Informational interview request email
People are more generous than you expect when the ask is small and specific. Ask for 15 minutes and one question you cannot answer by yourself.
Subject: 15 minutes of advice?
Hi [their first name], [why you picked them], and I wanted to reach out. I am exploring [what you are exploring]. Would you be open to a 15-minute call in the next couple of weeks? The one thing I most want to ask is [one question you want to ask]. If you are too busy, I understand completely, and I would be grateful for a pointer to someone else to ask. Thank you, [your name]
How to get it right
- Be specific about why you chose them. Generic flattery gets ignored.
- Ask for 15 minutes and keep to it. Offer a few time slots and a call or a video chat, whichever is easier for them.
- Come with three questions and follow up with a thank-you the same day.
- Ask at the end who else you should talk to. That one question builds a network.
Questions about this template
- What is an informational interview?
- A short conversation with someone in a role or company you are curious about, to learn about the work, not to ask for a job. It builds your network and your sense of the market.
- Will people really say yes?
- Many do, especially when the request is short, specific and flexible. Expect a reply from roughly one in three. Follow up once after a week.
- Should I ask for a job in the call?
- No. Ask for advice and for names. If there is an opening, the person will usually tell you.
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