How to Conduct a Remote Informational Interview
How to Conduct a Remote Informational Interview
The challenge of remote networking
You want to move into a new remote career path, but you do not know anyone in the field. You send a few generic LinkedIn requests and hear nothing back.
For a related Working Nomads article, read phone interview tips to keep handy before you decide your next step.
That is where an informational interview can help. CareerOneStop defines an informational interview as a meeting to learn from someone working in a field or company that interests you on its informational interview guide.
Write a clear request
Busy people are more likely to say yes when the request is specific, short, and respectful of their time.
| Generic Request | Targeted Request |
|---|---|
| "Can we chat about your career for an hour?" | "Can I ask you three specific questions about your transition to product management in a 15-minute call?" |
| "I'd love to pick your brain." | "I read your recent article on remote leadership and would love to hear more about your specific framework." |
| "Let me know when you are free." | "I am available Tuesday at 2 PM or Thursday at 10 AM EST, but I can adapt to your schedule." |
Keep the first message under five sentences. Say who you are, why you chose them, and how much time you are asking for.
Prepare for the conversation
Once they agree to talk, do the homework. Do not ask questions you could answer from their LinkedIn profile or company website.
Use your limited time for questions that need a real person’s perspective.
- Research their background: Review their role, company, recent projects, and published work.
- Prepare specific questions: Ask about challenges, skills, hiring patterns, or lessons learned.
- Test your tech: Check your microphone, camera, and internet before the call.
- Bring notes: Keep your questions visible so you do not ramble.
Respect the time limit
Your reputation depends on how you handle the clock.
Set a timer. Near the end, say, "I want to respect your time, so I’ll stop here. Thank you for talking with me." If they want to keep going, they can offer.
Send the follow-up
The conversation does not end when the video call closes.
Send a short thank-you message within 24 hours. Mention one specific thing they shared and how it helped you. Keep the door open without asking for another favor right away.
The best informational interviews feel generous, not transactional. Ask well, listen closely, and follow up like someone worth staying connected with.
What to Read Next
Read strengths and weaknesses to discuss during your interview if you want a related next step on interview prep.
Use how to ask for vacation days when you work remotely tips when you need more context before your next decision.