While I haven’t been on many informational interviews myself, I’ve given thousands over the past fifteen years. When I started my fundraising career, I wasn’t aware of informational interviews and simply applied for jobs as they became available. Over time, awareness of informational interviews has grown, and more people are using them as a valuable tool for career development. Fortunately, fundraisers tend to be an outgoing, helpful group, often happy to connect and share insights. Informational interviews are an excellent way to explore career paths—whether you’re considering a future as a Director of Development or trying to understand which fundraising sector or organization might be the best fit.
Making Connections and Building Your Network
The more you network and make your name known in the fundraising community, the more doors will open in the future. Imagine a scenario where a colleague or supervisor is hiring and asks, “Do you know anyone good?” This is when we think of people we know—former colleagues, individuals from AFP events, or even those we met in an informational interview years ago.
For managers, conducting informational interviews regularly can help build a talent pipeline, enabling long-term thinking about HR. While most requests come from junior fundraisers or aspiring professionals, these individuals could grow into candidates for future roles. Social media platforms like LinkedIn make it easy to stay connected, so you can track career progression and reach out when the timing is right.
The Unique Advantage of Informational Interviews
Unlike a job interview, an informational interview doesn’t carry a direct agenda. When applying for a job, it’s clear that you want that role now, which can create a sense of urgency. In an informational interview, however, there’s no immediate pressure. It’s a chance to connect with someone in an organization, even if you don’t have the qualifications yet for a specific role. This dynamic is less transactional, giving you an opportunity to learn about the organization or position in a balanced, non-committal way.
Be Strategic in Your Approach
Sometimes, it’s not a specific role but the organization itself that interests you. Be selective and limit your outreach to one or two key people in the organization. Even in large organizations, people talk; too many requests can come across as desperate. Choose a contact who aligns closely with your interests—often someone who’s in the role you aspire to, rather than reaching directly to the Executive Director.
Mind Your Etiquette
Although informational interviews are often more relaxed and may even take place over coffee or, increasingly, virtual platforms like Zoom or Teams, they require the same level of professionalism as a formal interview. Approach them with the same preparation and respect. Research the organization, arrive (or log in) on time, and come prepared with thoughtful questions. Remember, your contact may be taking time out of their coffee or lunch break to meet with you, so punctuality is even more crucial here than in a formal interview.
Embracing Virtual Connections
In today’s landscape, informational interviews have expanded beyond coffee shops to virtual spaces like Zoom and Teams, offering even more flexibility. Virtual meetings allow you to connect with professionals across regions and even globally, which can be a great advantage. Just be sure to apply the same etiquette: find a quiet space, dress professionally, and make the most of the face-to-face time, even if it’s on a screen.
Make Informational Interviews Part of Your Career Strategy
Informational interviews are a powerful form of networking that can yield long-term career benefits. By incorporating them into your career advancement strategy, you’ll gain valuable insights, expand your network, and increase your visibility in the field. Over time, the connections you build can become stepping stones to new opportunities.