Staying in touch creates the possibility that a person you meet for an informational interview can refer you to appropriate job openings discovered in his or her own company or at another employer. I recommend following up every 3 to 4 weeks (until you accomplish the goals you have for your informational interviews) by sending something of interest to them, such as:
Thanks for the Introduction
Hi (Name),
It was great to talk with you (last week, last month) about (name of career/field).
I wanted to let you know that I reached out to (name of person) as you suggested, and I’ve set up a time to talk with (him/her) about (the purpose of the conversation).
Thanks again for your time and making the (suggestion / introduction)!
Sincerely,
[Your name]
[Your phone number]
[Your email address]
[Link to Your LinkedIn Profile]
Thanks for the Introduction Follow-Up
Hi (Name),
I’m writing to let you know that I had a terrific conversation yesterday with (name of person). I was so impressed with (Name’s) fascinating (career / background / accomplishment).
Our conversation really helped me get a feel for (name of field / career), and I can clearly see how my (skill 1), (skill 2) and (skill 3) skills would enable me to bring a lot of value to this (field / position).
Thanks again for making the introduction! I sincerely appreciate your support to help me identify the right new (career or job) for me.
Best wishes,
[Your name]
[Your phone number]
[Your email address]
[Link to Your LinkedIn Profile]
Feedback on Your Progress
Hi (Name),
It was great to talk with you (e.g., last week, last month) about (name of position).
Since we met, I’ve talked with XX people in the field. Like you, the people I’ve talked to feel my skills and background are a great fit with this (position or career field). It’s clear to me that a career in (name of field/position) is the right choice.
Thanks again for taking the time to give me the information I needed to make sure I’m choosing the right new (career direction or job).
If I can be of assistance to you in any way, please let me know.
Best,
[Your name]
[Your phone number]
[Your email address]
[Link to Your LinkedIn Profile]
Send a Link to an Interesting Article or White Paper
Hi (Name),
How are you? As you may recall from our previous conversation, I have been exploring the (name of position or career field) to see if it is the right new career for me.
I recently came across this article and I thought you might be interested in what it has to say about (briefly summarize an interesting or controversial point in the article).
Here’s a link: [Add link]
Take care,
[Your name]
[Your phone number]
[Your email address]
[Link to Your LinkedIn Profile]
Send a Link to an Upcoming Industry Conference or Professional Association Meeting
Hi (Name),
I hope you are doing well. I just saw the (name of professional association) is hosting a meeting on (date) that will feature (Name of presenter) talking about (name of topic) Here’s a link to more information about this meeting: (link)
By the way, I’ve spoken with several people in (name of field), and I have decided it’s the right field for me. I am going to start working on my (career transition / job search) now!
As always, if I can be of assistance to you in any way, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Best,
[Your name]
[Your phone number]
[Your email address]
[Link to Your LinkedIn Profile}
Let Them Know About a Course or Program You Just Completed
Hi (Name),
I wanted to let you know that I revised my résumé to include the recent course I completed in (subject). I learned a lot of (new skills, strategies) that will help me be an even better asset to an employer.
If you know of anyone looking for a (name of job title) with this kind of knowledge, please feel free to forward my information to them.
Thanks again for your assistance. If I can be of assistance to you in any way, please do not hesitate to ask.
Best,
[Your name]
[Your phone number]
[Your email address]
[Link to Your LinkedIn Profile
Related Articles
Making the Informational Interview Successful 100 Percent of the Time
