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Informational interviews

What if you could get 'inside information' about an organization you are interested in working for, or about a specific job you are applying to?

If you are thinking about switching careers, talking to someone who does the job you are interested in can give you insight into what you will — and will not — like about your desired job. For someone who has not interviewed for a job in a long time, an informational interview can also provide valuable practice before applying for jobs and going on interviews.

Informational interviews (also called information sessions, informational meetings, virtual chats, or coffee dates) are conducted to gather information to help prepare for a job interview and/or learn more about a specific job, industry, or company. However, an informational interview is not a job interview, and should not be confused with one. With an informational interview, you are not seeking a job — you are seeking information to help you get a job.

In this guide you will learn how to:

  • Send outreach emails
  • Prepare for an informational interview
  • Learn what not to do in an informational interview


You will also find a handy checklist to help you prepare for your meeting, along with links to additional resources that can assist you in your career journey. 

Read the guide:

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