Career Search Informational Interviews

Need to find out more about a career area and develop some useful contacts at the same time you might be thinking of a career change?

Then consider undertaking a series of Career Search Informational interviews.

Career Search Informational interviews are appointments where you discuss a particular topic. No reference would be made to the fact that you are looking for a job. Informational Interviews are great ways of developing your own career descriptions and knowledge, building your networks and getting your self into potential one on one selling situations.

For example you may decide that you are interested in foreign investment and have targeted Merchant Banks. The steps to follow are:

1 research names of merchant banks
2. identify the position in the bank of the person who would have the information you need;
3. identify the name of the person in that position;
4. practice what you are going to say to that person when you ring.

“Mr/Mrs/Ms …, my name is…and I understand that your field of specialty is…I am doing research in that area and I was wondering if we could meet for 20 minutes at a time convenient to yourself to discuss this area”.

- You may be asked specific questions – so be prepared to answer those questions.
- You will be expected to be knowledgeable in your area – an information source to those you are meeting. Be prepared to share information, but do not gossip or break confidence.
- Be fully prepared when you attend your meeting.
- Have your questions written out.

Now think about three companies you could approach in your area of interest. Take the time to find the best placed person in that company you should approach and it might not be the Human Resources Manager. Get your introduction and questions together and off you go. Don’t forget to send a follow up thank you letter with your resume if appropriate. Best of luck with your career research.

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