A Harvard career advisor suggests three methods for requesting an informational interview.

Conducting informational interviews can be a valuable way to advance your career. These informal conversations with individuals in your company, industry, or outside of it can provide insight into various roles and help you determine your career goals. They may also lead to job opportunities in the future.

Gorick Ng, Harvard career advisor and creator of the "How To Say It" flashcard series, states that showing up, sharing your story, and asking about their background is the key to effective communication.

What is the process of obtaining an informational interview? Ng suggests that the method of requesting one depends on the level of acquaintance with the individual you wish to interview.

You can reach out to people you know directly

According to Ng, first degree connections are individuals you already know, such as those you met in college or while socializing with friends. These are people with whom you have had direct communication.

He recommends using the below blueprint for reaching out:

Ng reminds them of how they know him and immediately explains the reason for his contact, emphasizing that it is only for them.

You can ask mutual friends for an intro

To connect with someone who is a second degree connection, you should reach out to your mutual contact, as suggested by Ng.

To convey your seriousness and specificity in your request, you should present it in a highly targeted manner, as Ng suggests.

You can reach out via LinkedIn

According to Ng, third degree connections are individuals with whom you do not have a direct relationship or mutual connection. To communicate with them, you will need to conduct research on their background and then either find their email address or send them a message on LinkedIn.

Here's what Ng suggests saying:

I'm reaching out to you specifically to share our mutual interests and if you're open to it, I hope this is an opportunity for you to pay it forward.

According to Ng, flattery is a low-cost way to show appreciation, and it can be especially effective in cold messaging. Young people may feel like they have nothing to offer in return, but flattering someone can make a significant impact.

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