Definition
Informational interview — An informational interview is a conversation a candidate initiates with someone working in a role or industry they're curious about, purely to learn and build a connection. No job is being applied for and no offer is on the table; the person being interviewed is doing a favor, not evaluating a candidate.
The format is common advice for students and career changers who want a realistic picture of a job before pursuing it, since postings rarely explain what day-to-day work feels like. A typical session runs 20 to 30 minutes and covers what a person's job involves and how they got into the field.
It can also open doors: a good conversation sometimes leads to a referral later, even though that isn't the stated purpose.
Frequently asked questions
Should you ask for a job during an informational interview?
No. Directly asking for a job turns the conversation into something the other person didn't agree to. The goal is to learn, and any opportunities from the relationship should develop naturally afterward.
How do you request an informational interview?
A short, specific message works best: explain who you are, why you're interested in their role, and ask for 15 to 20 minutes. Being clear about the ask makes it easy for a busy person to say yes.
Is an informational interview worth the time?
For someone exploring a new field or company, it can be one of the fastest ways to get a candid, unfiltered view of the work, faster than research alone and less pressured than a real job interview.
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