Why Informational Interviews Can Open More Doors Than Applications

In higher education, the traditional application process of CVs, cover letters, and formal interviews can feel like sending your work into a void. Positions are competitive, committees are busy, and decisions often hinge on factors beyond your control. That’s where informational interviews come in: informal conversations that can unlock opportunities far beyond what a standard application can achieve.

Build Relationships Before a Job Exists

Informational interviews aren’t about asking for a job. They’re about understanding departments, programs, and culture while making a lasting impression. By connecting with faculty, administrators, or staff, you position yourself as a known, trusted professional when positions do arise. Done well, these conversations can provide insider knowledge, expand your network, and even lead directly to opportunities.

• Gain Insider Knowledge: Application materials rarely tell the full story. Informational interviews provide insights into hiring priorities, departmental culture, and nuances of the role that can give you a competitive edge.
• Expand Your Network Strategically: Each conversation can lead to more connections. A single informational interview can result in introductions to colleagues, collaborators, or mentors, sometimes directly leading to opportunities that aren’t publicly advertised.
• Demonstrate Initiative and Professionalism: Reaching out for an informational interview shows that you’re proactive, thoughtful, and invested in the field. Many hiring committees value candidates who already have a sense of departmental culture and needs.
• Learn and Reflect to Strengthen Applications: Even if a job doesn’t materialize immediately, the insights gained make your future applications stronger. You’ll know what experiences, skills, or accomplishments to highlight, making your next application sharper and more aligned with the institution’s goals.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to make the most of every interview you line up.

1. Identify the Right People

Start with faculty, administrators, or staff in departments or institutions that interest you. Don’t limit yourself to open positions; think about individuals whose work aligns with your research, teaching, or professional goals.

Action step: Make a short list of five to ten people to reach out to. Look for those active in conferences, publications, or online discussions relevant to your field.

2. Craft a Thoughtful Outreach Email

Keep your email concise, respectful, and focused on learning rather than asking for a job.

Example:

Subject: Seeking Your Advice on [Field/Department]

Dear [Name],
I admire your work on [specific project/publication] and am exploring opportunities in [area]. I would greatly value 20–30 minutes of your time to hear about your career path and any advice you might have for someone entering this field.

Thank you for considering,
 [Your Name]

3. Prepare Focused Questions

Go in with questions that encourage insight and conversation. Examples:

• How did you get started in this department/field?
• What skills or experiences do you see as most valuable for someone entering this role?
• What are the department’s priorities or challenges right now?
• Who else would you recommend I speak with?

Tip: Avoid asking for a job directly. The goal is to learn and build a connection.

4. Take Notes and Reflect

Document key takeaways after each conversation. Note:

• Insights about departmental culture or priorities
• Skills, experiences, or gaps to address
• Potential contacts or resources

Use this information to tailor your applications or refine your professional development plan.

5. Follow Up Thoughtfully

Send a thank-you email within 24 to 48 hours. Include a specific takeaway from the conversation to show you were attentive and engaged.

Example:

Dear [Name],
Thank you again for taking the time to speak with me. I especially appreciated your insight about [specific takeaway]. I will apply this advice as I explore opportunities in [field].

Best regards,
 [Your Name]

6. Keep the Relationship Alive

Stay in touch occasionally by sharing relevant articles, sending the occasional update on your progress, or congratulating them on new achievements, preferably on LinkedIn. Informational interviews are most powerful when they evolve into genuine, ongoing professional relationships.

The Bottom Line: More People, More Opportunities

Every informational interview is a reminder that people shape your career more than any job board. And when you start showing up in conversations instead of just applications, doors open that you could never have predicted.

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About the Author: Deepthi Welaratna is a strategist and founder of Tiny Little Cosmos, a studio that helps individuals and organizations navigate moments of change with clarity and creativity. Deepthi has led workforce and leadership initiatives with universities, nonprofits, and companies, including Parsons ELab at The New School, the University of Toronto, The Knowledge House, Google, and the Center for Global Policy Solutions.