An informational interview is a casual conversation with someone in a job, company or industry you’re curious about. It’s one of the best tools for career changers to explore a field — and it often leads to referrals.
Why informational interviews work
- You learn what a job is really like before committing
- You discover the skills and keywords that matter
- You build relationships with insiders
- You may hear about unposted opportunities
How to ask for one
Keep the request short and focused on learning, not asking for a job.
Subject: Quick question about your path into UX research
Hi Lena — I’m a customer service manager exploring UX research, and your move from support to UX really stood out. Would you be open to a 20-minute call in the next couple of weeks? I’d love to hear how you made the switch. Thank you!
20 questions to ask
- What does a typical day look like?
- How did you get into this field?
- What do you enjoy most about your work?
- What are the biggest challenges?
- What skills are most important?
- Which tools do you use every day?
- What certifications or training matter?
- What do you wish you’d known when starting?
- How is the field changing?
- What does career progression look like?
- What are typical entry points for someone like me?
- How would my background transfer?
- What would make my resume stand out?
- Which companies are great places to work in this field?
- What professional groups or events should I join?
- What’s the culture like at your company?
- How does your team measure success?
- What’s a common mistake newcomers make?
- Is there anyone else you’d recommend I talk to?
- May I stay in touch?
After the conversation
- Send a thank-you within 24 hours
- Apply their advice and update them later
- Stay in touch every few months
Informational interviews are a key part of networking for your job search and changing careers.
How to prepare
Research the person’s background on LinkedIn, read about their company, and prepare five to eight questions. Have a 30-second introduction ready explaining your background and what you’re exploring.
Follow-up template
Hi Lena — thank you again for your time today. Your advice about building a UX portfolio with real usability tests was especially helpful, and I’ve already reached out to a local nonprofit to start one. I’ll keep you posted on my progress!
Following up with how you applied their advice keeps the relationship warm and makes people more likely to help again.
Informational interview: key takeaways
Here is a quick recap of informational interview to save or share:
- An informational interview helps you learn a career before committing.
- Keep requests short and focused on learning.
- Ask about skills, entry points and advice.
- Follow up with how you used their advice.
For official labor-market data and more career research, see the CareerOneStop job search tools and BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook. Ready to put this into practice? Make sure your resume matches every job you apply for with the HiReXL ATS Resume Optimizer.
Frequently asked questions
How long should an informational interview be?
About 20 to 30 minutes. Respect the person's time and end on schedule.
Can I ask for a job in an informational interview?
Avoid asking directly. Focus on learning; if there's a fit, the person may offer to refer you.
How do I find people for informational interviews?
Use LinkedIn, alumni networks, professional associations and introductions from your existing network.
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