The Ultimate Information Interview Playbook: How to Build Relationships That Lead to Job Opportunities

When it comes to landing your dream job, most people think of resumes, job boards, and endless applications. But the secret weapon that most overlook? The informational interview.. It's not about asking for a job; it’s about building relationships, learning from the experts, and positioning yourself for future opportunities.

Now, let’s break down the step-by-step process that will have you standing out from the crowd in any industry—whether you're switching careers, levelling up, or trying to break into tech sales.

How to run an informational interview - A step by step guide

1. Small Talk (5 Minutes)

The first step is where many people fumble. It’s all about setting the tone. Small talk isn’t just a warm-up; it’s the glue that builds rapport and turns your conversation partner into an advocate for your success.

Pro Tips for Small Talk:

- How’s your day going so far? 

  - If they give you a generic response, no worries—move on.

  - But if they open up about a recent challenge or experience, follow the energy! If they talk about their kids, a sports game, or a project—dig into that.

Here’s the magic trick: If you show genuine interest, you'll never struggle with small talk. Ask about their career journey without actually asking, “Tell me about yourself.” Try, “So what’s been your path to joining [Company]?

Keep your answers short if they ask about you— 2 minutes tops.

The goal isn’t just to talk; it’s to connect. And that connection? It’s everything. Rapport is what gets you referrals, intros, and advocacy.

2. The Q&A (Where the Magic Happens)

This is the part where most people start asking for jobs. Don’t do that! You’re here to learn, to gain insight. If you make it about them and not you, they’ll want to help you naturally.

Trends: 

• Get them talking about changes in their industry. People love this!

  - What trends are impacting your business right now?

  - How has the industry changed since you started?

Insights: 

- Get personal. What surprised them about their job?

- What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned on the job?”

Advice: 

• Don’t ask for a job—ask for guidance.

  - If you were me, what would you do right now to prepare for a role in this industry?”

Resources:

  - “What resources should I look into next to stay ahead in this field?”

Why This Works:

When you ask for advice, people take ownership of your success. It’s a psychological hook. They don’t want to give bad advice, so they’ll go the extra mile to help you.

### 3. **Next Steps: Plant the Seed**

Even if they don’t offer a direct referral, leave the door open for follow-ups.

#### Here’s how you close:

- “Thank you so much for your time today. I’m going to reflect on everything you shared and may reach out with more questions. Is that okay?”

A week later, follow up with:

- “I’ve been reflecting on what you said and would love your advice on who I should talk to next.”

By framing them as the expert, they’ll naturally want to offer up names and introductions.

Bonus: Follow Up is the Game Changer

If they introduce you to someone, **reply to both** contacts within 24 hours. Then, send a separate thank-you email to the original person, keeping them in the loop on your progress.

This process isn’t just about getting a job—it’s about **building relationships that will last your entire career**.

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### Key Takeaways:

- Start strong with genuine small talk.

- Follow the T.I.A.R. framework to keep the focus on your contact and not yourself.

- Never ask for a job; ask for advice, insights, and resources.

- Close with gratitude, reflect, and follow up with another ask.

At the end of the day, people hire people they know, like, and trust. This playbook is how you build all three—without applying to a single job board.