The Two Most Important Words in Networking

An informational interview is a special kind of interview, often conducted over a 30-minute phone or in-person conversation at a coffee shop or restaurant.

By Ryan Catherwood

Career Connections

Hiring managers are busy, so they try to make hiring decisions as quickly, efficiently, and effectively as possible. After all, some job openings attract hundreds of applicants and the process can be overwhelming for a manager that has many other responsibilities.

It’s extremely difficult to accurately evaluate candidates simply by reviewing applications, cover letters, resumes and LinkedIn profiles. In order to make the best possible hiring decision, managers rely heavily on input from their colleagues, friends and acquaintances – that’s why candidate referrals are responsible for up to 70% of hiring decisions.

All of that brings us to the most important two words in networking: informational interviews.

All of that brings us to the most important two words in networking: informational interviews.

An informational interview is the process by which applicants can build connections that can often result in a referral. They are critical for any student hoping to land a great job or internship.

So what is an informational interview?

An informational interview is a special kind of interview, often conducted over a 30-minute phone or in-person conversation at a coffee shop or restaurant.

It is not a job interview, and informational interviews are not conducted by email or social media. Instead, informational interviews are conducted in advance of a job opening – or even when no opening currently exists –and are a chance for students to talk to professionals, often alumni, that work in the field, industry, or company the student hopes to learn more about. The goal of an informational interview is to demonstrate through research and asking good questions that the student is passionate, knowledgeable, and excited to learn.

Students often mistake informational interviews as a chance to actively sell themselves or ask for a job. That’s not their purpose, and taking that approach will not lead to a referral.

At University Career Services, preparing students for informational interviews is something we are passionate about because they can be critical to attaining a job or internship.

Longwood students or alumni that never have never facilitated an informational interview should make an appointment with University Career Services. We can help you determine whom to ask for an interview, how to ask for it, and how to prepare in advance of the meeting.