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How do I write an effective informational interview request to a professional in my field?
Personalization is key - Generic requests are less likely to get a response compared to messages tailored to the recipient's background and interests.
Leverage mutual connections - Mentioning a shared contact significantly boosts your chances of getting a reply, as it establishes an indirect relationship.
Brevity matters - Concise, well-structured messages of 3-4 paragraphs are more effective than long, rambling emails.
Timing is critical - Avoid sending requests during busy periods like Monday mornings or Friday afternoons when professionals are less likely to respond.
Subject lines drive open rates - Use a clear, specific subject line that conveys your purpose, such as "Informational interview request - [Your Name]".
Research the recipient - Knowing their role, company, and background helps you customize your approach and demonstrate relevant interests.
Quantify your request - Suggest a 20-30 minute meeting, as overly open-ended requests can be daunting for busy professionals.
Express genuine interest - Explain why you specifically want to speak with this individual and what you hope to learn from their expertise.
Offer scheduling flexibility - Propose 2-3 potential meeting times to increase the chances of finding a mutually convenient slot.
Follow up tactfully - If you don't receive a response, wait 1-2 weeks before sending a polite follow-up to avoid appearing pushy.
Emphasize your appreciation - Thank the recipient in advance for their time and willingness to share their insights.
Proofread carefully - Ensure your message is free of typos and grammatical errors to maintain a professional tone.
Consider alternative channels - LinkedIn can be an effective platform for making warm introductions and informational interview requests.
Adapt to the recipient's preferences - Some professionals may prefer a phone call or in-person meeting over email, so be flexible.
Study effective templates - Reviewing sample informational interview request emails can provide useful structure and phrasing ideas.
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