TECHNOLOGY CAREERS

Five Mistakes to Avoid During Informational Interviews

Informational interviews can be a tremendous resource if you’re looking for a new job or trying to learn more about a company, industry or information technology (IT) specialty. By talking to people about their line of work, you can gain valuable firsthand insight. However, it is critical to approach informational interviews the right way. Following are five mistakes to avoid:

• Arriving with unclear goals
  Make sure you know what you want to gain from the discussion. Are you considering a switch to a management track and interested in what steps a person working in that role took in his or her career? Do you want to transition to a new industry and garner inside tips for working in the field? If you start the meeting with no real objective, your contact will be inclined to cut the discussion short, so be sure to have targeted questions ready. For instance, if you are seeking advice on becoming a consultant, you might ask how the person got his or her start consulting or about the biggest challenges he or she has faced as a project professional.
• Failing to do your homework
  Make sure you are knowledgeable about your contact before you meet. You should have at least a general understanding of the person’s professional history and background on his or her employer. This will allow you to ask relevant questions and solicit appropriate assistance.
  
• Forgetting to listen
  Have a sincere interest in what your contact has to say. The person is likely to offer more advice - and more in-depth advice - if he or she knows you are invested in the conversation. Even if his or her suggestions aren’t what you wanted or expected to hear, respect the guidance given to you. Taking notes can help demonstrate your interest and help refresh your memory of the conversation later.
  
• Asking for a job
  While your ultimate objective may be to find a new job, you should never ask for one at an informational interview. The goal of the meeting is to build your knowledge about a particular topic. The person may feel deceived if you don’t follow through with the intent of the discussion. Keep in mind that even if you don’t ask for work directly, you may be considered for an available opening or receive a referral to a manager who is hiring if you make the right impression.
  
• Showing no gratitude
  If you have ever helped a colleague or sent someone a thoughtful gift only to receive no word of thanks, you know how discouraging it can be. The last thing you want to do is make a contact feel unappreciated, so be sure to send a handwritten thank-you note - not e-mail - within a day or two of the meeting.

Informational interviews are a useful career strategy. Just be sure to prepare carefully, listen and follow through to create a lasting, positive impression with those you meet.

Robert Half Technology is a leading provider of IT professionals for initiatives ranging from web development and multiplatform systems integration to network security and technical support. The company has more than 100 locations worldwide. Search for jobs now or learn more at www.rht.com.