Why Informational Interviews Are Good for a Job Transition
By Barbara Seifert, Ph. D., CPC
Now that school has stared back, and summer is almost over, it is seeming that more people are finding the need to make a job change; in fact, I have spoken with several people in the last two days who are in that mind-frame. Making a change can feel scary, particularly if you aren’t sure what you want to do.
If you are trying to make the decision between two or more career paths, one of the best ways to be more informed is to ask for an informational interview; this is where you find one or more individuals who are already in the job or career you want and then asking them for some of their time, like 10-15 minutes, where you get to ask them some pertinent questions. The focus is on learning as much s you can about that career path so you can make a better-informed decision if it the right one for you.
One way to find them is to ask family and friends first if they, or someone they know, would be interested. You then could go to professional associations to see if their members might be interested, as well as your school/university. You want to ensure that they are aware that you are only asking for 10-15 minutes of their time so they will be more open to speaking with you. Have a list of questions to ask, such as: “How did you get in to the field?” “What is the best or worst part of the job?” “What would you recommend for someone entering the field or position?”
Armed with this information, along with any research you have uncovered, will help you to make a decision on making a transition for that job; you then can begin planning the steps to making the leap. That is why informational interviews are good for a job transition!
Thanks brother,this is really a life-changing care for us. But kindly permit me to ask this,what do we do in a situation where the personalities we are able reach are non-motivating types – those who do not want the young ones to reach their level ? I believe you know more than what I really mean,so that we don’t get misinformed by them.
Thanks.