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We in industry usually get quite a few informational interview requests regularly. Most of us love helping, as we depended on that help when we were breaking in. So don’t be shy! But also know these shouldn’t be taken lightly - it’s all part of the process. 1/
#PhDchat
#PhDchat
1) Finding people - find common connections. Ask your network who they know in industries in your field. On LinkedIn, search your alma mater + PhD + industry of choice. Search credentials + job you want. Search companies you want to work for + credentials + alma mater, etc. 2/
2) Reaching out: The introductory email. Be short and give 2-3 time suggestions. Do not ask your questions in this email. Be brief - explain why you are wanting to do an informational interview with them specifically. 3/
3) Prepare ahead of time. Many websites & videos on questions for informational interviews for scientists. I think I used the ones on @cheekyscience. Prepare ~10 questions, but don’t expect to ask them all. Prioritize and let the conversation flow naturally. 4/
4) Be succinct and have an agenda. Take the lead, don’t waste their time. “Hi thanks for agreeing to speak with me, I do appreciate it. If ok, I’d like to explain to you my background, then hear about yours. I have a few questions to touch on after that. How does that sound?” 5/
5) When talking with the person, act like you would if you were in the position you’re applying for. This might not make sense to you, and that’s ok! But - for example - if you are looking at jobs where you will be running meetings, act authoritative. Etc. 6/
6) Don’t ask all your questions to one person! You’re going to have LOTS of questions. Spread them out. 7/
7) Don’t ask them to look over your resume or cover letter. Hire someone to do this. Looking over your resume is not their job. If they used a company/person, ask them who. 8/
8) This is about the relationship as well as the information you gather. More on this below, but always keep this in mind. These people are doing you a favor, yes, but they also might become your friend one day. 9/
9) Ask for an internal referral if they work at the company you are applying. Don’t be shy about this! Companies often referral incentives. If you are hired, they may receive compensation. 10/
10) Let them talk! Respect their time. I have had people constantly talk over me when they ask a question to explain more about themselves. Why talk to me if you aren’t going to listen? What information do you really need? Maintain professionalism at all times. 11/
11) Ask about compensation. Don’t be shy! Explain what a “black box” industry salaries are to you. If they are hesitant to tell you their salary, ask about how they found out about industry compensation. No one wakes up one day with this information magically in their heads. 12/
12) Follow up. You now have a relationship with this person, so cultivate it! Tell them what job you ended up getting or interviewing for, etc. Update them on how their “help investment” panned out. 13/13 The end.
