From Informational Interview to Job Offer: Career Breakthroughs Waiting to Happen

I recently interviewed EY executive Jennifer Fitzgerald, and her words hit home:

“One of the biggest, most important things, if I could stress anything, is to focus on building relationships. The second you join a company, even beforehand, if that's possible, reach out, be proactive, set up time to take 10 or 15 minutes to introduce yourself to someone. You’d be surprised at the different opportunities that will come to you just from that one conversation.”

I couldn’t agree more.

Informational interviews are one of the most overlooked (and powerful) tools for landing a job, pivoting careers, or growing within your industry. They're not just about getting advice; they’re about building trust and visibility before the door even opens.

And here’s the thing: I know interviews.

Before launching The Independence Lab, I worked as a journalist and spent five years working in content marketing, a field built on the power of great storytelling. 

Content marketing, in simple terms, is the art of using words, interviews, and stories to help a brand connect with real people. I interviewed dozens (maybe hundreds!) of subject matter experts across industries to shape compelling narratives that made readers care.

What I didn’t realize at the time? That experience gave me a unique superpower: I learned exactly how to ask good questions, listen actively, and turn conversations into opportunities.

Those same skills apply directly to informational interviews.

When to Ask for Informational Interviews

Spoiler alert: you don’t have to be job hunting to ask for one.

Informational interviews are valuable in nearly every stage of your career journey, especially the beginning. They’re like your personal shortcut to understanding an industry, a role, or even just getting your foot in the door.

Reach out when:

• You’re exploring career options before graduation
• You want to understand the real day-to-day of a job you’re considering
• You’re applying for a position and want insider perspective
• You’ve just started a new role and want to connect cross-functionally
• You admire someone’s path and want to learn how they did it

Think of informational interviews as research meets relationship-building. The sooner you start, the stronger your network becomes.

How to Ask for Informational Interviews

One of the biggest fears I hear is: “I don’t want to bother them.”

Here’s the truth: people like being asked for advice. Especially if you show them why their story matters to you.

Use this simple script to start:

Hi [Name],

I’ve been following your work at [Company] and would love to hear more about your path and what your day-to-day looks like.

If you’re open to a 15-minute chat, I’d be so grateful to learn from your experience. I’ll make it quick and completely flexible to your schedule.

Thanks in advance either way. Your story has already been a huge inspiration!

Be specific, keep it short, and always follow up with a thank-you.

Interview Tips I Learned From journalism

Through my journalism training, I learned how to pull powerful, thoughtful stories from people, whether it was a CEO, a nonprofit founder, or a first-time manager. Here’s what that taught me about nailing informational interviews:

Lead with curiosity

As a journalist, my job was to find the real story behind the surface.

The best questions that help you dig in and learn more about a person's career path are: 

• What surprised you most when you started?
• What’s one thing you wish you had known earlier?
• What skill do you use daily that no one talks about?

These questions light people up and build connections fast.

Do your homework

Before every interview, I researched the person, the company, their past work, even social posts. 

Don't ask questions you can find the answer to online.

Proper preparation makes you stand out in an informational interview. It shows effort, and, more importantly, it sparks better conversation.

Make it easy for them to remember you

Remember, the best stories stick. So after your call, follow up with a quick note that reflects something personal they shared. 

Better yet, check in a few weeks later and let them know how their advice helped. That turns a one-time chat into a real relationship.

What Happens When You Put This Into Practice

Let me be clear: you don’t need a stacked resume to start having powerful conversations.

If you’re curious, respectful, and willing to learn, people will want to help you. I’ve seen it firsthand.

You never know where one email might lead:

• A job opportunity that hasn’t been posted yet
• A mentor who introduces you to your next role
• A genuine connection that boosts your confidence and career

It starts with one conversation.

Your Career Is a Series of Conversations

Too many women wait until they feel “qualified enough” to network.

But networking isn’t about perfection; it’s about presence. It’s about showing up, listening well, and letting people know you’re someone worth rooting for.

So send the email. Ask the question. Book the call.

You’ll be amazed at what opens up when you do.

Want more scripts, strategies, and confidence boosts?

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