Work At Home

Informational Interviewing for the Telecommuter

So you are new to the telecommuting world and all you know is that you want to telecommute. You might have some idea of what you want to do. Maybe you want to be a virtual assistant. Maybe you want to do customer service. Maybe you want to define your job. Other than that, you are totally lost. You're scared to apply for anything and you feel like an idiot. Be not afraid, my child! It's time for you to learn to get some INSIGHT into the telecommuting world. It's time for YOU to book an informational interview. So how do you do that?

First make a list of questions that you need answers to (besides the obvious, "Where do I find a job?"). Use questions that ask about the industry, scheduling, what working at home is really like, etc. Remember, these are your questions that you need answers to. You need to develop these questions. Don't rush through this process.

Next, research some contacts. Find a virtual assistant on a board (or on the internet)that is working (or someone that has defined their own job if that is what you are going for). Learn about them; visit their website. Decide if you think this person will be able to answer your questions.

Third, take a deep breath and send them an email. You aren't asking for a mentor (because a lot of VAs, in particular, don't have the time it takes to efficiently mentor someone. It's not that they are mean and don't want to but since they want you to succeed they won't get involved and risk leaving a bad taste of the industry in your mouth). You are asking for an informational interview. Use something like:

Dear Ms. Christian,

My name is Jane Doe and I am thinking about getting into the VA industry. I looked at your website and I am impressed with your wide range of talent [flattery helps but don't go overboard]. May I ask you some questions pertaining to the industry and assisting?

Thank you for your time,

Ms. Jane Doe

Now, the name of the game is waiting. If the person you picked says no have another person in mind. Hey, have three or four (if you can) and send them an email tailored to them to answer your questions.

Once you have an idea of what the industry is like (you can even ask your contacts what was the toughest interview question that was ever asked of them when applying for a position) you will be better prepared and might even know how to head some beginning problems off in the past. Remember though, they are doing YOU a favor so send them a thank you e-card or note.

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Robin Christian
http://www.soonerservices.com