Networking is defined as identifying and developing professional relationships or acquaintances with individuals
within or outside your field of study.
Networking is imperative during the job search process. Approximately 70-80% of jobs are not advertised,
according to College Recruiter. This means it will take a strong
network to find the jobs you most want.
Informational Interviews are informal opportunities to speak to professionals currently working in a specific
area of interest to you. Learn first-hand about working in the field and/or company. Knowledge gained from an
informational interview is not usually accessible online. It is not a job interview, and the focus is not to
learn about job openings.
Why should I seek out an Informational Interview opportunity?
Learn from a professional in an area of interest what it’s “really” like to work in an industry or company.
Build a network of professional associates within your field of study or major. As these relationships
develop, these new acquaintances may be able to direct you to possible positions or other professional
contacts.
Research career paths and options.
Acquire tips about how to prepare to enter a specific field or industry.
Meet others with the same or similar majors and learn about the diverse opportunities.
Find out more about a specific organization (culture, mission, goals, typical day, etc.)
Gain confidence and experience in communicating with professionals.
Get additional information that can assist in your career search (contacts, resume, interviewing, networking, etc.)
* Adapted from Berkeley University of California Career Center
How to begin:
Ask to speak to individuals for 10 – 20 minutes via phone, in-person, skype, etc.
Buy the individual coffee or lunch
Ask questions about their career path and field of interest
Inquire about names of other professionals in the field they would suggest you speak with
Several Graduate Student Learning Communities started at ISU in Fall 2012. Because of the success of these GLCs,
we are encouraging other programs and departments to start their own GLCs to enhance the graduate student
experience at Iowa State. We also invite distance graduate programs to propose virtual GLCs.