Information Interview

Query Letter

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Information interviews are a fantastic way to learn more about writing careers. The purpose of the information interview is to gather information—not to get a job. However, many interviewers land jobs as a result of an information interview.

Dr. Margaret Walters, author and writing professor at Kennesaw State University, suggests following these four steps to conduct a productive information interview.

 

Step 1

Locate a writer who works on the kind of writing that you are interested in. Contact the writer; most people like to share information about their work and will grant you a brief interview.

Request fifteen minutes of the writer's time to meet with you and answer questions about what it is the writer does—what a typical day is like, what kind of writing is done, what career advice he or she could offer you, and so on.
 
Step 2

Prepare a one- to two-minute biographical introduction about yourself. The person you interview will probably ask you about yourself; be prepared!

Organize your introduction like this:

15 seconds: Something attention grabbing about your background—where you were born, where you grew up, what characterizes you.

15-30 seconds: Your education—are you a student, currently working, preparing for a career change?

30 seconds: Your experience and why you are interested in a writing career.

15-30 seconds: Where you want to be in five years or what you want to achieve in the future.
 
Step 3

Craft questions around information you would like about this type of writing job. Take note paper and pen with you. Dress professionally—you want to make a good impression. You are only seeking information; this is not a job interview. However, take along a copy of your résumé. When the interview concludes, ask the person if he or she would be willing to look over your résumé and advise you on its merits. They may pass it on to an interested party should a job or internship open up that you may qualify for. If the person hears of an opportunity, he or she can provide your résumé to the appropriate contact.

Thank the person for spending time with you, answering your questions, and sharing information about his or her job. Also, ask the writer if he or she knows anyone else whom you might talk to about this type of writing career—aim to get at least two other names of people you might interview. This is a good way to begin networking with other writers.
 
Step 4
The same day, on personal stationery or a nice card, write a thank-you note to the person you interviewed. This will ensure that he or she remembers you as someone who is professional and thoughtful.