The Power of Informational Interviews (and How to Actually Get One)

In a job market where competition is fierce and online applications often feel like they’re going into a black hole, informational interviews have become one of the most powerful tools for career growth in 2025.

They’re not just about gathering information—they’re about building real connections, expanding your network, and gaining inside insights you won’t find on company websites or job boards. For career changers, recent grads, and even seasoned professionals, informational interviews can open doors that no résumé ever could.

But what exactly are they—and how do you get one without feeling awkward?

What is an Informational Interview?

An informational interview is a casual, one-on-one conversation where you ask someone questions about their career path, industry, or organization. It’s not a job interview. You’re not asking for a job—you’re asking for perspective.

You might learn:

• What a day in their role actually looks like

• What skills are most valuable in their industry

• How they broke into the field (and what they’d do differently today)

• Whether a company’s culture aligns with what you’re looking for

These conversations can help you make smarter career moves, avoid bad fits, and sometimes—yes—lead to future opportunities.

Why They Matter More in 2025

In an era of digital hiring and AI screening, people still hire people—especially those they know or trust. Informational interviews allow you to:

• Bypass the algorithm by getting on someone’s radar before a job is even posted

• Make better decisions by learning what a role really requires

• Strengthen your network with professionals who are already doing what you want to do

And the best part? Most people are happy to talk about themselves and share advice—especially if you’re respectful of their time.

How to Ask for an Informational Interview (Without Feeling Awkward)

Here’s a simple 4-step formula that works:

1. Be clear and polite.
Let them know you’re not asking for a job—just 15–20 minutes of their insight.

Example message:

Hi [Name], I’m exploring a transition into [industry/role], and I’ve been really inspired by your journey. If you’re open to it, I’d love to ask a few quick questions about your career path and any advice you have. I know you’re busy, so even 15 minutes would mean a lot!

2. Keep it short and personal.
Mention something specific about their work—like a LinkedIn post, recent project, or role they hold—to show you’re genuinely interested.

3. Suggest a flexible format.
Phone call, Zoom, coffee—let them choose what works best for them.

4. Say thank you—twice.
Before and after the chat, always follow up with a sincere thank-you note. If they made a recommendation or shared a resource, let them know how it helped you.

What to Ask During the Conversation

Don’t just wing it. Come prepared with thoughtful, open-ended questions like:

• “What’s one thing you wish you had known before entering this field?”

• “What skills do you use most often in your role?”

• “What advice would you give someone looking to follow a similar path?”

• “Are there any trends in the industry that new professionals should be aware of?”

If the conversation goes well, you can close with:

“Is there anyone else you’d recommend I speak with to learn more?”

That one sentence could double or triple your network.

Final Thoughts

Informational interviews are less about getting hired now and more about getting ready, positioned, and known. In a world full of noise and automation, they offer something rare: human connection.

So stop waiting for the perfect job listing to drop. Start reaching out. A simple conversation could be the turning point in your career story.