What does the term 'informational interview' refer to?

The term 'informational interview' refers to a meeting where a job seeker gathers insights from a professional in their desired field. This practice is valuable for individuals looking to explore different career paths or industries, as it allows them to ask questions about the professional’s experiences, the skills needed in that field, and the overall job market. Informational interviews are not about securing a job; rather, they focus on networking, obtaining advice, and gaining a deeper understanding of a particular career or organization. This dialogue can provide job seekers with guidance and information that can help them make informed decisions about their career paths.

In contrast, a formal interview for a job position is a structured session between a candidate and employer with the specific intent of evaluating the candidate for employment. An interview about company policies focuses on discussing the rules and regulations within a company, which does not align with the intentions of an informational interview. Lastly, a question-and-answer session in a classroom setting is typically educational in nature and does not pertain to individual career exploration or networking.