Informational Interviews: The Secret to Landing Your Dream Job

What if the key to your dream job isn’t in job postings or online applications?

When most people think of networking, they imagine handing out business cards at crowded events or sending cold emails to strangers. But there’s a better way to build genuine connections and unlock hidden opportunities: informational interviews.

These one-on-one conversations with experienced professionals are an opportunity for you to learn, build rapport, and position yourself as a memorable and proactive professional yourself. Informational interviews can be truly transformative for your career, and here’s how to make the most of them.

But first, what exactly is an informational interview?

An informational interview is an informal meeting (think coffee chat!) with someone in your field of interest. The goal is simple: gather insights about a company, industry, or role from someone with firsthand experience. And although it is unlike a traditional interview, because there’s no pressure to “sell yourself” or land a job on the spot, you do need to manage the impression you are making. I'll explain more about how to wow your guest below.

Why Are Informational Interviews So Powerful?

Informational interviews work because they focus on learning and connection rather than transactional asks. And you gain so much more, both in the short-term and long-term, from these types of conversations. Here’s how building connections with professionals will open doors for you:

1. You will build genuine connections

Instead of approaching networking with a “what can you do for me?” mindset, you’re showing curiosity and respect for the other person’s experience. This lays the foundation for authentic relationships that can evolve into referrals, mentorship, or future collaborations.

2. You will stand out

When a job opening arises, the professional you spoke with will remember you as the motivated individual who took the time to learn. Being top-of-mind increases your chances of being recommended for opportunities.

3. You gain insights and knowledge

Want to know what it’s really like to work at a company or in a specific role? Informational interviews give you access to insights you won’t find in job descriptions or company websites.

4. You'll boost your confidence

The more you connect with professionals in your field, the more comfortable you’ll feel discussing your skills, interests, and goals. These conversations are a low-pressure way to refine how you present yourself.

How to Get Started with Informational Interviews

Step 1: Identify the Right People

• Look for professionals in roles, industries, or companies that interest you.

• Use LinkedIn, alumni networks, or mutual connections to find potential contacts.

Step 2: Prepare Your Questions

Come ready with thoughtful questions that show you’ve done your homework, such as:

• “What do you enjoy most about your role?”

• “What skills do you think are essential for success in this field?”

• “What advice would you give someone starting out in your industry?”

Step 3: Listen and Take Notes

Let the conversation flow naturally, but prioritize listening over talking. Your goal is to learn and build rapport.

Step 4: Follow Up

After the interview, send a thank-you email expressing your appreciation. Mention a specific takeaway from the conversation to show genuine engagement.

What Informational Interviews Aren’t

It’s important to note that informational interviews aren’t about asking for a job. Instead, they’re about laying the groundwork for future opportunities by building trust and demonstrating interest.

When done right, the relationship you establish could lead to referrals or introductions down the road, but you need to manage the impression you make.

Informational interviews are one of the most underutilized tools in a job seeker’s strategy. They give you a chance to connect with professionals, learn from their experiences, and position yourself as someone worth remembering.

Every conversation is an opportunity to grow your network, uncover hidden opportunities, and build the confidence to take your career to the next level.

So, why wait? Start reaching out, and let informational interviews open the doors you’ve been looking for.