Did you know we are hiring? We are seeking an Employment Consultant that is just the right fit! Learn more about this and many other opportunities for employment in your JAM update for November 6th, 2023!

INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEWS

Are you on the lookout for a fresh career path but finding it challenging to determine your starting point? In addition to reaching out to your nearby WorkBC Centre for support, you can expand your career prospects by engaging in Informational Interviews.

What is an Informational Interview?

Informational interviews involve you, the job seeker, interviewing the individual who would typically be conducting the interview. This format tends to be less formal than regular job interviews and are more like guided conversations driven by your questions. Perhaps there is an organization that resonates with your passions and values, but you are uncertain if your skills match any of the positions they are recruiting for. In a scenario such as this, an Informational Interview can serve as a valuable tool to gain insight into the required skills before applying. Alternatively, if you are contemplating a career change and have limited knowledge about the job opportunities in a new industry, this can be a great way to establish a connection with an organization you’re keen on exploring further while conducting your comprehensive job search.

How to get an Informational Interview?

You can make a phone call and inquire about the possibility of arranging a brief meeting with the employer or hiring manager. When doing so, be sure to convey your intention to learn more about the organization and the various employment opportunities they offer. Similarly, if you are visiting a business that piques your interest and notice a “Help Wanted” sign, this presents an excellent opportunity to ask if someone is available for a conversation with regards to the working environment. Such an Informational Interview could potentially lead to an impromptu job interview! In either case, it’s essential to have your questions prepared and a means to take notes during the conversation.

Should I bring a list of questions to an Informational Interview?

YES! As mentioned above, bring a written list of at least three relevant questions to ask about working in the industry, or are specific to the organization. This step not only shows you are eager and motivated, but also demonstrates you are organized and a critical thinker!

Examples of Questions to ask during an Informational Interview: 

Your questions will need to be tailored to suit the person you are meeting with. For example, if the person currently holds a similar position you are interested in, you would ask, “What do you like most about your work?”  However, if the person you are meeting with is from the Human Resources department, you would ask “What do most people who work here say they like about their work?”

The following questions are suggestions to use when meeting with someone who currently works in the occupation you are inquiring about:

• What do you like best about the type of work you do?
• What do you like least about the type of work you do?
• What kinds of problems do you deal with?
• What do you perceive the organization’s culture to be? What type of person do you think bests fits this culture?
• What type of training opportunities are offered to employees in this industry?
• What are your main responsibilities as a…?
• What is a typical day (or week) like for you?

Most importantly, one of your questions should be “Are you hiring?” If the position is advertised, then there is no need to ask. However, if there are no current postings, be sure to ask about their hiring plans as you conclude the interview. Lastly, be sure to ask if they have any feedback or suggestions and show your gratitude for the time they spent with you.

Informational Interviews are excellent as they are low-pressure, less formal than a job interview, and the conversation can not only showcase your interest in the organization/industry, but present an opportunity to let them know you are serious in your job search.  As well, an Informational Interview may encourage them to consider how your current skills might be a potential fit for future opportunities!

Keep in touch with us – we would love to hear about your next Informational Interview experience!

 

Tell us about your business/organization and what makes you stand out as an employer?

The Career Centre is an initiative of the Central Vancouver Island Job Opportunities Building Society (CVIJOBS), a non-profit organization supporting job seekers in District 69 since 1976. The organization’s core values include teamwork, professionalism, continuous learning and staff engagement. Our team demonstrates these values every day, and we are proud to contribute to the communities we serve.

How many employees do you have?

We currently have 16 (full time and part time) employees.

What do you look for in a new employee?

An individual who is positive, motivated and passionate about supporting job seekers in reaching their employment goals. We look for someone who is able to work independently, yet be part of a team and have the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Strong computer skills are required for all positions. We value candidates with experience and education in areas related to human services and for some positions, career counselling and administration.

Do you anticipate hiring in the next 6 months? If so for what types of positions?

Yes! We are currently seeking an Employment Consultant to join our Team.

What advice would you give someone who wants to work for your organization?

Do your research – check out our website, perhaps pop into the Career Centre Resource Room and become familiar with our work culture and the services we provide.

To support employment equity and diversity in the workplace, we welcome applications from all groups. This includes women, visible minorities, Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities, persons of diverse sexual orientation, gender identity or expression (2SLGBTQA+), and others who may contribute to diversity in our workplace.

What is the best way for someone to apply if interested in working for your organization?

Please apply as indicated on the job posting listed on our website.

Come work for us in a warm, friendly, collaborative working environment with respectable remuneration and benefits. Help us create positive experiences encouraging clients and colleagues to learn, grow and succeed!

Considering a career as a Bus Driver? Wondering if Self Employment is for you? Want to attend one of our Workshops? Learn more about these topics, what’s trending and more! Click here for your JAM update for October 24th!