop their name. If it’s someone they probably know pretty well, use their name in the subject line of your email, e.g. “Sally Smith suggested I contact you…”

Angela Loëb is an author, speaker and co-owner of Great Occupations. She and her partner, Jay Markunas, help people make successful career transitions through workshops, “pajama learning” webclasses, personalized consulting sessions, as well as through The Job Search Boot Camp Show. Find out more at www.greatoccupations.com.

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