Informational Interview

An informational interview is a short conversation to learn about a role, company, or industry — not to ask directly for a job. It's research that respects the other person's time and builds relationships before you need them.

Best practices: warm intro when possible, 20–30 minute ask, specific questions, never ambush with a resume unless invited. Follow up with thanks and a note on what you applied.

Informational interviews are how you scout advisors and pivots without committing. Connectors often grant them first; repeated good follow-up can deepen into mentorship. Track conversations in your decision journal to spot patterns across interviews.