Informational Interviews are Necessary!

By Emma Stevens

As you begin your career as a PR professional, you will most likely participate in many informational interviews. Daily phone calls and coffee dates may seem tedious but they are a crucial element for the networking you will need to do both as part as your job, as well as when scouting for future career opportunities.

Here is a list of the best ways to conduct and prepare for an informational interview

1. Research: Research is a critical component of adequate preparation. For example, I had an informational interview this Tuesday.  The night before I looked at the company’s website, socials, team and clients. I researched the person I was meeting with and dived into her background and career history. Research is what helps you construct good questions, find points of similarity and a way to highlight your work. For example, the main theme of this company’s website is collaboration and teamwork. I was able to connect the goal of the company to work I am doing as a team member of Allen Hall PR. Additionally, they work closely with the community at large, which I was able to connect with because I am a local in their target community. I developed talking points, questions, practiced my tone of voice and figured out which of my skills to highlight all from research conducted in less than an hour. Take the time, put in the work and get the most out of the interview. 
2. Come prepared: I understand it is easy to take informational interviews less seriously than a “real” job interview, but I would urge you not to do this. Every informational interview is critical for career-building and networking opportunities. Additionally, the person you are speaking to is taking time out of their day and work schedule, so don’t waste their time. On Tuesday I was able to learn about how to construct a PR agency from the ground up. This is amazing information and something I most likely would not learn day-to-day or in my classes. 
3. Be yourself: It is easy to feel intimidated by professionals, especially if they are in a position of authority. I urge you to remember that they are just people like you or me. Furthermore, they agreed to take time to talk to you, which means they saw something in you they believed in. You are learning from them, but that does not mean you shouldn’t highlight your skills or relate yourself to them professionally. 
4. Don’t ramble or interrupt: Informational interviews tend to be short and to the point. Make sure you ask direct questions and allow the person to answer fully before moving on. Also, let the conversation unfold naturally. If your interviewer wants to focus on one question the whole time and you are learning a lot from it do not feel pressured to move on to the next question. This is your time to showcase your professionalism, work ethic and professional tone in the conversation. 
5. Network: This is your time to build relationships. Make sure you remind your interviewer of your name and constantly showcase yourself and brand. If it is appropriate, you can consider asking if they have additional contacts you could reach out to. 
6. Thank you: This is the most important part. Always follow up with a thank-you email (or handwritten card) immediately. Additionally, thank them when you arrive and again when you leave. A follow up email can also allow you to reach out and ask for further contacts or internship opportunities.