The very best way to get accurate information about a career field is to talk to someone who is currently working in that field. No one else can give you a better sense of the ups and downs and ins and outs of that field. Most professionals have no hesitations about helping an aspiring newcomer as long as you are asking for information and not a job. Here are some tips on how to obtain and conduct an informational interview. If you have any questions, please consult a Career Services staff member.
Identify occupations you want to explore and people you want to interview. This can be anybody who had a job that you find interesting. Talk to the Career Service counselors, your parents, friends, and others around you to see if they know anyone in this field. Also check with your professors to see if they know of anyone in the community or alumni who might be helpful.
Call or e-mail the person(s) you wish to interview. Introduce yourself and explain that you are interested in their career field and are looking for information. It is always good to state how you got their name if you don't know them. Explain that you would like to arrange a time for a telephone interview or for you to come and talk to them in person. You will only need approximately a half an hour. State in your letter that you will call them (give a specific time frame) to arrange an interview time.
Follow up with a phone call during the time frame that you stated in your letter. Reintroduce yourself, ask if they received your letter, and state the purpose of your call. The best time to contact someone at work is before 10:00 a.m. and after 4:00 p.m. If you are calling them at home, call between 7:30 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. Be prepared to leave a message if you can't get through to the person you wish to talk to. Ask the secretary when the best time to call back is. It is probably better not to ask them to call you back.
Prepare yourself for the interview by researching the organization and career field. Trust your instincts, what do you want to know? Ask questions which focus on: job preparation, life style, job outlook, job routine, job search techniques, resume writing,and interviewing depending on whether you are there to learn about the career field or to get advice on your job search (see reverse side for sample questions). Dress appropriately for the interview and take notes if you wish. Try to leave the interview with the name of at least one other person to contact. You might ask, "Would you be able to suggest names of other people I could talk with about my interest in this area?"
Write a thank you note after your interview. This is not optional. This will make the interviewee feel appreciated and help keep you in mind if an internship or a job does become available. A sample letter is available in Career Services.