Conducting
informational interviews is an excellent
way to research companies and find out more
about career fields and potential job leads.
When you write a letter requesting an informational
interview, make it clear that your purpose
is to get information and advice—not
to get a job.
In
the letter, introduce yourself and why you
are writing. Indicate that you will follow
up with a phone call to arrange a meeting
time or a telephone interview at a time
that is convenient to the employer. Do not
enclose a resume—you are not asking
for a job. If the contact was suggested
to you by someone, make sure you include
this information. If you did get the contact
from an acquaintance, ask him/her for advice
and comments on the best approach for asking
for the interview.
When
writing a letter requesting an information
interview, do the following:
- Introduce
yourself and your purpose for writing.
-
Briefly describe your background and why
you are interested in the contact’s
industry, career field, or organization.
-
Let the contact know up front how they
can help you.
-
Set a time frame of when you intend to
follow up by telephone.
-
Be brief and professional.
By
CESER, the Center for Employment Education
and Research
