Informational Interviews

[Andrea Tringo]

I don't know if the phrase "informational interview" is still used, but it's an approach I would like to try for the first time in at least 8 years. When I hear of a company I'm really interested in, I don't want to wait for a specific job posting to contact them. I sent a polite, respectful request to an HR director for a fairly short phone conversation or meeting just to talk about her company, although I'm not a fit for the jobs she has posted now. Can anyone offer advice on:

-Subject lines for such an e-mail, so that it won't go to their junk folders?
-Language in requesting the interview ("...to discuss culture, business practices..." or something more general or more specific?)
-Key questions to ask should I be granted the interview?

Thanks in advance for any replies.

[David Sandusky]

Informational interviews is certainly a good idea as a strategy to tap into the hidden job market. It is also an opportunity to add value to them when learning about other challenges and hiring needs where you could give ideas and provide referrals.

I have seen people succeed in creating opportunity and even making an offer to the company.

You can avoid the actual term "informational interview", but the agenda is the same: learning about each other for support in making connections and adding value.

Subject lines including verbal openings should be customized based on the research you have done and referral names you may be able to use. Key is to make it about them, the company and person you are asking time from -- What are their internal and external challenges - how can you support them? Buy them coffee, etc. HR, recruiters and hiring managers alike. You can support each of them differently and remain top of mind along the way. You will feel good and will stand out. Then keep the bank balance networking going.

I appreciate hearing from people who have taken the time to see what we are all about and how the person can make an impact. The high majority does not take the time. The rest are clutter and waisting their own time.

Does this approach really work? I have been trying to get informational interviews since reading this post and have had no success?

[David Sandusky]

This approach does work but it is not easy. You will feel rejection. Target companies and people where you know you will add value, do your homework and make your pitch - keeping in mind what is in it for them. Keep going!