Informational Interview is a conversation with a professional to learn about their career, industry, or company. Not a job interview, but a networking and research opportunity. Career development concepts help you make strategic decisions about your professional growth and long-term trajectory. Knowing how informational interview works helps you write a stronger resume, prepare for interviews, and read job postings accurately.
Why It Matters
Career development concepts help you make strategic decisions about your professional growth and long-term trajectory. Understanding informational interview is useful when you're updating your resume, preparing for interviews, or negotiating an offer. Employers and recruiters use this terminology regularly, and demonstrating your familiarity with it shows professionalism and industry awareness.
How to Use This in Your Job Search
Use this knowledge when planning your career path, seeking mentorship, or evaluating new opportunities. Here are practical ways to apply your knowledge of informational interview: First, incorporate relevant aspects into your resume and cover letter. Second, be prepared to discuss it during interviews. Third, use this understanding when evaluating job opportunities and company cultures.
Examples
Coffee meeting with an industry professional
Virtual 30-minute career chat
Alumni career conversation
Tips for Job Seekers
Research how informational interview applies specifically to your target industry
Practice explaining informational interview in simple terms for interviews
Look for informational interview mentions in job descriptions you're targeting
Connect with professionals who can share their experience with informational interview
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not considering Informational Interview in your career planning
Underestimating the importance of Informational Interview for growth
Making decisions without understanding Informational Interview implications
Put your knowledge to work
Create a professional resume that demonstrates your understanding of industry terminology.
Related Terms
View all termsFAQs About Informational Interview
Common questions answered
More Career Terms
Continue learning about career concepts
Career Change
The process of transitioning from one profession or industry to another, often requiring new skills, education, or networking. Can be motivated by passion, market changes, or personal circumstances.
Career Path
The progression of jobs and roles that make up your professional journey. Can be linear (within one field) or non-linear (across industries and functions).
Networking
Building and maintaining professional relationships that can help advance your career. Includes attending events, connecting on LinkedIn, informational interviews, and maintaining existing relationships.
Transferable Skills
Skills that can be applied across different jobs, industries, or roles. Examples include communication, leadership, problem-solving, and project management.
Upskilling
The process of learning new skills to stay current in your field or advance your career. Often involves courses, certifications, or hands-on projects.
Personal Branding
The practice of marketing yourself and your career as a brand. Includes your online presence, professional reputation, and the unique value you bring to employers.