Information interviewing
Information interviewing is a way of researching or gathering information about jobs and possible careers by interviewing people who already work in similar jobs. You can interview people over the phone or make an appointment to go in for a face to face interview. Always remember that it is not an interview for a job but an interview to gather information.
Why should I do it?
Tips for information interviewing
Questions to Ask
Where do I find people/companies to approach?
Why should I do it?
- You can gather the most up-to-date information about the qualifications, skills and experience you need to apply for particular jobs.
- You can gather the most up-to-date information on market place trends in the field.
- You can use the information to help you make job and career choices.
- You can use the information to produce the best resume and letter of application for your future job search.
- You can make valuable contacts in the industry on whom you may be able to call in your future job search.
Tips for information interviewing
- Never confuse it with a job interview - be clear about your intention to interview for information only.
- Make a definite appointment for a particular period of time, usually 10-20 minutes. Arrive and leave on time.
- Dress as if you are attending a job interview.
- Send a thank you note. This indicates your commitment and attitude to the job search process.
- Summarise your findings after each interview. Keep your records organised.
- Maintain a future action plan and keep revisiting it.
Questions to Ask
- Be prepared - arrive with a list of questions.
- What are the major tasks/responsibilities of your job?
- How did you get into this job?
- What are the skills/attributes required?
- What are the positive/negative aspects or challenges/problems of your job?
- How are vacancies in the industry or at that company advertised?
- Could you tell me about related jobs in a similar field? (to broaden your outlook.)
- Could you please refer me to some one else to talk to in the industry? May I use your name? (Talking to several employers in different companies assists you build up a total picture of the industry and not just information about a specific job in a specific company.)
Where do I find people/companies to approach?
- Ask your family, friends and acquaintances (or ask if they have any family, friends or acquaintances) who might know someone who works in the job or career you are interested in.
- Use your careers library to gather information about who to contact.
- Ring the personnel/human resources department of companies you are interested in and ask them if they can assist you.
- Professional associations can also be a source of help. You might be able to talk to one of their members.
- Lecturers/Tutors may be able to refer you to the appropriate person within a company.
