MODULE 3
INFORMATION INTERVIEW

The Information Interview is a useful way of getting information about a job or an occupation. It is usually initiated by a job seeker in order to find out more about the occupation he/she is interested in. The interview is only for the purpose of getting information and it is not related to actual job seeking. The target resource people for information interviews can be workers, professionals and mangers who are directly working in the area that is of interest to the job seeker.

Benefits of the Information Interviews - The information interview helps in: Making decisions about an occupation Knowing the details about a job/occupation Learning about the qualifications and experiences one needs to perform that job Learning about career paths that lead to an occupation Learning how workers feel about their jobs Knowing the culture and the environment of the workplace Becoming familiar with the transferable skills in an occupation that can be applied to other occupations Learning about the changes that have taken place in that job Boosting confidence as one becomes more knowledgeable Providing an opportunity to network

How to get an Information Interview - Research Find the description about the job/occupation from the National Occupational Classification (look at session 1.1) Find out which company or organization employs people of this occupation To find out about companies, look in yellow pages, Internet, libraries, blue books (business directories) Call the company and ask to talk to a person working in the field that you are interested in, or manager of that department Introduce yourself, your purpose of the call, a little bit about your background Request them to give you a half an hour of their time to talk to you about their profession either on the phone or in their office, wherever it is convenient for them Also ask for other referrals to contact and follow up on those

Questions to Ask at an Information Interview What are some of the things you do in this job on a daily basis? How did you start in this occupation? Can you tell me the career path you followed to get into this occupation? What education and training does a person need for this occupation? What do you like the most in this job? What do you like the least in this job? What is the salary range in this occupation? What kinds of organizations employ people in this occupation? What are the career advancement opportunities in this occupation? What courses, training or skills would you recommend for me if I want to pursue this occupation? Where can I take these courses or training? How much will it cost? How much time would it take? What other occupations are related to this occupation? What are some of the transferable skills in this occupation? Is there any particular thing I should know about this job? Would you recommend another person I could contact for more information? Can I send you my resume for critique? Can I volunteer in your organization?

Top of Page   BACK TO: Module 3