Feeling unsure after a job loss is incredibly common. When the path ahead isn’t clear, the sheer number of possibilities—or the lack of obvious ones—can be paralyzing. You might be exploring various career paths, trying to figure out what truly resonates or where your skills might fit best in a changing landscape. In this phase of discovery, informational interviews are one of the most valuable, yet often underutilized, tools at your disposal. They’re not job interviews; they are low-pressure conversations designed to give you an insider’s view of a role, industry, or company, helping you gather the clarity needed to navigate your uncertainty and make informed decisions.

Actionable Steps: Your Guide to Insightful Conversations

• Identify People in Roles or Industries That Intrigue You: Leverage LinkedIn, alumni networks, and personal connections.
• Craft a Respectful Outreach Message: Clearly state your purpose – seeking information and advice, not a job.
• Prepare Thoughtful Questions: Focus on their experiences, challenges, a typical day, industry trends, and advice for someone considering the field.
• Conduct the Interview Professionally: Be punctual, respectful of their time, an active listener, and take notes.
• Send a Prompt Thank-You Note: Express your gratitude and reference a specific insight gained.
• Maintain the Connection (Optional): If appropriate, offer a brief update on your journey later or engage with their content on LinkedIn.

Details / How-To: Mastering the Art of Informational Interviewing

1. Identify People in Roles or Industries That Intrigue You: * Why: The goal is to learn from those who are already doing what you’re curious about. * How-To: * LinkedIn: Use the search filters (people, job title, industry, location – e.g., “Software Engineer in Test in Seattle/Kirkland,” “UX Designer in Health Tech”). Look for 2nd or 3rd-degree connections, or alumni from your university. * Alumni Networks: Your university’s alumni database is a goldmine of people often willing to help fellow alums. * Personal Connections: Think about friends, former colleagues, or acquaintances who might know someone in your field of interest. * Tip: Aim for a diverse list of people – different levels of seniority, different types of companies (startup vs. enterprise in the Kirkland/Seattle tech scene, for instance).

2. Craft a Respectful Outreach Message: * Why: People are busy. A clear, concise, and respectful request is more likely to get a positive response. * How-To (Example LinkedIn Message/Email): Subject: Informational Interview Request - Aspiring [Target Role/Industry] Professional

    Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Name],

    My name is [Your Name], and I came across your profile on LinkedIn (or, "I was given your name by [Mutual Connection, if applicable]"). I'm currently exploring career paths within the [Target Industry/Role] field after a recent transition from my role as [Your Previous Role] at [Your Previous Company].

    I'm very impressed by your experience in [Specific area of their work that interests you] at [Their Company]. Would you be open to a brief 20-30 minute virtual coffee chat sometime in the next few weeks? I'm not seeking a job opportunity, but rather hoping to learn more about your career journey, your insights on the industry, and any advice you might have for someone looking to enter this field.

    Thank you for your time and consideration.

    Sincerely,
    [Your Name]
    [Link to your LinkedIn profile]
* **Callout Box:**
    > **Guidance:** "Personalize your message slightly. Mentioning something specific about their profile or work shows you've done your homework and aren't just mass-messaging. Always be clear you're seeking information, not a job."

3. Prepare Thoughtful Questions: * Why: This shows you value their time and helps you guide the conversation toward the insights you need most. * How-To (Sample Question Categories): * Their Career Path: “Could you tell me a bit about your journey to your current role?” “What do you enjoy most/least about your work?” * The Role/Industry: “What does a typical day or week look like?” “What are some of the biggest challenges or opportunities you see in this field right now?” “What skills or experiences do you find most crucial for success in this role/industry?” * Company Culture (if applicable): “What’s the culture like at [Their Company]?” (Ask respectfully, perhaps focusing on aspects like collaboration or work-life balance). * Advice: “What advice would you give someone like me who is exploring this career path?” “Are there any resources (books, websites, courses, professional organizations) you’d recommend?” “Is there anyone else you think it would be beneficial for me to speak with?” (This last one is key for expanding your network). * Tip: Have more questions ready than you think you’ll need, but be prepared to go with the flow of the conversation. Don’t just read from a list robotically.

4. Conduct the Interview Professionally: * Why: Even though it’s not a job interview, you’re making a professional impression. * How-To: * Punctuality: Be on time, whether it’s a virtual call or (less commonly these days) an in-person meeting. * Time Management: Confirm the allotted time at the beginning (e.g., “Thanks again for speaking with me. I know we have about 20 minutes…”). Stick to it, unless they indicate they have more time. * Active Listening: Pay close attention, nod, ask clarifying questions. Make it a genuine conversation. * Take Notes: It shows engagement and helps you remember key details. * Offer to Share (Briefly): You can briefly state your background if they ask or if it provides context for your questions, but keep the focus primarily on them and their experiences. * Tip: If virtual, ensure your background is tidy, your internet connection is stable, and you’re dressed presentably (business casual is usually fine).

5. Send a Prompt Thank-You Note: * Why: It’s courteous, professional, and reinforces your appreciation for their time and insights. * How-To: Send an email within 24 hours. * Example Snippet: “Thank you so much again for taking the time to speak with me yesterday. I particularly appreciated your insights on [mention something specific you discussed, e.g., ‘the importance of X skill’ or ‘the future trends in Y industry’]. It was incredibly helpful as I continue to explore my career options.” * Tip: A handwritten note can make an even stronger impression if you have their business address and it feels appropriate, but a timely email is perfectly acceptable and often preferred.

6. Maintain the Connection (Optional): * Why: Building genuine professional relationships can be beneficial long-term. * How-To: * Connect on LinkedIn (if you haven’t already). * If you act on a piece of their advice (e.g., read a book they recommended, talk to someone they referred you to), you could send a brief follow-up email a few weeks or months later to let them know and thank them again. * Engage with their professional posts on LinkedIn if it feels natural. * Tip: The goal isn’t to pester them, but to nurture a potential professional relationship respectfully.

When you’re feeling unsure about your next career move, informational interviews can be a beacon. Each conversation is a chance to gather a piece of the puzzle, to learn something new, and to test your assumptions about different roles or industries. These interactions not only provide valuable information but can also boost your confidence, expand your network, and sometimes even uncover unexpected opportunities or paths you hadn’t considered. Embrace the curiosity; this exploratory phase is a powerful step toward finding a direction that truly excites you.