Welcome to episode #224 of the Own Your Best Life Podcast. If you’re considering switching roles or jobs, chances are you’ll be conducting informational interviews to learn about different roles, industries, or opportunities. While these conversations might seem casual, they are critical in helping you secure that next big role or opportunity.
Today, I’m breaking down 3 myths about informational interviews and sharing 3 actionable steps to ensure you’re making the most of these conversations. By the end of this episode, you’ll feel more confident and prepared for your next informational interview.
Myths About Informational Interviews
Before diving into the how-to’s, let’s bust some common myths about informational interviews:
- “It’s just a casual chat with a friend.”
While informational interviews feel informal, they require preparation. First impressions matter. Going in unprepared can come across as unprofessional or even ungrateful. - “They’re not that important.”
Think again! Here’s a stat that might surprise you: Only 1 in every 200 resumes leads to a job offer, whereas informational interviews have a success rate closer to 1 in 12. That’s a huge difference. If you’re skipping informational interviews, you’re missing a powerful tool in your job search. - “It’s all about getting the job.”
The truth is, an informational interview isn’t about landing a job on the spot. You’re there to learn, connect, and explore whether the role, organization, or industry is the right fit for you.
Now that we’ve cleared the air, let’s talk about what you should focus on during these interviews.
3 Key Steps to Ace Your Next Informational Interview
1. Establish Rapport and Connection
An informational interview is all about building relationships—not just for today but for the long term. Unlike formal interviews, the dynamic here is more peer-to-peer.
- Be curious. Show genuine interest in the person’s career path, their challenges, and their experiences.
- Avoid assumptions. Even if you’ve researched their LinkedIn profile, leave room for surprises. Everyone has unique stories and interests beyond their titles.
- Ask thoughtful questions. For example:
- “What’s something you wish you knew when you started in this role?”
- “What’s the most rewarding part of your job?”
Your goal is to create a natural, engaging conversation that feels meaningful—not transactional.
2. Share Your Story with Clarity
You’ll likely be asked why you’re reaching out. This is where your personal story comes in.
- Craft a clear, compelling pitch. Explain why you’re exploring this career path, what you’re currently doing, and why you’re considering a change.
- Be honest but strategic. Avoid oversharing negative reasons like “I can’t stand my boss.” Instead, reframe challenges as motivations for growth.
For example, instead of saying, “I’m leaving because I’m not challenged enough,” you might say:
“I’m looking for opportunities where I can contribute my skills in [specific area] while continuing to grow in [specific area].”
If you feel stuck crafting your story, this is something we tackle deeply in my coaching program. A strong narrative not only helps in informational interviews but boosts your confidence in formal interviews as well.
3. Ask Intelligent, Specific Questions
The quality of your questions reflects your preparation and curiosity. Avoid generic, job-hunting questions like, “Do you know any companies hiring?” Instead, demonstrate thoughtfulness and initiative.
- Frame your questions to invite insights:
- “I’ve been researching companies like X, Y, and Z—what’s your take on these organizations?”
- “Based on your experience, what trends do you see shaping this industry in the next 5 years?”
- Make it a two-way exchange. Share observations or ideas to spark a deeper discussion. For example:
“I’ve noticed a shift toward [specific trend]. How has that impacted your work?”
Even if the conversation confirms that this role or industry isn’t the right fit, you’ve added value to the person’s day. This builds trust and strengthens the relationship for future opportunities.
Your Homework
After today’s episode, I want you to reflect on your approach to informational interviews:
- Are you focusing on building rapport, sharing your story, and asking intelligent questions?
- If not, what’s holding you back?
These three steps are the foundation of a successful informational interview.
If you’re ready to take this further, I invite you to join my Spiritual Achiever Coaching program. Our Career Revelation Academy includes a detailed module on mastering informational interviews—helping you craft your story, build relationships, and stand out as a candidate.
Final Thoughts
Informational interviews aren’t just a checkbox on your career journey—they’re a chance to connect, learn, and position yourself for success. By focusing on these three steps, you’ll not only make a lasting impression but also build relationships that can shape your future.
Thank you for tuning in to episode #224 of the Own Your Best Life Podcast. If you enjoyed today’s topic, please share this episode with a friend or leave a review. I’d love to hear how these tips are helping you in your career journey.
Until next time, remember: Your best life is just one step away.
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That’s it for this week. Have an amazing one and I’ll talk to you next time.
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