On the first day of your internship, you were probably introduced to everyone in the office, but now you realize that you only talk to a small number of the same people everyday. Internships are about expanding your professional network, so before your internship ends take the time to get to know someone new and learn more about their position at the company and how they got there. While it would be nice to interview someone who is in a similar position you would like to be in, it really doesn't matter who it is, because you never know what connection someone may have, or you may discover a new career path.
When you've picked the person whom you would like to interview (you can interview more than one person), reintroduce yourself to them and tell them you would like to know more about them and what it is that they do. You can say something along the lines of:
"Hello, I know that we were introduced on the first day, but since then I haven't had the opportunity to interact with you, so I would like to know if, one day, when you aren't busy I could talk with you to learn more about your position here at the company."
Notice that I didn't add "informational interview" because you don't want the person to feel like this is a formal interview and she or he will be grilled with questions because that is not what it is. This is more of having a conversation with someone, getting to know them, while having a few guiding questions in the back of your mind. Some questions to consider asking are:
- How did you get started in this industry/ company?
- What are some of the biggest changes that you've noticed in the industry?
- What steps do you recommend I take in order to be successful in this industry?
- What are some of the things you do on an everyday basis?
- What do you think is unique about your job?
Again, don't treat this like a format interview and have a list of questions that you are reading off of, but do keep those questions in mind, and, if you're like me then maybe bring a pen and paper to write down anything important.
At the end of the interview, remember to thank them for their time, and ask for their business card so that you can keep in touch. Also, pick up a thank you card and send a hand written note, trust me they will appreciate it more than an email.
If you've done an informational interview or have any questions. Share them with me on Twitter @tiatamjam and be sure to use the hashtag #workandplay
Tia James is a student
at the University of Missouri, studying Strategic Communications. She
is passionate about helping others with branding, job search, and
career development, which she received training on from her school’s
Career Center. In her spare time, Tia loves watching movies and
YouTube, and making crafts. One day she hopes to own her own agency
that focuses on branding and advertising. For more advice, check out
her blog at tiajames.wordpress.com
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