In part 1 we explored why Informational Interviews are important and how to go about arranging them.

In part 2 we'll look at what to do once you've secured one and how you can show up professionally and make a great first impression!

What does showing up professionally actually mean?

It means being on time, valuing the person's time and preparing well to show your appreciation for the advice and insights this professional person will share with you.

Use all those great communications skills of yours- ask open ended questions, listen actively and be engaged. Make notes as you go along to help you really visualise their career path and jot down keywords and information. Remember this is this person's journey so don't pass any kind of judgement on it or agree or disagree with career decisions - -this is their experience, just like yours will be yours.

What kinds of questions should I ask them?

It's so important to have thoughtful questions to ask and not questions that are easily answered from a quick Google search. This is not an effective use of their time. You'll have already decided on the topics you personally want to cover that you want insight into such as their career path, the work environment, work life balance, career progression, job hunting advice etc.

Other examples could be:

• What advice would you give to someone starting their career in this area?
• What resources or experiences helped you reach your current position?
• Could you explain your career journey and the decisions you took to reach your current position?
• How do you stay up to date with trends in the industry?
• How is AI impacting this industry?

Remember, the goal of an informational interview is NEVER to ask for a job. It is to get valuable insight to help you in your career decisions. See the suggested resources below for more question examples.

Referrals and network building:

Informational Interviews are fantastic ways to build your professional network so at the end of the interview always ask whether they know anyone else they think it would be interesting to talk to. If you have built rapport they might refer you to others in their network. Don't for get to ask what professional bodies would they recommend you join as a student and what networking events would be useful to attend?

Post interview etiquette:

Always send a thankyou note to your interviewee to stay front of mind with them and let them know you'll and keep them updated on your progress. This lets you keep the door open for future contact. See this as the start of a potential professional relationship.

So, what did you learn?

• Once the dust has settled you can reflect and assess and turn what you have learned into action.
• What do you know now that you didn't before?
• Do you still feel the same way about that career, that industry and that company?
• Did you test any earlier assumptions that you had?
• Are there skills gaps you've identified?
• Is there any training that you need to factor in?

Once you have had a chance to get several informational interviews under your belt, you can analyse and synthesise the different information and perspectives that have been shared with you.

• Use any insights to review your current CV, your online presence, how you craft cover letters and prepare for interviews.
• Develop a plan to address any upskilling or training and by set yourself some SMART short term, midterm, and long-term goals so you can use the momentum of any informational interviews to position you well for your dream career.

Possible challenges

No one likes being turned down or ignored and you won't get a Yes every time you reach out but when you do get a yes, it'll be from someone who is invested in helping you, perhaps because someone did the same for them when they started out. Don't let Fear hold you back. All anyone can say is no. The important thing is to not take it personally and use any feedback from any Nos to improve your outreach technique. Remember; your request is a compliment to their career achievements so frame your request as an opportunity for them to share their knowledge and expertise.

Finally, what asking for informational interviews say about You

Informational interviews show you're someone who is invested and motivated in their career development. They're a proactive and effective way to navigate the early stages of your career, you'll gain invaluable insights, strengthen your network, build your personal brand, and enhance your confidence in your career journey. Start planning for your Informational Interview today!

Suggested Resources

> Online resource: Informational Interview questions with examples and tips
> Video: Information Interviews Best questions to ask.
> Video: 5 Informational Interview Mistakes to avoid

By Anna Gordon - Certified Business Coaching Psychologist ABP CBCP