Informational Interviews are a Form of Networking

Informational Interviews are a Form of Networking People have asked me why I dont talk about informational interviews in my networking workshops.   The answer is that informational interviews ARE a form of networking. An informational interview, an informational meeting is a better term, means talking with someone about what they do and/or what their company does to learn and get questions answered. What Is The Purpose of Informational Interviews? An informational interview aka networking is simply having conversations with people. As a job seeker, networking becomes defined as looking for a job. It is absolutely more than this. Are people really willing to take time to speak with you about this?   It depends. There has to be a good reason or they have to see value in investing time meeting with someone. A classic sales term is WIIFM.   What is in it for me.   What will someone get in return? When you are asking for an informational meeting, what is in it for them? How will they benefit from talking to you about what they do? These are some of the reasons someone would be willing to talk to you: A boost to their ego Makes them feel like they have done something helpful It is a payback or favor to a friend Sourcing for future hiring needs How To Ask For An Informational Meeting How you ask for the meeting is key. Using the right language/words/tone of voice makes all the difference in securing the meeting. Here are some tips: Use the Referral Source Early You can request an informational meeting either in person, through email or by phone. It doesnt matter how you ask the person for the meeting. What does matter is mentioning the name of the person who referred you (recommended you speak to them) early in your message. Mentioning a referral source, someone you both know, makes it feel less risky. Keep in mind, a little honest flattery is helpful. I was speaking with Sarah Doe and she highly recommended that I speak with you about _______________ (occupation or company name).   Sarah says you are extremely knowledgeable and would be helpful in my quest for information in this area. State the Purpose of Your Meeting Once youve proven youre not a dangerous stalker, you can clarify what information you are looking for. (You are not looking for a jobyet. You are trying to see if your skills and experience will fit into that organization.) I would enjoy meeting with you to discuss what you feel are the most valuable assets of people in your field. or Based on your tenure in the field of [industry/occupation], I was hoping to learn from you some of the day-to-day challenges you face and how you stay current? Be Prepared to Handle Objections Sometimes the response you get isnt really a rejection. Be prepared to handle any of these responses: Im really busy Im not the right person If you are looking for a job, talk to HR We arent hiring right now None of these responses really mean no. Dont give up. How To Respond To An Objection If they say they are busy, ask when they will have more time to meet either before or after work. They are the right person because you were referred to them. Reinforce that their experience in the organization makes them exactly the right person. They understand how the organization works and thats important. If they direct you to talk to HR or say that their company isnt hiring, then your request probably included the fact that you are looking for a job. Move forward and say something like: While I am exploring new opportunities, Im more interested in learning about your organization and your experience working for them. Would you have just 30 minutes to meet?   If you receive an answer other than yes, it means that the person doesnt feel like it is safe or worth their time. Flattery will get you everywhere, try feeding them some.   Also, remind them of who referred you. A little bit of guilt can be a wonderful leverager. Is There A Hidden Agenda? Honestly, there isnt a hidden agenda. Your purpose for the meeting is to gather information. You do not know yet whether you would want to work for that organization. Thats why you want a meeting to learn more! Your conversation may or may not lead to your wanting anything more from them. And you never know. You may find you have things in common with the person you meet with and this conversation could result in a new friendship. Confirming The Informational Interview When you do land a meeting, remember to verify the time and location and send a reminder the day before. And provide the person with your mobile phone number just in case. The Format of The Meeting You have asked for the meeting so you determine the agenda. Arrive early and be prepared! Here is the agenda for an informational meeting and more tips to make your networking meetings more successful. Always Send A Thank You Message After informational interviews, you should always send a thank you message. Email or regular mail is fine. What you say in your message is more important. Heres what to include: Thank them for their time Explain why what you learned was helpful State what your next steps will be (the take-away from the meeting) Set the expectation you will follow up You should also follow up with the person who referred you to let them know how the conversation went.