Conducting Information Interviews
What Is An Information Interview?
An informational interview is a short, informal conversation with someone working in a field, role, or organization you’re curious about. It’s a chance to learn directly from professionals about their career path, job responsibilities, and industry insights. It’s not a job interview, but it can lead to valuable connections and future opportunities.
Why Conduct An Information Interview?
- Explore career paths and industries.
- Learn about day-to-day responsibilities and required skills.
- Get advice on education, training, and entry-level opportunities.
- Build your professional network.
Who Do I Ask For An Information Interview?
- McMaster alumni working in your field of interest.
- Professionals you meet at events, conferences, or workshops.
- People you find on LinkedIn, employer websites, or through referrals.
- Faculty members or researchers in your area of study.
Where Can I Find People To Meet With?
- LinkedIn: Use filters to search by industry, job title, or school.
- Professional associations and networking events: Check Sciences Careers & Experience Centre Event’s page for upcoming networking events.
- Referrals: Ask professors, peers, or mentors if they know someone in your field of interest.
- McMaster Alumni Directory: Access the directory here.
- McMaster Experts: Use McMaster Experts webpage to identify researchers at McMaster University.
- MacConnect: Join MacConnect, McMaster’s alumni networking platform, hosted by Alumni Career Services
Need help building or editing your LinkedIn profile? Visit How to Create a LinkedIn Profile and book an appointment with the Science Careers & Experience Centre (BSB 127) on OSCARplus for personalized support.
How To Ask For An Information Interview
Keep your request polite, brief, and specific. Mention:
- Who you are and what you’re studying.
- Why you’re reaching out to them.
- What you hope to learn.
- A suggested time frame (e.g., 20 minutes).
Example information interview email request:
Hello, my name is [Your Name], and I’m a Science student majoring in [Your Major] at McMaster University. I’m currently exploring career options and am very interested in learning more about [Occupation/Field]. I came across your profile on [LinkedIn/Referral Source] and was inspired by your work in [Area]. Would you be open to a brief 20-minute conversation where I could ask you a few questions about your career path and experiences?
Be Prepared With Questions To Ask
Coming prepared with questions shows that you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in learning from the person you’re meeting with. It helps you lead the conversation confidently, make the most of your time, and gather meaningful insights that can inform your career decisions.
Examples of questions to ask in an information interview
- Can you share what you do in a typical workday/week?
- Are there any times of the year when your industry is busy/slow and why?
- What parts of your job do you find most challenging? What do find most enjoyable or rewarding?
- How would you describe the work culture and values of your organization?
- What skills, qualifications and experience would you recommend for securing entry level work in this field?
- Do you have any recommendations for gaining entry level experience in this field?
- Are there any professional associations, journals, grants or notable organizations I should be aware of?
- What professional development opportunities have you completed since starting your career?
- What educational preparation would you recommend for someone who wants to work as a _?
- What do you know now that you wished you had known when you started your career?
- Is there anyone else that you recommend I speak with? May I use your name when I call?
Further reading: Networking: How to Prepare for Company Information Sessions | Student Success Centre | McMaster University
Quick Chapter Recap
- Informational interviews are for learning and relationship-building—not job hunting.
- Prepare your questions and lead the conversation.
- Have a short self-introduction ready. Visit, How To Pitch Your Skills And Experience for more support on this!
Need more support with building your network?
Meet with a Science Career Advisor
Book a 30-minute appointment with the Science Careers & Experience Centre (BSB 127) in advance through OSCARplus.
Build your Science Career Toolkit with SCIENCE 2C00
Enrol in SCIENCE 2C00: Skills for Career Success in Science — for guidance on developing essential career skills and become eligible for co-op and experiential education opportunities.
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