CareerJournal article: Informational interviews are still a big part of the job market landscape, but nobody likes to talk about them.
"I'm thinking about a career change and would love to go on a few informational interviews to learn more about the fields I am considering. But I rarely hear anyone talk about informational interviews anymore. Are people still giving them or are they too worried about their own jobs to take the time? How would I go about setting one up? Who should I target? Are certain questions off limits?"
"In this tight job market, an informational interview can give you the edge you need to get hired by establishing a good connection at a prospective firm."
"This kind of interview can also give you a realistic idea of what a job at the company might entail – and whether it's a good fit."
"People who like to give these kinds of interviews are out there; you just have to find them."
"Position yourself as someone worth taking the time to meet."
"Websites such as LinkedIn make it even easier."
"Once you've landed the appointment, don't go to the meeting unprepared. Read up on industry trends and talk with other professionals in the field and use the information as a conversation starting point."
"Don't wear out your welcome. Ask for half an hour—and don't go a minute over."
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