1. Prepare a list of fields you'd like to research, either as an
employee or entrepreneur. Prioritize the list by starting with the
ones that call to you the most.
2. Prepare your list of questions. What would you like to learn?
Although your questions may vary according to the field, there are
certain ones that are always valuable to ask:
For entrepreneurs, you might also ask:
- How long did it take you to establish your business?
- Where do you find most of your clients?
- What percentage of your time do you spend on the actual work of
your business versus marketing, administration, and other tasks?
3. For each field of interest, make a short list of individuals or
organizations to approach. Two or three is a good number, depending
on how many fields you are exploring. Be creative by asking everyone
you know for ideas of who to contact. You can call organizations directly
and also use professional associations and directory listings to find
leads.
4. Call each lead, introduce yourself and request 15 minutes of their
time for an informational interview. If your first contact is by email,
you'll want to call within a week to follow up. You'll be surprised
at how many people enjoy contributing to their profession in this
way.
5. Come prepared to take notes. Whether by phone or in person, just
be yourself and enjoy the conversation. The pressure is off because
you're not asking for a job. Even if you do find out about a job opportunity,
wait until the next day to apply in order to maintain clear boundaries.
By the same token, do not offer your resume unless someone specifically
asks to see it, so it is useful to always carry a few copies with
you.
6. Don't forget to express your thanks after each interview with either
a letter or email the very next day.
7. Review and organize your notes when the process is complete.
What field(s) can you now cross off your list? Which one(s) seem even
more appealing? Add these new contacts to your files, and you're ready
to plan your next step of action.
In this way you can combine the best of practical
research and your heart's strongest calling to
build a result that is financially sound as well as personally fulfilling.
