A Guide for Informational Interviews - TCT.pdf
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- Wow all of this is spot on, thank you so much for writing this!! I second all of this, especially having a clear agenda.
If possible, see what information is out there first, so you aren't having that person give information that they have given out already. If they have written an article or something of that nature, maybe ask to chat for a few minutes on a very specific topic you found interesting from the article or podcast, etc.
Informational interviews are really about truly gathering information. Sometimes they can lead to wonderful relationships and even job opportunities down the road, but this shouldn't be an expectation of an informational interview; so avoid directly asking to be connected to their hiring manager or asking for a referral.
- “I love it when people make it easy for me to help them or connect with them”
- “I love your point about making everything stupid simple, it’s so valid!”
- “Yes! Would also love to include “When adding me as a connection, ALWAYS include a message! It helps to know who you are and why you are requesting a connection””
- “I've had a few interactions that left me feeling a bit annoyed because of the questions asked and lack of gratitude for my time. I definitely agree with doing your research first and then having a specific ask.”
- I second this! I'm always happy to make a connection and share some tips, my background, and experience with a non-clinical transition, but I have had some calls that left me feeling not so great. I think sometimes in this space it's easy to come off as presumptuous or expectant without realizing it. Lauren Sheehan
these are such great tips, especially the first one. Thanks for sharing!