{"id":8325,"date":"2009-09-14T22:09:23","date_gmt":"2009-09-14T22:09:23","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.uwb.edu\/?p=8325"},"modified":"2025-10-31T17:32:48","modified_gmt":"2025-10-31T17:32:48","slug":"career-conversations","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.uwb.edu\/career-services\/resources\/networking\/career-conversations","title":{"rendered":"Career conversations"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

What is a career conversation?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sometimes called informational interviewing, a career conversation involves talking with a person or people who are currently working in the field to gain a better understanding of an occupation or industry — and to build a network of contacts in that field. It is an informal way for you to learn about company culture, day to day tasks of a job, and career paths.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to schedule a career conversation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Do your research, think about what you want to learn by asking for a career conversation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Use your network to schedule a career conversation; alumni, friends or family are a good way to start. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can call, email, or write a letter to request a career conversation. Ask for 20 minutes of their time and remember you are not asking for a job, just information!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Example<\/h4>\n\n\n
\n\n <\/path>\n<\/svg>

Hello Holly, I am a Business student at UW Bothell and found you through our Alumni on LinkedIn. I am exploring a career path in your area of expertise and your job at UW sounds fascinating. Would you be willing to speak with me for 20-30 minutes about your experience in the industry?\n <\/path>\n<\/svg><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

Be prepared<\/h3>\n\n\n\n