The concept of ‘informational interviews’ is something that, although widely known, is rarely put into practice by most people. So, what exactly is an informational interview, how does it function, and how can you apply nuanced techniques to ensure that both you and the person you’re interviewing gain substantial benefits, especially when you feel like you don’t have much to contribute?
To begin with, an informational interview is essentially a chance to meet and learn from someone whose insights and experiences you value. For instance, you might be intrigued about what the day-to-day responsibilities of a Product Manager entail. Or, perhaps you’re interested in discovering what the workplace culture at IDEO is truly like. Informational interviews are a golden opportunity to satisfy these curiosities.
Moreover, engaging in informational interviews should not be considered odd or unusual. What’s genuinely peculiar is watching numerous individuals in their 20s and 30s constantly submit resumes without a second thought, then expressing bafflement when job offers don’t come rolling in. It’s bewildering how people overlook informational interviews — a crucial strategy in securing your dream job — simply because they seem ‘out of the norm’. Personally, I wouldn’t hesitate for a second to invest time in informational interviews if it meant propelling my career forward, possibly even to the extent of affording luxurious fantasies like commuting in a flying car, thanks to the dream job I landed through impactful informational meetings. And yes, I might hold a tiny grudge against those who dismiss the profound value of informational interviews.
It’s essential to recognize that people generally enjoy meeting with others who exhibit intelligence and curiosity. This means you stand a chance if your initial email grabs their interest, if you ask thought-provoking questions, and if you can be genuinely engaging throughout the conversation. Unfortunately, not everyone gets this right. There are those who…
- Pose trivial questions (Imagine someone writing, ‘What should I do with my money??’ Hopefully, they’d realize that perhaps delving into years of amassed knowledge on my site might offer them a clue.)
- Tend to ramble (Picture someone introducing themselves with irrelevant life stories that drag on and fail to lead to a pointed question or insightful conversation. That’s a surefire way to lose the listener’s interest.)
- Focus solely on themselves (‘Let me tell you about me, myself, and I…’ is not the way to approach an individual who potentially holds the keys to vast knowledge and insights you seek. Remember, humility and the willingness to learn should be your guiding principles.)
And while I’m dropping nuggets of wisdom here, have you checked out my New York Times Bestselling book? If not, do yourself a favor and digest this 10-minute summary. It’s right here, waiting to enrich your intellect and perhaps, your approach to informational interviews (and more).
Conclusion
In wrapping up this enlightening exploration of informational interviews, it’s palpable that the benefits of such encounters are manifold. Yet, only a handful of proactive souls dare to tread this less conventional path. Informational interviews are not just a means to an end; they are a strategic tool designed for the insightful, the curious, and the brave. They embody the essence of mutual learning and knowledge sharing, which, in turn, can unlock doors to unforeseen opportunities and connections.
So take the leap, embrace the awkwardness (if any), and recognize that in the world of career advancement and personal growth, being unconventional is not weird; it’s wise. After all, wouldn’t you rather be the protagonist in your own success story, zooming around in that metaphorical flying car, than the bystander who shunned the road less traveled? The choice is yours, and the time is now. Get out there, reach out to someone you admire, and let the conversation unfold. Who knows? You might just land your dream job, discover a mentor, or at the very least, enjoy a great chat over coffee.
For more intriguing and trending news articles, visit DeFi Daily News. Who knows what inspiration or opportunities you might find there?
