What is an informational interview?
An informational interview is a conversation where a job seeker or professional explores a role, industry, or company by speaking with someone who currently works in that space. Unlike a job interview, it’s not about applying for a position—it’s about gathering insights, learning about career paths, and building relationships.
For small business owners, informational interviews are a two-way opportunity. While they’re typically initiated by candidates, they can also be used by employers to attract future talent, mentor rising professionals, or explore potential hires in a low-pressure setting. With Homebase, you can streamline your hiring and onboarding systems so that when an informational interview turns into a real hiring opportunity, you’re ready to move quickly.
Why informational interviews matter for small businesses
While large corporations may be the first to receive informational interview requests, small businesses are often more approachable and flexible. By participating in these conversations, you can:
- Build your talent pipeline by identifying enthusiastic future candidates
- Increase brand awareness in your industry or local community
- Create networking connections that lead to referrals or partnerships
- Help emerging professionals understand your business model and culture
- Evaluate potential hires early, before there’s a job opening
What an informational interview looks like
Informational interviews are usually informal, one-on-one conversations lasting 20–30 minutes. They can happen in person, over the phone, or via video call. The person requesting the meeting usually prepares questions, while the host shares their personal experience and industry insights.
Common topics include:
- What your business does and how it operates
- How you got started in your role or industry
- What a typical day looks like
- Skills and experience needed to succeed in the field
- What you look for when hiring
- Advice for breaking into the industry or role
Even if there’s no open position, the interviewee walks away with valuable context—and your business remains top of mind if a future opportunity arises.
When small businesses should say yes to an informational interview
Not every request will be a good use of time, but informational interviews can be worth it when:
- The candidate has a genuine interest in your industry or business model
- You’re frequently hiring for the role they’re curious about
- You want to mentor up-and-coming professionals
- You’re looking to expand your network or brand in a competitive hiring market
- You have time during slower business hours or off-peak seasons
If you’re selective and intentional, these conversations can help cultivate a strong reputation as a great place to work.
How to prepare for hosting an informational interview
If someone reaches out requesting an informational interview, here’s how to prepare:
- Review their background – Check their resume, LinkedIn, or message to understand their goals
- Set expectations – Let them know this isn’t a job interview and you’re not hiring (unless you are)
- Schedule a time that won’t disrupt business – Avoid peak customer hours
- Create a relaxed, conversational tone – Focus on sharing, not evaluating
- Be honest and transparent – Share the challenges of your industry or role, not just the positives
- Offer practical advice – Recommend courses, entry-level jobs, or skills they should build
Can informational interviews lead to hiring?
Yes. While informational interviews are not job interviews, they often serve as a first step in a future hiring relationship. If the person makes a strong impression, you may:
- Reach out later when a position opens
- Refer them to another business or partner
- Invite them to apply for an open position
- Keep them in mind for seasonal or part-time roles
Many small businesses find top candidates through informal channels. An informational interview is often where that pipeline begins.
How Homebase helps when a conversation becomes a candidate
When an informational interview sparks real hiring interest, Homebase makes it easy to take the next step. You can post jobs, track applicants, schedule interviews, and onboard new team members—without needing a full HR department.
With Homebase, you can:
- Post open roles to multiple job boards in one click
- Track candidate conversations and follow-ups
- Customize job descriptions to match your real business needs
- Digitally onboard new hires with tax documents and checklists
- Manage schedules, time clocks, and payroll all in one place
Explore Homebase Hiring and Onboarding to connect meaningful conversations to real opportunities—and make hiring smoother every step of the way.