A lot of times those still in school and even those actively searching for a job want to know what can be done to heighten the chances of being selected for an opportunity. One frequently untapped strategy is capitalizing on the informational interview. In a simple sense, this is merely a meeting for you to "learn more" about a firm. You aren't going in expecting anything in return, just to get to know them.

How can this be effective?

1. It allows you to build your network. If you know that a particular firm isn't currently hiring and you still go in to talk with them about their work. When an opportunity does come up, who do you think will be top of mind? You are also getting your foot in the door and giving them an opportunity to learn about you too.
2. It displays your proactivity. When you reach out to a firm and express an interest to learn about them for your future career decisions, it sends a message of proactive enthusiasm. It shows that you take your career seriously and that you are willing to take the time to make wise decisions in your future.
3. You learn what firms want and what is important to them. This will be a valuable skill for the rest of your career. To be able to understand the "spirit" of the profession. When you meet with firm owners and talk to them about their practice, you get a first hand account of what's important. Career counselors are great, but nothing beats the actual source.
4. You get more comfortable talking to firm owners. Again, a skill that will tremendously aid you for your whole career. Especially when first starting out, talking to a professional architect can be scary. An informational interview removes all pressure while at the same time allowing you to practice your communication chops.

So how does one go about getting an informational interview and what are some things to consider beforehand?

1. First and foremost we have to acknowledge that people running firms are very busy and they may not have the time to sit down for something like this. That's okay. The best strategy is to give them an easy-out. For example, at the end of your email say something like: "...and I know that you must be very busy, and given our limited interaction prior to this, I totally understand if you are not able to get back to me..." Most people hate having to tell someone "no," so even if you don't get a respond, your message will have been appreciated.
2. Be brief in your inquiry. This is just a display of respect over the other person's time. Something like: "Hello! My name is Sean. I am a 4th year architecture at ________. I loved your website and I've just been reaching out to a couple of firms to learn more about the profession. I'll be graduating soon and have found a lot of value in hearing what firm owners have to share about their practice and the profession as a whole. If it would be of any interest to you for me to come by and visit for 20 minutes or so that would be amazing.(insert 'easy-out' here)..."
3. Try to build on connections you already have. The best way to go about this is to reach out to people you already have some kind of connection to. Asking your professor if you could chat with them about their practice is a lot easier than a total stranger for example. Or you could even ask someone you know to make an introduction.

And lastly, once you get the interview what do you ask?

It really depends on what you're interested in, but some good things to consider is asking the firm what they tend to look for in a new-hire at your level. You can ask them about their vision for their future and their team. And even about things like their methodology on mentorship and supporting a path to licensure. Just a few questions like that will get the conversation going.