Informational Interview

WHAT IS AN INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEW?

An informational interview is an opportunity for you to talk with someone who is actually working in a pathway of interest to you.  This opportunity will take place at your “hosts” place of work.  Your goal will be to learn as much as possible by listening, asking good questions and taking good notes.  You will be prepared for your informational interview, but you will have to fulfill your responsibilities.

WHY DO I DO AN INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEW?

The goal of an informational interview is to obtain relevant first hand information regarding a specific career from someone who is currently working in that field.  Most people are happy to talk with others who are enthusiastic and interested in their career field, their job and their company.  This is not a job placement or a pre-employment interview.

WHAT IS IN IT FOR ME?

You may be wondering how the informational interview will help you in your education.  Here are a few things that you will gain from completing this opportunity:

• You will learn firsthand what really goes on in the workplace.
• You can explore a career in which you might have an interest.
• You will understand what is needed to get different jobs.
• You will learn part of the process of career exploration.
• You will have fun!

HOW DO I DO AN INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEW?

An informational interview usually lasts between 15-30 minutes, depending on the type of business and the amount of time the employer can offer.  Follow the guidelines that are provided in the informational interview overview packet.

1) Create a folder on your network drive entitled the name of the business where you would like to complete an interview.

2) Save the following documents to this folder:

Checklist Work Based Learning
Research
Contact Verification
Transportation
Interview Questions
Thank you note
Journal

3) Complete each document regarding the desired location of your informational interview.