The Informational Interview is Dead (Do This Instead)

The informational interview is dead.

Everyone knows what it is.

It’s code for “I want a job but I’m pretending I just want advice.”

Nobody wants to take that meeting.

Here’s what works instead: specific, valuable questions.

Don’t send: “Would you have time for an informational interview?”

Send: “I saw you recently transitioned from startup to enterprise sales. I’m considering a similar move and would love to hear what surprised you most about that shift. Would you have 15 minutes next week?”

See the difference?

You’re not asking for a favor.

You’re asking for specific insights about their experience.

You’ve done research.

You have a clear question.

You’re respecting their time with a specific duration.

This gets responses.

Because it’s not a vague networking request.

It’s a real conversation.

Here’s the other trick: don’t hide that you’re job searching.

Everyone knows you are.

Be honest about it.

After the conversation, say: “This was incredibly helpful. I’m actively looking for roles in this space, and if you know of any teams hiring or people I should talk to, I’d really appreciate an introduction.”

Direct.

Not desperate.

Most people will help if you ask clearly.

They won’t help if you pretend you’re just “gathering information.”

Be specific, be honest, be respectful of their time.

That’s how you turn conversations into opportunities.