An informational interview is a short conversation with someone who does the job, works at the company, or is in the field you're curious about. You ask the questions, they share what the work is really like, and you leave with a clearer picture and often a useful contact. It's one of the best tools for changing careers, choosing a specialty, or getting to know a company before you apply. It is not a job interview, and the fastest way to ruin one is to ask for a job.
What an informational interview is (and isn't)
| It is | It isn't |
|---|---|
| A 15 to 20 minute conversation you request | A job interview |
| About learning what the work is like | A request for a job or referral |
| Led by your questions | A pitch about yourself |
| Usually by video, phone or coffee | A formal meeting with HR |
Who to ask
- People who have the job you want, ideally two to five years into it
- Alumni from your school or program
- Former colleagues who moved into the field
- Speakers at events or authors of articles you liked
- People at companies you're considering, but not the hiring manager for an open role you've applied to
Mutual connections help a lot. A short introduction from someone you both know makes a yes much more likely.
How to ask: message templates
Keep it short, specific and easy to agree to.
Cold message (LinkedIn or email)
Hi [Name],
I'm a [current role] exploring a move into [field]. I read your post on [topic] and noticed you moved from [their background] into [their role], which is the path I'm considering. Would you be open to a 15-minute call in the next couple of weeks? I'd love to hear what the work is like day to day. Happy to work around your schedule.
Thanks, [Your name]
Through a mutual connection
Hi [Name],
[Mutual contact] suggested I reach out. I'm [one line about you] and I'm trying to learn more about [field or company]. Would you have 15 to 20 minutes for a quick call? No pressure at all if now isn't a good time.
Best, [Your name]
Follow-up if there's no reply after a week
Hi [Name], just bumping this up in case it got buried. Completely understand if you're busy. Thanks either way!
Send one follow-up only.
30 questions to ask
You won't use all of them. Pick six to eight based on what you want to learn.
The job itself
- What does a typical day or week look like?
- What parts of the job take the most time?
- What do you enjoy most about it?
- What's the hardest part?
- What surprised you when you started?
- What skills matter most to do it well?
- How do you measure success in this role?
- What tools or software do you use most?
Getting into the field
- How did you get into this role?
- If you were starting again, what would you do differently?
- What experience would make a candidate stand out?
- Are there certifications or courses that are actually worth it?
- What do people coming from my background usually underestimate?
- Which entry-level roles are the best way in?
- What would make my resume more relevant?
The company and industry
- What's the culture like on your team?
- How do people here usually grow or get promoted?
- What's changing in the industry right now?
- Which companies are known for training people well?
- What challenges is your team facing this year?
- How does your team work with other departments?
Lifestyle and fit
- What are the hours like in a normal week and a busy one?
- How much of the work is remote, in office or traveling?
- What kind of person tends to thrive in this role?
- What kind of person tends to struggle?
- What's the typical career path after this role?
Closing
- Is there anything I should have asked but didn't?
- Is there anyone else you think I should talk to?
- Are there any resources, groups or events you'd recommend?
- Would it be okay if I kept in touch as I make progress?
How to run the conversation
- Arrive or log in on time. Treat it as seriously as a job interview.
- Open with a 30-second introduction. Who you are and what you're trying to figure out. Our guide to tell me about yourself helps you keep it short.
- Ask your questions and listen. Let them talk; take brief notes.
- Watch the time. At about 18 minutes, say you want to respect their time.
- Close with question 28. A second introduction is often the most valuable result.
Following up
- Same day: a short thank you that mentions one piece of advice you'll act on.
- A few weeks later: a quick update on what you did with their advice.
- If you apply to their company later: you can tell them, and ask if they'd be comfortable referring you. Let them say no easily.
When informational interviews help most
- When you're changing careers and need to know what the new field is really like
- When you're choosing between two specialties or roles
- Before applying to a company, to understand the team and culture
- When you're a student deciding what to focus on
The questions you ask a recruiter are different; see questions to ask a recruiter. And when you reach the real interview, prepare questions for the end of the interview using what you learned here.
Prepare for the interviews that follow
When an informational chat turns into a real interview, rehearse with YesToTheOffer using your resume and the job description, then review your transcript. 30 free minutes, no subscription.
