12 Networking Strategies for Recent Graduates

6. Create Value-First Informational Interview Requests

Informational interviews are short, focused conversations where you learn from someone’s experience rather than ask for a job. Request 20 minutes and offer a precise reason for choosing them, such as their work on a product you admire or their career path from your major. In your message, suggest two short time options and one quick question to show respect for their time. During the chat, ask for one action you can take next and one person they recommend you speak with; these concrete asks often yield referrals. End the call by offering a small piece of value in return, like sharing an article or introducing them to a peer working on a related topic. Afterward, send a thank-you note within 24 hours that highlights one takeaway and states the next step you’ll take. Templates below make outreach faster and more effective.