How to start informational interview

Hey everyone,

So I always start called with "Hey xxx, this is yyyy, is this still a good time to talk?" and they usually respond with "Hey yyy, yea this works?" and then I feel awkward going to "Okay, so I can tell you a little bit about myself"?

How should I start my calls?

4 Comments
 

Ask them about themselves, if they first don't as you to tell them about yourself. Just say something like, "So what is it that you do at xxx company?" Even if you already know what they do, it's a good way to star the conversation.

Array
 

Funny thing, most of the info interviews I did started with them immediately asking me about my background. For the others, they went ahead and started giving their own background and then asked for mine. If that doesn't happen, I'd still say just prompt the background discussion by just asking for theirs. You can just respond with your own and you'll be able to focus more on things you might have in common that you just learned.

I do this myself with students that reach out to me. It's like a personal pitch, how well someone can craft their own concise story. It's a quick indicator of who you're dealing with.

JUST DO IT. Don't let your memes be dreams.
 

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