Speed up Your Job Search with an Informational Interview

Speed up Your Job Search with an Informational Interview http://www.designedalliance.com/art-informational-interviews-steps-succeed/Often I get asked about non-traditional methods of job-hunting.Job Boards, Networking events, Referrals,etc. are still prevalent today will continue to be with more people entering the workforce.However, I do not need to tell you that traditional job-hunting ,i.e applying for jobs on LinkedIn,Indeed,etc. is becoming more and more difficult because of increased competition and Application Tracking systems.evalIt is always easier to apply through someone who works at a company. But, what if you have a small network? Or you are new to a city and do not have enough contacts that you can leverage?That is where Informational Interview comes handy.What is an INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEW? It is a meeting where a potential job-seeker can gain advice on the market,opportunities,industry insights,etc.The good news is that most people are willing to help others by providing advice. Even if they cannot directly influence the h iring decision, most people are more than willing to give you advice.BENEFITS of an Informational InterviewThese type of meetings will give you a chance to do a reality check on a particular industry or company. A meeting like this can potentially save you months of heartache if you end up in the wrong career or job.Informational Interview helps you build confidence for a real job interview. Like anything, the more you practice something â€" the better you become.Informational Interview also helps you build your communication skills. You will learn the subtle and right way to ask for a meeting.It is an effective way to grow your network. Sitting down with an experienced individual for coffee or lunch is much more beneficial than having 1000 virtual contacts. Nothing beats the value of a face-to-face meeting.KEY INSIGHTS to keep in mind about Informational Interview:You The best way to arrange an Informational Interview is through a mutual acquaintance or a personal referral. This wi ll make the other person more comfortable in meeting with you. You will be surprised how many people are willing to help you get connected with the right contacts.Alternate ways to arrange an Informational Interview is email. Once you send an email follow-through with a phone call.Make it clear that you are in the process of making a career decision, and you are gathering information about various industries and options in the marketplace.Do not mention or indicate that you are looking for a job at their company.Treat the meeting as you would a regular Job interview. Dress to impress. Dress the same way you would if you are interviewing for a job at the company. Even if you are meeting at a coffee shop dress sharp. It makes a huge difference. Moreover, you come across as a Professional.As mentioned before, limit the meeting to around 20 minutes. Keep it brief and to the point. Avoid bombarding them with tons of questions. Ask focused questions.Get personal input â€" ask them what sp ecific questions about what they personally like about the company or the industry. You will learn a lot from asking personal questions.Focus on building credibility. If you come across as professional and trust-worthy, they are more inclined to help you later.This is worth mentioning again. Don’t leave a resume. If they ask for it, then send it later. Only send a resume if requested.Thank them when you are concluding the meeting. Also send them a follow-up thank you note.QUESTIONS to ask in an Informational InterviewIf you are not sure, what questions to ask â€" I have compiled a list of TOP 20 QUESTIONS, you can ask during an Informational Interview.In this article, we have reviewed what an Informational Interview is; what are the potential benefits; some key considerations; how to handle a successful interview; and also examples of some viable questions to ask.I am also including some Additional Resources you can refer to learn more about Informational interviews.The Art of Inf ormational Interviews: Steps to SucceedHow the Informational Interview helps you get the jobHow an Informational Interview can Help Your CareerInformational InterviewsHow to land and ace an Informational InterviewQuestions to Ask at the Informational InterviewAll the best with your Job Hunting!!