You're aiming to grow your IT network. How can you leverage informational interviews to achieve that goal?

2 Research Thoroughly

To make the most of informational interviews, thorough research is essential. Start by identifying IT professionals whose careers or current roles align with your interests. Use platforms like LinkedIn to find potential interviewees and learn about their background, projects, and contributions to the field. This preparation not only helps you ask informed questions but also shows respect for your interviewee's time. Additionally, understanding their work allows you to draw parallels with your own experience and interests, fostering a more engaging and reciprocal dialogue.

3 Reach Out

The next step is to reach out to potential interviewees with a polite and concise message. Explain your interest in their career path or expertise and express your desire for an informational interview. Be flexible with their schedule and suggest a short meeting, as IT professionals often have demanding workloads. It's important to convey that you're seeking advice and insight rather than a job. A respectful approach increases the likelihood of a positive response and sets the stage for a constructive exchange.

4 Prepare Questions

Preparing thoughtful questions is key to a successful informational interview. Focus on open-ended questions that encourage detailed responses and reflection on experiences, such as the challenges faced when implementing a particular technology or the skills most valued in their IT specialty. Avoid questions that can be easily answered through a quick online search. Instead, aim for depth to gain unique perspectives that aren't readily available in public resources. This preparation demonstrates your genuine interest and can lead to a more enlightening discussion.

5 Build Rapport

Building rapport during the informational interview is vital for nurturing a lasting professional relationship. Engage actively by listening attentively and showing enthusiasm for the discussion. Share relevant aspects of your own background and aspirations in IT to establish common ground. A friendly demeanor and genuine interest in the conversation can leave a lasting positive impression, making it more likely that your interviewee will remember you and consider you for future opportunities or introductions.

6 Follow Up

After the informational interview, promptly send a thank-you note expressing gratitude for the time and knowledge shared. This not only is a courteous gesture but also reinforces the connection you've made. Keep in touch by occasionally updating them on your career progress or sharing articles and events relevant to their interests in IT. Maintaining these relationships requires effort, but it's a worthwhile investment as your network grows and evolves alongside your career.