Informational Interview Guide
Informational interviews are a valuable way to learn from professionals, explore career paths, and build meaningful connections. This guide provides essential tips, strategies, and sample questions to help Post University students approach informational interviews with confidence and purpose.
What is an informational interview?
A short conversation with someone working in a field, job, or organization you want to learn about. It is not a job interview. It is a research tool that helps you understand real career paths, clarify your interests, and gather real-world insight.
Why it matters
- Gives you a clearer picture of day-to-day work
- Helps you test interest areas before committing
- Builds confidence and communication skills
- Expands your network in a low-pressure way
How to Prepare
- Identify someone to speak with
- Alumni found through Post University’s LinkedIn page:
- Professionals you meet at events
- Family, friends, or community connections
- Faculty or advisors who can recommend contacts
- Research before the meeting
- Look up their role, organization, and general field so your questions are informed and respectful of their time.
- Request the conversation
- Be brief and clear. State who you are, what you’re exploring, and that you are seeking insight, not a job.
Subject: Request for a brief conversation to learn about your career path
Hello [Name],
My name is [Your Name], and I’m a student at Post University exploring potential career paths in [industry or field]. I came across your profile on LinkedIn and noticed your experience in [specific role, organization, or sector]. Your background stood out to me, and I would appreciate the chance to learn more about the work you do and how you got started.
If you’re open to it, I’d be grateful for 15–20 minutes for a brief conversation. I’m not looking for a job or internship; I’m hoping to better understand the field and gain perspective as I’m exploring my options. I’m flexible and can adjust to a time that works best for you.
Thank you for considering this. I appreciate your time.
Best,
[Your Name]
About their path
- How did you get started in this field
- What led you to your current role
- What decisions shaped your early career
About their work
- What does a typical day look like
- What skills matter most in your role
- What do you find most challenging or most rewarding
About the field
- What trends are shaping your industry
- What should someone exploring this field understand early
- What skills or experiences would help me test my fit
About next steps
- What would you suggest I explore or learn at this stage
- Are there introductory roles or experiences that provide a good introduction
- Is there anyone else you recommend I speak with
Subject: Thank you for your time today
Hello [Name],
Thank you again for taking the time to speak with me today. I appreciated hearing about your experience in [their field or role], especially your insight on [specific point you found valuable]. It helped me better understand what the work looks like and how I might continue exploring this direction.
I’ll be looking into the resources and next steps you shared. Thank you again for your time and for being willing to share your perspective.
Best,
[Your Name]
• Send your thank you message within 24 hours
• Complete any next steps they recommended
• Stay connected with occasional updates when appropriate