Boise State University Career Guide - 2025 - Flipbook - Page 12
INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEWING
What is an Informational Interview?
How to Conduct an Informational Interview
An informational interview is a structured conversation
with a professional working in a feld that interests
you. Unlike a job interview, it’s an opportunity to:
•
Gain Industry Insights: Learn about the
day-to-day realities, challenges, and opportunities
within specifc roles and industries.
•
Ask In-Depth Questions: Uncover valuable
information about company culture, career
progression paths, and required skill sets.
•
Expand Your Network: Connect with professionals
who can ofer valuable guidance and mentorship
as you navigate your career journey.
•
Refine Your Career Goals: Gain frsthand
knowledge that can help you tailor your interests
to specifc career paths within your chosen feld.
1.
Benefits
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Career Exploration: Discover potential career
paths you may not have considered previously.
Informed Decision-Making: Solidify your career
goals by gaining frsthand knowledge about the
realities of diferent professions.
Networking: Build valuable connections with
professionals who can provide career advice and
potential future opportunities.
Company Culture Insights: Gain a better
understanding of company culture and assess its
alignment with your values and work style.
Identify an Interviewee: Use BroncoLink to
connect with alumni who are eager to help current
students. You can also search on LinkedIn for
Boise State alumni and other professionals, as
well as use company websites and professional
associations for your career feld. Don’t forget
about asking your current network of faculty,
family, or friends for potential contacts!
2. Write a Concise Email Request: See the next
page for an example of an email requesting an
informational interview.
3. Come up With Questions: See page 14 to learn
what to ask in your informational interview.
4. Make a Good Impression: Be punctual, courteous,
and express gratitude for your interviewer’s time.
5. Send a Thank-You Note: Send a follow-up email
reiterating your appreciation and outlining key
takeaways from the conversation.
