LESSON 7. GET READY, GET SET…

Lesson Objectives

Learn the purpose of the informational interview

Develop a structure for their informational interview

Resource Checklist

Papers, pens, markers, or computers

Warm-up

Review from the previous class what an informational interview is. Make sure that everyone has identified a contact person and has set up a time to meet the contact person..

1. Go over the purpose of the informational interview. Explain that in order to find out if the career they have identifies fits the student, you must go talk to people actually doing the work that interest you. Things to point out include:

  • When you are talking to people, you are hoping they will give you some idea of what the work feels like, from the inside
  • Find out what the day-to-day work is like
  • What technology do they use
  • Find out what the work setting looks like
  • Take pictures, tape record, or small video clip, take notes
  • Find out what products/services are offered
  • Specific Job Qualifications: physical, educational, age limits, etc.
  • Ask questions
  • How did you get into this work?
  • What do you like the most about it?
  • What do you like the least about it?
  • What kind of training do I need?
  • What is the appropriate dress?

2. Now it’s the students’ turn. Have them work individually or as a group to come up with an action plan which includes questions they will want to ask, and things to note during the interview. Have the groups report back on what their plan looks like.

Wrap-up

After the groups have presented their action plans, have them add to their own plan from the other groups that should help their informational interviews run smoothly. Use the copier to make copies so each person has their own. Wrap-up with questions and reminders for their on-site informational interviews. The students should have their interviews completed by the next class period.