Many job seekers begin their job search by researching the latest job listings, submitting their resumé or application, and waiting for the employer to call them to come in for an interview.
But did you know that most open positions are not advertised?
One strategy that can increase your chances of finding a job with a company you want to work for is an informational interview. This informal conversation helps job seekers learn about the company, build a relationship with a new contact, and gain additional job leads.
“Informational interviews are a way for job seekers to get their foot in the door and to make the most of their job search,” says David Smallman, Career Development Practitioner with Career Development Services (CDS). “They also offer a way to make valuable connections that can help them find success.”
Preparing for the meeting
The first step is to consider which employers you might like to work with. After creating a list, research each one by finding recent news stories, exploring their website, or speaking with employees, he says. “Find out who they are and the work they do. Look for the name and contact information of the person responsible for hiring. That is who you will be approaching.”
Next, ensure your resumé is up-to-date, and tailor it to match each company you wish to approach. Do not be afraid to ask for help preparing your resumé, he says. “If you haven’t been hearing back from employers, or if you haven’t updated your resumé in a while, check with someone such as a CDS staff member who can make sure it is ready to go before you schedule the interview.”
Making the call
Rather than risk sending an email that may go unseen, connect with the hiring manager through a phone call, David says. “Just be yourself and be honest. Let them know that you are looking for a job and that you are interested in their company. Ask them if they have time to meet with you to have a conversation.”
During the interview
Be sure to bring your updated resumé, as well as a notebook to keep track of leads or other information that the hiring manager provides you with, David says.
“The important thing to keep in mind is that this isn’t the same as a job interview, where an employer will be asking you questions. You are interviewing the employer, so create a list of questions that can help you determine whether this is a company you want to work for.”
Possible questions to ask the employer/hiring manager
- What services or products do they provide?
- How many staff, and what are their titles and duties?
- What does a typical day look like at their workplace?
- Future plans for the company?
- Upcoming positions they might need to fill?
- What are the requirements for the job(s)?
- What are their hiring practices?
- Do they have any additional job leads for you at this time?
“Avoid asking about wages, salary, or benefit packages,” David says. “Instead, focus on information about the work culture. Ask what their work looks like, and the skills that they might be looking for in a potential employee. You want them to see that you are interested in the company, and not just a job.”
Typically, the interview will last 15 to 30 minutes. As it comes to an end, let the employer know if you are interested in working with them, he says. “Tell them that if they are hiring now or in the future, you would like to apply for a position. The promise of continued communication shows dedication, and it is key to networking, so let them know when you will follow up.”
After the interview
Within a day or two of the meeting, send an email thanking the employer/hiring manager for their time and reiterate your interest in working with them. You may also ask if they have any additional job leads for you at this time, David says. “PEI is small, and those in the business world are often well acquainted. The more people who put out the word that you are looking for a job, the more success you will find.”
David encourages anyone needing additional support with their job search to connect with CDS directly. “We are here to help job seekers at any stage of their career. Give us a call, make an appointment, and we will help you get on the right path to finding meaningful employment.”
TO LEARN MORE
about Career Development Services and the services they offer job seekers, visit www.cdspei.ca
To find an extensive list of employers on PEI, visit www.employmentjourney.com/where-to-find-names-of-pei-employers/
