An informational interview is a casual, low-pressure conversation with a professional who works in a field, company, or role you are interested in learning more about. It is not a job interview — the goal is not to land a position. Rather, it is to gather insider knowledge, learn about career paths, understand what skills matter most, and build genuine professional relationships.

Informational interviews are one of the most powerful but underused networking tools. Many jobs are filled through referrals and internal networks before a job posting ever goes public. These conversations get you visible to people in those networks.

Why Informational Interviews Work

They bypass the application process

Many jobs are filled through referrals before a posting goes public. These conversations get you visible to hiring networks.

They build genuine relationships

When someone invests 20 minutes in you, this relationship can lead to future referrals, mentorship, or job opportunities.

They provide insider perspective

You learn things no job description will tell you — the actual day-to-day work, company culture, and skills that matter most.

They accelerate learning

Instead of guessing what a role requires, you ask people who do it. You learn what matters and what pitfalls to avoid.

How to Request an Informational Interview — Email Template

The request email is critical — it needs to be respectful of their time, clear about your intent, and compelling enough to get a yes.

Subject: 15-Minute Chat — [Your Name], [Field/Role]

Dear [Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I am [your background], and I am interested in learning more about careers in [field/industry]. I came across your profile and was impressed by [specific detail about their work or background].

I would be grateful if you would be open to a brief 15-20 minute call (or coffee chat) where I could ask you a few questions about your experience and your advice for someone interested in this field. I am genuinely interested in learning from your perspective.

I am flexible on timing and can work around your schedule. I have suggested a few times below, but I am happy to work around your availability:
— [Specific dates/times]
— [Specific dates/times]

If now is not a good time, I completely understand — I know you are busy. Thank you for considering this request.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

Alternative approaches:

If you have a warm referral:

"Dear [Name], I was referred to you by [Referrer Name], who thought your experience in [field] would be incredibly valuable to me as I explore this career path. I would love to grab 15 minutes for a quick call if you are open to it."

If you are a career changer or returner:

"Dear [Name], I am transitioning into [field] and was particularly interested in reaching out because of your background in [specific area]. I would greatly appreciate 15-20 minutes to pick your brain about the skills that matter most in this transition."

If you met them in person:

"Hi [Name], it was great meeting you at [event] last week. I really enjoyed our conversation about [topic]. Would you be open to continuing that discussion over a quick call?"

20+ Questions to Ask in an Informational Interview

Prepare 5-7 of your best questions before the call. You will not get through all of them, and the conversation will naturally flow, but having questions ready prevents awkward silences and shows you have done your homework.

Career path and background

  • Can you walk me through your career journey? How did you end up in this role?
  • What was your first job in this field, and how did that lead to where you are now?
  • What pivots or changes did you make along the way, and why?
  • Looking back, what skills or experiences were most important to your progression?

The role and day-to-day work

  • Can you describe what your typical day or week looks like?
  • What do you actually spend most of your time on in this role?
  • What aspects of your role do you find most fulfilling?
  • What are the biggest challenges in your role, and how do you handle them?
  • What tools, software, or technologies do you use most frequently?

Skills and qualifications

  • What skills matter most for success in this role? (Not what the job description says — what actually matters?)
  • Are there skills you have that you use all the time that you did not expect to need?
  • What qualifications do people in this field typically have? Are certifications or degrees necessary?
  • What skills or knowledge do you wish you had developed earlier in your career?

Industry and market

  • How is your industry changing right now?
  • What are the biggest trends or challenges you are seeing in your field?

Advice for someone interested in the field

  • If someone wanted to break into this field, what would you recommend they do?
  • What is the most common mistake you see people make when entering this field?
  • What resources, courses, books, or groups would you recommend for someone trying to learn more?
  • Are there particular companies known for developing talent well in this field?

After the Informational Interview — The Follow-Up

Within 24 hours, send a brief thank-you email:

Subject: Thank you — [Your Name]

Hi [Name],

Thank you again for taking the time to chat with me about your experience in [field]. Your insight about [specific thing they said] was particularly valuable, and it has given me a lot to think about regarding [topic].

I really appreciated your recommendation about [recommendation they made], and I will definitely [action you will take].

I will stay in touch as I progress in my learning/job search. If there is ever anything I can do to help you, please don't hesitate to reach out.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

To convert the relationship into a referral, stay in touch every few months with genuine updates, engage thoughtfully with their content on LinkedIn, and look for ways to add value to them. When the time is right, you can ask for a reference — people who have had good informational interviews are often happy to oblige.

Have Your CV Ready When the Moment Comes

If a conversation goes well and they ask to see your CV, you want to send something professional immediately. Use resum8 to ensure your CV is tailored, well-formatted, and includes the keywords most relevant to the field you are exploring.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is an informational interview the same as a coffee chat?

Largely yes. A coffee chat is often the informal version — you meet someone in person, usually at a cafe. An informational interview is the structured version with prepared questions. The goals and etiquette are similar.

Can I ask for a job during an informational interview?

Not in the initial request or conversation. If they volunteer that they are hiring or ask if you are interested in opportunities at their company, you can express interest then. But making it the goal from the start is dishonest and damages your credibility.

What if someone says no to my request?

Some people will not respond, and some will politely decline. It is not personal. Senior people are busy. Move on and find someone else. You only need a few good conversations to gain valuable insight and build relationships.

Should I bring anything to an in-person informational interview?

If you are meeting for coffee, offer to buy them a coffee ("Can I get you anything?"). Do not bring expensive gifts — it is weird. Your genuine interest and respect for their time is the gift.

How often should I reach out to someone after an informational interview?

Every few months with genuine updates or relevant content, not just "checking in." Do not overdo it. The goal is staying top-of-mind, not becoming annoying.

Can I request informational interviews if I am employed?

Absolutely. Whether you are exploring a career change, learning about adjacent roles, or building your professional network, informational interviews are valuable at any career stage.