How can you use informational interviews to build a professional network?

1 Find potential interviewees

The first step is to identify people who you would like to talk to. You can use various sources to find potential interviewees, such as LinkedIn, alumni networks, industry associations, online forums, podcasts, blogs, or referrals from your existing contacts. Look for people who have relevant experience, knowledge, or connections in your field, and who are open to sharing their insights with you. Make a list of at least 10-15 names, and prioritize them based on your interest and availability.

2 Reach out and request an interview

The next step is to contact the people on your list and ask them for an informational interview. You can use email, phone, or social media to reach out, but make sure to be polite, professional, and concise. Explain who you are, why you are interested in their work, and what you hope to learn from them. Request a 15-30 minute conversation, and suggest a few possible times and formats (such as phone, video call, or in-person meeting). Be respectful of their time and preferences, and thank them for their consideration.

3 Prepare for the interview

The third step is to prepare for the interview by doing some research on the person and their field. Review their profile, website, portfolio, or publications, and learn about their background, achievements, and current projects. Think of some specific questions that you want to ask them, such as how they got started in their career, what skills and qualifications they need, what challenges and opportunities they face, what advice they have for someone like you, and how they network and stay updated in their field. Write down your questions, and practice them out loud.

4 Conduct the interview

The fourth step is to conduct the interview with professionalism and enthusiasm. Confirm the time and format of the interview, and be punctual and prepared. Introduce yourself briefly, and thank the person for their time and willingness to share their insights. Ask your questions, and listen actively and attentively to their answers. Show your interest and curiosity, and ask follow-up questions if appropriate. Avoid asking for a job or a referral, unless they offer it first. Respect the agreed duration of the interview, and wrap it up gracefully.

5 Follow up and stay in touch

The fifth step is to follow up and stay in touch with the person after the interview. Send them a thank-you note within 24 hours, and express your appreciation and gratitude for their time and advice. Highlight the key takeaways and action steps that you learned from them, and let them know how you plan to apply them to your own career. Ask them if they are comfortable with you keeping in touch with them, and if they have any suggestions for other people that you should talk to. Add them to your network on LinkedIn, or other platforms that they use.

6 Repeat and expand your network

The sixth step is to repeat and expand your network by conducting more informational interviews with different people. You can use the referrals, recommendations, or introductions that you get from your previous interviewees, or you can find new contacts using the same sources that you used before. The more informational interviews you do, the more you will learn, grow, and connect with people who can support your career development. Remember to be genuine, respectful, and helpful, and to offer value and assistance to your network whenever possible.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?