An informational interview email asks someone to share their experience, not to give you a job. The best message is brief, shows that you chose the person for a reason, and requests a small amount of time. A clear, respectful ask can help you learn about a career path while building a useful professional connection.
Table of Contents
What to include in the request
- Who you are and how you found the person.
- One specific reason their experience interests you.
- The career question or topic you hope to discuss.
- A short time request, usually 15 to 20 minutes.
- Flexible availability and a low-pressure way to decline.
Informational interview email template
Subject: Request for a brief informational interview
Hi [Name],
My name is [Your name], and I am exploring a career in [field]. I found your profile through [source], and your experience moving from [background] into [current role] caught my attention.
Would you be open to a 20-minute conversation about your work and the skills that matter most in this field? I am hoping to learn more about [specific topic], not ask for a job or referral.
I am available [option one] or [option two], but I am happy to work around your schedule. I understand completely if you are not available.
Thank you for considering it,
[Your name]
Email to someone you found through an alumni network
Subject: Fellow [school or program] graduate hoping to learn about [field]
Hello [Name],
I am a [current student or graduate] of [school or program], and I noticed that you now work in [role or industry]. I am considering a similar path and would appreciate hearing how you built your experience after [school, training, or first role].
Would you be willing to speak for 15 minutes sometime this month? I would come prepared with a few specific questions and keep the conversation focused.
Thank you,
[Your name]
Email to a professional you do not know
Subject: Learning about your experience in [industry]
Hi [Name],
I have been learning more about [industry or role], and your work on [specific project, specialty, or area] stood out to me. I am especially interested in how professionals develop [skill or responsibility] early in their careers.
If you are open to it, could I ask you a few questions in a short call? I know you have a busy schedule, so I would be grateful for any time you can spare.
Best regards,
[Your name]
How to prepare before sending the email
Read the person’s professional profile, identify one genuine point of connection, and prepare three questions. Avoid asking for information that is easy to find elsewhere. Your goal is to learn from the person’s judgment and experience.
For related career messages, see our guides on asking for a job reference, writing an academic email during a difficult situation, and emailing a recruiter.
What to ask during the conversation
- What does a typical week look like in your role?
- Which skills have been most useful in your career?
- What do people often misunderstand about this field?
- What would you recommend learning or practicing first?
After the informational interview
Send a thank-you email within a day. Mention one useful insight from the conversation and explain how you plan to use it. If the person offered a resource or introduction, follow through promptly and let them know what happened.
Bottom line
A strong informational interview request is specific, modest, and respectful. Show why you chose the person, ask for a short conversation, and prepare enough to make the time worthwhile.