Informational interviewing provides a non-pressured situation where you can gain first-hand information about the field, position, or company you are researching. It's also a wonderful way to build a network for future contacts and leads.

Use your personal, professional, and academic networks to identify a professional in your field of interest. Your networks may include your family, friends, classmates, professors, alumni, and career counselors at the Career Services Center.

Make sure to ask your referral source if you may use his or her name when contacting the professional you would like to interview.

Feel free to write out a script or notes for yourself for the initial phone call. Make sure to let the person know why you are calling and what kind of information you hope to get from the meeting. Mention your source of referral if you have gained the referral source’s permission to do so.

Ask the person for 20-30 minutes in person or over the phone. In-person meetings, at their place of employment, are ideal since you get a chance to make a more lasting impression and to see the work environment.

Be sure to allow your contact to set the time and place that is most convenient. If the work schedule is too busy, suggest meeting over lunch, during a coffee break, or after working hours.

If talking to people you’re not familiar with makes you a little nervous, then practice by yourself, with a friend, or with your career counselor before making the call and/or conducting the informational interview.

Learn something about your contact's company (Internet).

Prepare a list of questions you would like to ask and prepare to dress for success.

Bring a portfolio with notepad that includes your questions and a pen. For an outstanding impression, a personal business card--make your own or have them made. All you need is name, phone, email. Keep it professional. Some folks put a line or two to indicate their specialty.

Be sure that you are ready to give a brief synopsis of your background and why you are interviewing them - your expanded "30-second commercial."

You may bring a copy of your resume with you, but do not ask for a job. This interview is for information gathering.

Be sure to arrive 10-15 minutes early and treat everyone you meet in a professional manner.

Remember to relax; be professional, but friendly. Since you are seeking information and not a job, the meeting is yours to control.

Greet the interviewer by formal name and with a firm handshake.

Do not spend more than the agreed upon time unless the professional insists.

Ask your questions as the opportunity arises. If the professional thinks different topics would be more beneficial to discuss, go with it.

At the end, thank the professional for his or her time and assistance. Shake hands as you leave.

Immediately after the interview write down the answers to the questions you asked. This is very important, as the answers are still fresh in your mind. Make sure to note additional contact names offered by the professional.

Send a thank you note within two days after the interview. Thank the professional for taking the time to meet with you and for the information provided. Mention anything that was particularly helpful for you.

Keep your contacts updated on your career progress. Some may have job leads for you in the future. Let them know when you have followed-up with contact names they gave you. Some will be interested in your career success. Always maintain a professional relationship with any contacts.

If you would like additional information, please see the CSC Informational Interviewing handout, or make an appointment with a career counselor to discuss your questions further.