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Informational Interviewing A Way to Learn About Different Careers

Informational Interviewing What is an informational interview? A way to learn from professionals in various fields – You ask the questions (about) Real life experiences Challenges and opportunities Career paths Limitations and demands Different organizations Other possible sources of information

Informational Interviewing What are the benefits of informational interviewing? Gain firsthand, current information from professionals in fields (or at organizations) you are considering Clarify what jobs might be a good fit for you Learn what different options might be available Find out what, if any graduate school is necessary BEFORE you commit yourself to long expensive programs

Informational Interviewing What are the benefits of informational interviewing? Find out how specific organizations find interns and other employees Learn which companies are hiring Hiring cycle specifics Important timeline information Get current information on salary ranges and opportunities for advancement and professional growth

Informational Interviewing What are the benefits of informational interviewing? Build your professional network Support network for future job search Insider advice and access to non-advertised job leads Introductions to other professionals Job shadowing opportunities

Informational Interviewing Informational Interview Questions: What qualifications do I need to gain an entry-level position in your career field? What are the characteristics and skills of successful people in this career or organization? Do you belong to or know of any professional organizations that you recommend I join as a student?

Informational Interviewing Informational Interview Questions: What experience and skillset do you suggest I pursue to be a strong candidate in this field? What is a typical day like on the job for you? What do you enjoy most/least about your current work? How much variety is there on a day-to-day basis?

Informational Interviewing Informational Interview Questions: What kind of work/internship experience would employers look for in a job applicant? What are the employment prospects in your geographic area? Where are the best employment prospects? Is mobility a necessary factor for success?

Informational Interviewing Informational Interview Questions: What are some related occupations? What are the salary ranges for these occupations? What types of technology are used and how are they used? Is there a set schedule in this field or are the hours flexible?

Informational Interviewing Informational Interview Questions: What are the toughest problems and decisions with which you must cope? What are the most satisfying aspects of your work? What do you know about this field now that you wish you had known when you were a student? Can you suggest other professionals who may be valuable sources of information?

Informational Interviewing Steps to Successful Informational Interviewing: Develop your contact list – Identify professionals You already know In professional organizations Alumni groups Career Advice Network (login via Sun Devil CareerLink) LinkedIn groups

Informational Interviewing Steps to Successful Informational Interviewing: Ask for the interview Call, , or In-message Briefly identify yourself Explain how you found him/her Ask for minutes of time At his/her convenience To discuss career paths, job responsibilities, etc

Informational Interviewing Steps to Successful Informational Interviewing: Prepare in advance Research the company and the individual Prepare your questions before the interview Plan to explain why you are interested in the field Brief, seconds

Informational Interviewing Steps to Successful Informational Interviewing: Conduct an effective meeting Start and end the interview on time Get as much information as you can in the time allowed Be clear and concise about your needs and interests Take notes throughout the interview Say “Thank You”

Informational Interviewing Steps to Successful Informational Interviewing: Follow Up Send a brief thank you note within 24 hours of the interview Periodically stay in touch Share industry information (2 way street) Keep track of your contacts Start building your network now

Informational Interviewing Steps to Successful Informational Interviewing: Attend professional events Fulton engineering mixers and career panels Engineering Career Exploration Night University events NOTE – Although informational interviewing may eventually lead to a job or internship opportunity, do NOT treat this as another way to ask for a job

Informational Interviewing Steps to Successful Informational Interviewing: REFLECT. ACT. Now that you have all of this information, do something with it What did you like about the career? What did you dislike about the career? Can you do it? Do you want to do it? Do you have follow-up questions? Schedule another meeting Go to O*NETonline and company websites to find out more about careers Make an appointment with the Engineering Career Center, an academic advisor, a professor or someone who can help get you to the next steps

Informational Interviewing Additional Resources: ASU Fulton Engineering Career Center ASU Career Services UCLA w.aspx w.aspx UC Berkeley

For More Information Connect with Fulton Engineering Career Center Phone: (480) Website: Sun Devil CareerLink: MyASU>Campus Services>Jobs & Careers>Sun Devil CareerLink Facebook: Engineering Career Center Arizona State University 20