Set Up the Advanced Research Session
Requesting an informational interview or job shadowing session can be intimidating. It might feel like you’re inconveniencing a person or taking up their time. Rest assured, most professionals are happy to share their career experiences and knowledge with others. Just be sure to plan appropriately, follow the guidelines, and get the required permission first.
Informational interviews are a friendly chat to learn from someone’s experiences.
Many people enjoy having you shadow them at work. They like to show what they do and help you learn more about their job.
Here is a step-by-step guide to help you feel comfortable and confident when preparing for an informational interview or job shadowing session.
How to prepare for an
Advanced Research Session:
1. Identify people to meet with.
Ideally, you will want to speak with someone who is experienced in the job. A supervisor or manager of the department is also a good option.
Ask your supervisor, co-workers, or the Human Resources Department for ideas and referrals if you need help.
2. Call or email the person.
Get in touch with the person to see if they are interested in doing an informational interview or job shadowing session with you, and if so, figure out a time that works.
See the sample conversation to the right that you can use for phone or email.
3. Confirm the appointment the day before.
Schedules change and sometimes emergencies happen. Send an email the day before the session to confirm the time and location.
4. If job shadowing, learn about the process.
Typically the Human Resources, Talent Acquisition, Workforce Development, or other department manages the job shadowing process. As your first step, talk with someone in your organization to learn about the process, guidelines, and requirements.
Here is a sample conversation to use when contacting someone for your informational interview or job shadowing session. You can copy this sample email to use as a template. Then, edit the text with specific names and information.
“Hi ____. My name is _____. I want to make a
career change, so I’m researching different jobs. I’m
not at the point of applying for a new job; I just want
to understand what the job and career path are like.
I’m very interested in learning more about (Job Title;
Career Field.) (Name) suggested that I reach out to
you.
Would you be open to setting up a 20 to 30-minute conversation with me? (For job shadowing: Would you be open to me job shadowing you and observing what you do on the job? )
That's OK! Is there someone you'd recommend that would be open to a conversation (or: being observed)?
NO
YES
Thanks!
What's the best way to reach them?
Great! Would you prefer to meet or have a call? (or: How long would you be open to me observing you for?)
For Job Shadowing:
OK. Are there any special things I should know about? For example, is there a certain dress code, rules around jewelry, or special immunizations I might need?
Sounds good. Do either of these times work for you? (give them 2 possible times)
What is the best place for us to meet? What is the best number to reach you?
OK. Thanks for taking the time to talk with me. Enjoy the rest of your day!
YES
Great! Would you prefer to meet or have a call? (or: How long would you be open to me observing you for?)
For Job Shadowing: Ok. Are there any special things I should know about? For example, is there a certain dress code, rules around jewelry, or special immunizations I might need?
Sounds good. Do either of these times work for you? (give them 2 possible times)
What is the best place for us to meet? What is the best number to reach you?