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December 18, 2006
Informational Interviewing
Informational interviewing can be a very effective networking tool, as well as a great way to help you explore what types of law spark your interest. Law school alumni are one of the best sources for informational interviews. The CSO has alumni lists and contact information available for students who are interested.
So you've made a phone call to a contact, now what should you say? Well for starters, you do not want to ask your contact for a job or tell them that you are looking for a job. Most people are flattered when asked to give advice, but it makes for an awkward situation if you ask your contact for a job - something that they probably can't just give you. What you do want to start off with is mentioning the source that provided the contact to you in the first place. This gives your contact a frame of reference and sets them at ease. Then give a brief description of who you are and state what you're looking for. By that, I mean, "I'm a first year at Case Western and (insert source of contact info. here) recommended that I contact you. I'd really like to learn more about international law and I was hoping I could take you out for a cup of coffee to hear more about what you do." If your contact is able to meet with you - great! If not, you simply want to thank them anyway, and of course, ask if they know of anyone else who might be able to speak with you.
The etiquette during an informational interview is very similar to regular interviewing, but remember, you are the one who will be asking the questions. Come to an informational interview prepared with questions about how your contact got to where they are now. What is a typical day like for them? What classes did they find most useful in law school? And finally be sure to thank them for their time and always ask if they know of anyone else they think you should talk to.
For more information on this effective networking tool, stop by the CSO and talk to a counselor!
Posted by cld30 at December 18, 2006 09:30 AM