Informational Interview as networking

The informational interview is for some a curious hybrid of conversation and intimidation. That pesky intimidation factor doesn't need to be present, however, and won't be if you prepare just a little.

Since informational interviews are essentially an opportunity to learn about a specific job, career, or company, you should do a little research before you talk to someone. Find out about the position and the organization, and have a list of open-ended questions ready. From there, the conversation will flow, because people really enjoy talking about what they do. If you're genuinely interested, it will show.

That's where the networking part comes in: enthusiasm is a very attractive quality, as is knowledge about a field. If you can connect with your informational interviewer, you now have a contact at a company, and someone to turn to with questions, although it may take a while to develop the relationship to that point. Keep in touch, send a thank you card, update them on your internship searches, etc.

Building a connection with someone in a field you're interested is a great start at networking, and easy if you do your homework.