Informational Interview Activities for Adults

Everyone · Activities · Updated October 1, 2026 · LearnLife Editorial

What is an informational interview and why practice it with activities?

An informational interview is a casual, non-job-seeking conversation where someone learns about a career, company, or industry from a knowledgeable person. Practicing informational interviews through activities helps adults develop essential skills such as question formulation, active listening, networking, and professional communication. This preparation increases confidence and effectiveness in real interviews and career exploration. Whether in classrooms or at home, these activities simulate real-world conditions for skill building.

How can role-playing help adults prepare for informational interviews?

Age/Grade fit: Adults of all ages Time needed: 30-45 minutes Materials: Sample job descriptions or career profiles, question list templates Steps:

1. Pair participants or use small groups.
2. Assign roles: interviewer (adult practicing) and interviewee (role-player with a career profile).
3. The interviewer asks prepared questions, and the role-player responds based on the profile.
4. Switch roles to practice both sides.
5. Provide feedback on question clarity, listening skills, and professionalism.

Skill built: Communication, confidence, question crafting, active listening Debrief: Discuss what questions felt most insightful, difficulties encountered, and improvements for tone or follow-up questions. Adaptation: At home, adults can role-play with family or friends or record themselves practicing to self-evaluate. In classrooms, teachers can assign profiles and provide immediate peer feedback.

What steps are involved in researching a professional before an informational interview?

Age/Grade fit: Adults Time needed: 20-30 minutes Materials: Internet access, note-taking tools Steps:

1. Choose a professional or industry to explore.
2. Search online for company websites, LinkedIn profiles, or industry news.
3. Identify key points like career path, current role, skills required, and recent projects.
4. Develop focused questions based on this research.

Skill built: Research, critical thinking, question development Debrief: Share research findings and question lists with peers or mentors to refine approach and gain diverse perspectives. Adaptation: At home, adults can use online resources freely and possibly reach out to contacts for preliminary information. In classrooms, instructors can guide research and group discussions to compare findings.

How does creating tailored questions improve the informational interview experience?

Age/Grade fit: Adults Time needed: 15-25 minutes Materials: Question templates, career information sources Steps:

1. Review researched information about the professional or field.
2. Use templates to brainstorm open-ended questions about job duties, industry trends, or career advice.
3. Prioritize questions based on curiosity and relevance.
4. Practice asking these questions aloud or in pairs.

Skill built: Question formulation, prioritization, engagement strategies Debrief: Reflect on which questions sparked the most detailed answers or interest. Discuss how to adapt questions on the spot if conversations shift. Adaptation: At home, use voice recording to practice tone and flow. In classrooms, conduct group brainstorming to diversify question options.

How can reflection journals enhance learning after informational interviews?

Age/Grade fit: Adults Time needed: 10-20 minutes per entry Materials: Journals or digital note apps Steps:

1. After each informational interview or practice session, write about what was learned.
2. Note surprises, useful advice, communication challenges, and emotional responses.
3. Identify next steps or improvements for future conversations.

Skill built: Self-assessment, retention, goal setting Debrief: Encourage sharing journal insights in small groups or with coaches to receive feedback and encouragement. Adaptation: At home, use private journaling or digital apps. In classrooms, set regular journaling sessions with prompts.

What role does networking mapping play in preparing for informational interviews?

Age/Grade fit: Adults Time needed: 30 minutes Materials: Paper, pens, or digital mind-mapping tools Steps:

1. List current contacts: friends, family, coworkers, community members.
2. Identify who works in industries or roles of interest.
3. Map connections with potential informational interview targets.
4. Develop a plan for reaching out with personalized messages.

Skill built: Networking strategy, relationship building, outreach planning Debrief: Discuss obstacles in reaching contacts and brainstorm solutions or alternatives. Adaptation: At home, adults can focus on personal networks and online platforms. In classrooms, group activities can simulate expanding networks through role play.

How can simulated phone or video informational interviews boost confidence?

Age/Grade fit: Adults Time needed: 20-40 minutes Materials: Phone or video conferencing tools, scenarios Steps:

1. Set up mock phone or video calls with peers or instructors acting as professionals.
2. Practice introductions, question asking, and closing remarks.
3. Record calls if possible to review tone, pace, and clarity.
4. Give and receive constructive feedback.

Skill built: Remote communication, professionalism, adaptability Debrief: Discuss challenges specific to virtual communication such as technical issues or body language cues. Adaptation: At home, schedule calls with mentors or friends. In classrooms, instructors can organize virtual role plays.

What are some simple icebreaker activities to start informational interview practice sessions?

Age/Grade fit: Adults Time needed: 10-15 minutes Materials: None or simple prompts Steps:

1. Use questions like "What is one career you admire and why?" or "Describe a skill you want to develop."
2. Share answers in pairs or small groups to build comfort.
3. Transition into the main interview practice with eased nerves.

Skill built: Communication, rapport building, self-awareness Debrief: Reflect on how icebreakers helped reduce anxiety and promoted openness. Adaptation: At home, start self-reflection or casual chats before interview practice. In classrooms, use as warm-up to create a supportive environment.

How can adults adapt informational interview activities for home or classroom settings?

In classrooms, activities benefit from group interaction, peer feedback, and instructor guidance. Structured timelines and shared resources create a collaborative learning space. At home, adults can customize timing, practice with family or friends, and use technology for remote role plays or research. Self-directed journaling and networking mapping encourage autonomy. Both settings should emphasize debriefing to solidify learning and boost confidence.

Frequently asked questions

How long should an informational interview last?

Typically, an informational interview lasts between 20 to 30 minutes. This length allows enough time for meaningful questions and answers without overwhelming either party. Practicing in shorter sessions can build comfort before conducting longer interviews.

Can informational interviews lead directly to job offers?

Informational interviews are primarily for learning and networking, not job offers. However, they can lead to job opportunities by creating connections, gaining referrals, and demonstrating professionalism to potential employers.

What if I don’t know anyone to interview?

Start by mapping your existing network—friends, family, neighbors—and use online platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals. Community groups and career centers can also help find interview contacts.

How should I follow up after an informational interview?

Send a thank-you note expressing appreciation and highlighting what you found valuable. This keeps the connection positive and may open doors for future conversations or opportunities.

How do I handle nervousness during an informational interview?

Preparation is key—practice your questions, research the professional, and conduct role-plays. Remember the interview is a learning conversation, not a test. Breathing exercises and positive self-talk can also help calm nerves.