Explore Careers
SETTING UP AN INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEW
Before you attempt to schedule an informational interview,
develop an outline or script of what you are going to say. This will decrease
your anxiety and increase your chances of getting the results you want.
Follow these basic guidelines to set
up an informational interview:
- Say who you are and why you
want to get together.
- Make it clear you are not
asking for a job.
- Mention a personal referral
or mutual interest to stimulate interest.
- Ask for a brief meeting
at a convenient time.
| SAMPLE LETTER |
| |
| Dear: |
|
I am a communications major at UCLA,
and am interested in a journalism career. Joe Bruin suggested that
you might be willing to share your work experiences and offer advice
on how
|
| I might better prepare to break into
the field. |
| At this time I am not looking for a
job, but am interested in learning as much as I can about journalism
as a career field. |
|
I will greatly appreciate spending a
few minutes to get your perspectives on the challenges and opportunities
in journalism. I will contact you next week to arrange a convenient
time to meet.
|
| Sincerely, |
| Your Name |
| SAMPLE TELEPHONE
SCRIPTS |
| #1 |
| Hello . . . my name is ________________.
Joe Bruin suggested I call you because I am doing some research on
careers in journalism. He thought you would be a good person to answer
some questions I have about the profession. I could meet you for coffee
or lunch one day. Or, if it is more convenient, I could call back at
a time when you might have 15 or 20 minutes to spare. Do you think
you might be able to find some time for me? |
| #2 |
|
Hello. . . my name is ________________.
I recently heard you speak at a Los Angeles Journalism Club meeting.
I’m a senior at UCLA, and am interested in a journalism career.
I’m not looking for a specific job
at this time, but I’d really appreciate the opportunity to discuss
some specific questions about this career field. Could I schedule
15 or 20 minutes with you at your convenience? I could meet you
at your office.
|