Why an Informational Interview Is Important

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

What Is an Informational Interview in Plain Words?

An informational interview is a conversation you arrange with someone working in a field or job you want to learn more about. Unlike a job interview, its purpose is not to get hired but to ask questions and listen carefully to gain insight. Think of it as a career research tool where you get advice from someone who’s walked the path. For example, if you’re curious about working in healthcare administration, you might reach out to a hospital administrator to ask about their daily work, challenges, and suggestions for someone starting in that career. This meeting usually lasts between 20 to 30 minutes and can take place in person, over the phone, or via video call. The key is to show genuine interest and respect for the other person’s time.

How Does an Informational Interview Work? A Clear Hypothetical Example

Imagine you’re interested in becoming a software developer but don’t know where to start. You identify a local software engineer through a professional networking website and send a polite message like this: “Hi [Name], I’m exploring careers in software development and would love to learn more about your experience. Would you be willing to chat with me for 20 minutes sometime in the next two weeks?” The engineer agrees, and during the meeting, you ask about their typical day, the skills they found essential, and any advice for someone new to the field. They might say, “I spend a lot of time coding and debugging, but also attending team meetings. Learning languages like Python and JavaScript helped me a lot. Starting with online courses and building small projects was key.” After the interview, you thank them and begin exploring coding tutorials or community college classes. This example shows how an informational interview can turn vague curiosity into concrete action steps.

Why Is an Informational Interview Important for You?

Informational interviews are important because they offer access to real, firsthand knowledge that you can’t get just by reading job descriptions or online articles. They serve several purposes:

• Clarify what the job actually involves day-to-day.
• Reveal skills or certifications that matter most.
• Help you understand workplace culture and challenges.
• Expand your professional network, which can lead to future job leads.
• Reduce the risk of investing time or money in the wrong career path.

For instance, if you’re considering a career in education but aren’t sure what grade level or subject to teach, talking to teachers who work in different settings can help. You might learn that elementary school teachers spend more time on classroom management, while high school teachers focus deeply on their subject area. This helps you decide what fits your personality and skills better. Additionally, many jobs are never publicly advertised, so knowing people in the field increases your chances of hearing about hidden opportunities.

What Are Common Terms People Confuse with Informational Interviews?

Many people mix up informational interviews with job interviews or mentorship meetings. It’s vital to understand these differences to approach each correctly:

• Job interview: The employer assesses you for a specific position, and you answer questions to prove you fit the role.
• Informational interview: You ask questions to learn about a career or company, with no immediate job application involved.
• Mentoring: A longer-term relationship where an experienced person guides your career growth over months or years.

Because informational interviews are exploratory and one-time or occasional conversations, you should not ask directly for a job during them. Instead, focus on building rapport and learning. This clarity prevents awkwardness and helps you act professionally in networking situations.

How to Prepare for an Informational Interview?

Good preparation makes an informational interview productive and respectful of the other person’s time. Follow these steps:

1. Research the professional: Learn about their job title, company, and background from LinkedIn or company websites.
2. Prepare thoughtful questions: Focus on their job duties, career path, challenges, necessary skills, and advice for newcomers. Sample questions include: "What does a typical day look like for you?" "What skills or experience helped you the most?" "What are the biggest challenges in your role?" "What advice would you give to someone starting out?"
3. Set a clear goal: Know what you want to learn (e.g., what skills to develop, how to enter the field).
4. Practice your introduction: A brief statement about who you are and why you’re interested helps start the conversation smoothly. For example, “I’m currently exploring careers in environmental science and wanted to learn from your experience.”
5. Schedule thoughtfully: Choose a quiet, distraction-free place for the meeting, and confirm the time and format (phone, video, in person).
6. Bring a notebook or device: Take notes during the interview to remember key points and advice.

This preparation shows professionalism and increases the value you get from the conversation.

What Should You Do After an Informational Interview?

Following up after an informational interview is just as important as preparation. Here’s what to do:

• Send a thank-you note: Write a brief message within 24-48 hours thanking the person for their time and sharing one or two specific things you found helpful. For example: “Thank you for sharing insights into your work as a project manager. Your advice about developing strong communication skills was very valuable.”
• Reflect on what you learned: Review your notes and consider how the information affects your career plans or next steps.
• Apply the advice: If they suggested resources, courses, or connections, follow through on those recommendations.
• Keep in touch: If appropriate, send updates on your progress or new questions after some time. For example, “I started the online course you recommended and found it really useful.”
• Respect boundaries: Don’t over-message; maintain a professional and polite relationship.

Following these steps makes a positive impression, helps build lasting connections, and may open doors to future opportunities.

How Can Informational Interviews Help Your Career Long Term?

Informational interviews set the foundation for a successful career by:

• Helping you create a network of contacts who can provide advice, support, and referrals.
• Keeping you informed about industry changes, job openings, and trends.
• Offering a platform to practice professional communication and interviewing skills.
• Increasing your confidence by learning from people who have succeeded.

For example, a person interested in nonprofit work might conduct several informational interviews with fundraisers, program managers, and volunteers. Over time, these contacts may suggest volunteer roles or internships that lead to paid jobs. Moreover, these conversations can turn into mentorship relationships that boost career growth. Building a habit of informational interviewing throughout your career helps you stay connected and adaptable in changing job markets.

What Are Some Practical Tips for Successful Informational Interviews?

To make the most of informational interviews, keep these tips in mind:

• Be punctual: Show respect by being on time or logging in early for virtual meetings.
• Dress appropriately: Even a virtual meeting deserves professional attire to set the right tone.
• Listen actively: Focus on what the person says, nod, and ask follow-up questions.
• Avoid asking for a job directly: Instead, express genuine interest and ask about opportunities later in the conversation if appropriate.
• Keep the conversation positive: Avoid criticism about employers or industries.
• Limit the meeting to agreed time: If the person said 20 minutes, don’t overstay unless they invite you to continue.
• Bring a pen and paper or device: Take notes discreetly without disrupting the flow.
• Practice good body language: Smile, maintain eye contact, and sit up straight to show engagement.
• Prepare a brief personal pitch: Share a quick summary of your background when asked, such as, “I recently completed a certificate in digital marketing and am exploring career options in the field.”

Using these practices increases your chances of leaving a strong impression and building useful professional relationships.

Frequently asked questions

How do I find someone to do an informational interview with?

Start with your current network: friends, family, teachers, or coworkers. Use LinkedIn to find professionals in your desired field. When reaching out, be clear and polite, explaining your interest and requesting a brief meeting. Local professional groups or alumni associations can also help you connect.

What questions should I ask in an informational interview?

Ask about daily tasks, career path, necessary skills, industry trends, and advice for beginners. Examples include “What’s the most challenging part of your job?” or “How did you get started in this field?” Avoid salary or benefits questions; focus on learning.

Can an informational interview lead to a job offer?

The primary goal is to learn and build connections, not to secure a job immediately. However, strong relationships formed through informational interviews may lead to referrals, internships, or job opportunities later.

How long should an informational interview last?

Typically, they last between 20 and 30 minutes. This timeframe respects the interviewee’s schedule while allowing meaningful conversation.

Should I bring a resume to an informational interview?

Usually, no. The focus is on gathering information and networking, not applying for a job. If the conversation naturally shifts toward your background, have a brief summary ready to share.

What if I’m nervous about asking for an informational interview?

It’s normal to feel nervous. Start by practicing your request in writing and keep the message simple and polite. Remember, most people are happy to share advice when approached respectfully.