Unlock Your Next Career Move
The informational interview is arguably the most powerful tool for career advancement, yet many professionals hesitate to use it. By mastering the art of the request, you can gain direct access to industry leaders and tap into the hidden job market.
Why Request an Informational Interview?
70% to 85% of jobs are filled through networking rather than public job boards (Source: LinkedIn/NPR)
This staggering statistic underscores the importance of direct outreach and building professional relationships before a job is even posted.
Steps to Craft the Perfect Request
- •Research the person extensively to ensure your request is tailored to their specific background.
- •Keep your subject line clear and professional to ensure it gets opened in a busy inbox.
- •State exactly why you chose them specifically and mention a shared interest or connection.
- •Request a brief window of time, such as 15 to 20 minutes, to show you respect their schedule.
- •Offer flexibility in the format, whether it's a brief phone call, virtual meeting, or coffee chat.
- •Provide a clear, low-pressure call to action that makes it easy for them to say yes.
Pro Tip for Outreach Success
When reaching out, focus on what you admire about their career path rather than asking for a job. Use the AI-powered tools at LeadRises to refine your elevator pitch so you feel confident when they do agree to the meeting.
Should I mention my resume in the initial email?
It is generally better to wait until you have established a rapport during the conversation. If they ask for it or express interest in your background, then you can offer it; otherwise, keep the focus on their expertise.
What if they don't respond to my initial message?
A single follow-up after one week is standard and polite. If you do not hear back after two attempts, gracefully move on, as professionals are often overwhelmed with requests and may not have the capacity at this time.