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Do either of these scenarios seem familiar?
Jump-start or revive your career with an informational interview!
What Is An Informational Interview?
Informational interviews (also known as coffee chats) are informal conversations that can help you find out about:
A new industry that you're interested in
Potential (future) opportunities at a company
A person who you admire in your field and their career experiences
Why Do They Matter?
Informational interviews can lead to many positive outcomes, such as:
Allowing you to learn from the other person's career successes and missteps
Preparing you to apply for future jobs in this field
Connecting you with a wider network
Quiz
In which scenario might an informational interview be helpful?
What Are They NOT?
There is one cardinal rule when it comes to informational interviews:
DO NOT ASK FOR A JOB!
"But what if that's what I am looking for?"
You might find out about opportunities during the conversation if the other person brings them up, but people can tell when you are being insincere.
Quiz
Tanisha is at an informational interview with a senior editor at a fashion magazine. Which question would be appropriate for her to ask?
Take Action
Finding a job you are passionate about can be challenging, but informational interviews are a powerful tool that can move your career in a direction you are excited about!
Who might you ask for an informational interview?
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