Many people feel uncomfortable about contacting others for an informational because they do not wish to impose on others, or believe that if contacts know that they are looking for work, they will not agree to the meeting.  However, if you make it clear that you are approaching contacts to gather information and receive advice, rather than asking for a job, most people will be willing to meet with you.  This meeting is generally referred to as an informational interview.

Start by contacting the people with whom you are most comfortable.  Prepare your opening sentences and practice before calling.  A typical opening could be:  Hi _______, thanks for taking/returning my call.  (First and last name of the person who referred you) suggested I contact you because of your extensive experience in (career field or industry).  I am interested in finding out more information about the work you do.  I’d like to make an appointment to meet with you briefly to hear your ideas and feedback about my career strategy and how best to market myself.  I promise not to ask for a job or even ask if you know of any job openings!

In your opener, remember to include six important points:

• The name of the person who referred you or a common connection, such as Seton Hall;
• You have an interest in a particular career field and or industry;
• You are looking for information about the industry and the contact’s organization;
• You are seeking feedback and advice about your career strategy;
• You will not ask for a job or expect the contact to know of job openings; and
• The meeting will be only 20-30 minutes maximum.

Before any informational interview, be sure to prepare a plan.  Decide on your purpose for conducting the meeting and identify the type of information you would like to obtain.  Identify target occupations or employers by researching these areas thoroughly.  Consider work environments, career areas and positions in particular organizations as potential areas to research.

Ask your contact questions based on your goals for the meeting and the results of your research.  Sample questions to ask the career contact include:

In addition to careful planning the interview agenda, be sure to:

• Outline your employment goals and cite your accomplishments;
• Wear business attire;
• Take notes during and after the interview so you can evaluate the information;
• Ask for names of additional people you can contact for information;
• Express appreciation for the interview and strictly adhere to time schedules;
• Ask for business card so you have the exact spelling of the person’s name and his/her title; and
• Always send a thank you note as a follow-up.

After the interview, take some time to evaluate your findings.  Use the information you have gathered to help refine your career interests and objectives.  You also can use the network you have developed for potential contacts to whom you can send resumes when you are ready to apply for specific jobs.

Call your contacts or send an e-mail note periodically to maintain the relationships.  If your contacts have agreed, send them an updated copy of your resume.  Notify your main contacts when you accept a job, even if they did not directly help you to find the position.  Continue to network even after you have landed the job!

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