Here's how you can expand your network as an administrative assistant using informational interviews.

1 Identify Targets

To begin expanding your network through informational interviews, start by identifying the professionals you admire or whose roles align with your career aspirations. Look for individuals who are in positions you aspire to reach or who work for companies where you might want to work in the future. Reach out to them with a polite and concise message, expressing your admiration for their career path and requesting a brief informational interview. Remember, the goal is to learn from their experiences, not to ask for a job.

3 Schedule Wisely

Scheduling informational interviews requires consideration of the other person's time. Propose a short meeting at their convenience, and be flexible with the format—it could be a phone call, video chat, or a coffee meet-up. Being considerate of their schedule and preferences shows professionalism and respect, which can help build a positive rapport and make the interaction more enjoyable and fruitful for both parties.

4 Prepare Thoroughly

Preparation is crucial for a successful informational interview. Research the individual's background, their company, and the industry trends. Prepare a list of thoughtful questions that demonstrate your genuine interest in learning from their experiences. This not only shows respect for their time but also enables you to have a deeper and more meaningful conversation, which can lead to stronger connections and potential mentorship opportunities.

5 Follow Up

After the interview, sending a thank-you note is essential. Express gratitude for their time and the insights they shared. Mention specific points from the conversation that you found particularly valuable. This follow-up is not only polite but also reinforces your interest in the industry and helps keep the lines of communication open for future interactions.

6 Nurture Connections

Finally, nurturing the connections you've made through informational interviews is important for long-term networking success. Stay in touch by occasionally sharing updates about your career progress or articles that might be of interest to them. Engage with them professionally on social media platforms where appropriate. By maintaining these relationships, you create a network of professionals who can offer support, advice, and opportunities throughout your career.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?