In this guide
Career changes and transitions
How to run an informational interview
How to request a short conversation with someone in a field you are exploring, the questions that give useful answers, and how to follow up politely.
What an informational interview is for
It is research, not a disguised job application. You want to find out what the work involves day to day, how people got in, and which skills matter most. Done well, it also means one more person in the field knows your name and what you are trying to do.
Keep expectations modest. Many people will not reply, and that says nothing about you. A short, specific request sent to several people will usually produce a few conversations.
Who to ask
- People one or two steps ahead of where you want to be, who remember how they got in.
- Former colleagues, classmates or friends of friends who now work in the field.
- Members of a professional body or community group for that occupation.
- People who changed into the field from somewhere similar to where you are now.
How to ask
Hi [Name], I'm a [current role] exploring a move into [field], and your path from [their previous area] stood out. Would you have twenty minutes for a call in the next few weeks? I'd like to understand what the work involves day to day. I'm not asking about vacancies. If now is a bad time, no problem at all. [Your name]
Offer to fit around their diary, keep the message under a hundred words and do not attach a resume unless they ask for one.
Questions that get useful answers
- What does a normal week look like, and what takes up most of your time?
- What do people new to the role find hardest?
- Which skills or experience made the biggest difference when you were hired?
- If you were in my position, what would you do first?
- Is there anyone else you think I should speak to?
Avoid questions a quick search would answer. Prepare by reading about their organisation and their public career history so the conversation goes deeper.
After the conversation
Send a thank-you within a day that mentions one specific thing you learned. If they suggested someone else to speak to, ask whether they are happy to introduce you, or whether you may mention their name. If you later act on their advice, a brief update is welcome and keeps the connection alive.
Before you close the call
- I have thanked them and kept to the time I asked for.
- I have noted the two or three most useful points while they are fresh.
- I know whether they are happy to be contacted again.
- I have written down any names or resources they suggested.
Common questions
Is it acceptable to ask about vacancies at the end?
Only if they raise it or the conversation naturally leads there. If you ask, keep it light: whether they know of teams that hire people with your background.
How many informational interviews should I do?
Enough to see patterns. Three or four conversations about the same kind of role usually show which skills matter and which advice is one person's view.
Put it into practice
Guidance by career stageDrafted with AI assistance and checked against Luceria’s editorial standards. Examples are illustrative, not real people’s results. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.