Informational Meeting
Last updated
Last updated
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Purpose and Conduct of Informational Meetings: Understand the role of informational meetings in job searching and how to conduct them effectively.
Preparation for the Meeting: Learn how to prepare thoroughly for an informational meeting.
Follow-Up Strategies: Master the art of follow-up after the meeting.
Informational meetings are a powerful tool in your job search and career development. They offer an opportunity to gain insider knowledge about a company or industry while expanding your professional network. Unlike a formal job interview, these meetings are not about securing a position but about learning, establishing connections, and subtly demonstrating your value as a potential candidate.
By approaching informational meetings with preparation and professionalism, you can uncover valuable insights, discover potential opportunities, and leave a positive impression that may benefit you in the future.
At their core, informational meetings serve two primary purposes:
A Chance to Learn: These meetings provide a unique window into the inner workings of a company or industry. They allow you to ask specific questions about culture, values, and opportunities, helping you better understand if the organization aligns with your career goals.
A Platform for Self-Presentation: While the purpose is not to directly ask for a job, informational meetings allow you to present yourself as an engaged, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic professional. By asking insightful questions and showcasing your genuine interest, you subtly position yourself as a valuable connection.
Preparation is key to making the most of an informational meeting. By doing your homework beforehand, you demonstrate respect for the other person’s time and maximize the value of the conversation.
Start by researching the company thoroughly. Review its website, recent news articles, and LinkedIn profile to understand its mission, values, and recent achievements. This background knowledge allows you to ask thoughtful and specific questions, rather than generic ones that could be answered with a quick Google search.
In addition to researching the company, take time to learn about the person you’ll be meeting. Look at their LinkedIn profile to understand their role, career path, and any shared connections. This can help you tailor your questions and build rapport during the conversation.
Prepare a list of questions that demonstrate your curiosity and engagement. For example:
"What initially drew you to this company, and what keeps you here?"
"What are the biggest challenges and rewards of your role?"
"What skills or experiences do you think are most valuable in this industry?"
"How would you describe the culture here, and what kind of people tend to thrive?"
"Are there others you would recommend I speak with to gain additional insights?"
Having a mix of broad and specific questions ensures you’re ready for a productive discussion, no matter how the conversation unfolds.
Informational meetings are typically short, lasting 15-30 minutes, so it’s important to make every moment count. Start by thanking the person for their time and briefly introducing yourself, highlighting your interest in the company or industry and what you hope to learn from the conversation.
Let the conversation flow naturally, guided by your prepared questions. While it’s important to stay on track, be flexible enough to explore unexpected topics that may arise. Taking notes shows your engagement and ensures you capture valuable insights for later reflection.
Be mindful of the other person’s time. Keep an eye on the clock, and if the conversation is nearing its scheduled end, thank them again and ask if they have time for one final question. Conclude by expressing gratitude for their insights and letting them know how helpful the meeting has been.
It’s also important to be professional in your demeanor. Maintain good eye contact, actively listen, and avoid interrupting. While it’s natural to feel nervous, approach the meeting with confidence and a genuine desire to learn.
Your work doesn’t end when the meeting concludes. Following up is a critical step that ensures you leave a lasting positive impression.
Within 24 hours, send a personalized thank-you email. Reference specific points from the conversation to show that you were actively engaged and appreciated their insights. For example: "Thank you for taking the time to meet with me today and share your experiences at [Company Name]. I found your advice on [specific topic] particularly insightful, and I’m excited to explore how I can apply these ideas to my career development. I truly appreciate your recommendation to connect with [suggested contact] and will be reaching out to them shortly."
In your follow-up, express your desire to stay in touch and ask if it’s okay to reach out with further questions in the future. If they suggested connecting with others, make a plan to follow up with those individuals as well. Expanding your network is one of the key benefits of informational meetings, so take full advantage of these opportunities.
While informational meetings are highly beneficial, there are pitfalls to watch out for:
Asking for a Job: The purpose of these meetings is to learn and network, not to solicit a job. Bringing this up prematurely can make the interaction feel transactional and may put the other person in an uncomfortable position.
Lack of Preparation: Failing to research the company or prepare thoughtful questions reflects poorly on you and can result in a less productive meeting.
Poor Follow-Up: Not sending a thank-you note or failing to act on recommendations for further connections can undermine the relationship you’re building.
Approach each meeting with professionalism, preparation, and genuine curiosity, and you’ll maximize its potential benefits.
Did You Know?Informational meetings are one of the most effective ways to network and uncover hidden job opportunities. Many successful hires begin with these informal conversations, making them an essential tool in any job seeker’s strategy.
"Informational meetings are a strategic tool in your job search arsenal. They offer a unique opportunity to learn, network, and leave a positive impression that could open doors to future career opportunities."
