Interviewing: It’s not fun, it’s not easy, and not many are complete superstars at it. The best way to improve any skill is to practice, practice, practice, and that’s what dress rehearsals—err, informational interviews are all about. Remember all those business cards that you collected at Ed’s last happy hour? Time to put them to use! Ed got the scoop from a handful of editors and HR representatives to give you the skinny on how to land that informational interview—the most important dress rehearsal of your career.
Scene 1: The Contact
The best place to start is by reaching out to people you’ve met at events, at jobs/internships,etc., or through fellow Edsters, but if you’re hitting dead ends with your contacts, try getting in touch with HR. Ed lists typical email formats and HR numbers and emails here. In this industry, said one HR rep, it never hurts to contact both editors and HR, but don’t aim too high (like an executive level editor) or too low (like an EA). Try someone mid-level like a senior editor who will know what’s going on regarding staff openings, said one editor. Most mags have one person who handles all of the info interviews. One HR rep also suggested getting in touch with your alma mater. You’d be surprised at how helpful alumni can be!
Scene 2: The Greeting
It’s not uncommon to find a job posting that does not have a contact name listed with it. However, Ed does not suggest addressing an email (even to a generic address) with “to whom it may concern.” This industry is too competitive, so every edge you can get counts! Ed’s trusted sources suggest using either “Dear/Hi First Name,” or just sticking with the last name when addressing the contact. Several HR reps warned to never use “Hey!” or anything too colloquial. And be observant! Address them in your follow-up email the same way they signed their name in their last email to you.
Intermission: Do some research!
Before you even send the email, get to know the editor you are contacting, said one editor. Where have they worked? How do they contribute to the magazine? It’s easier to establish a connection with the person when you know more about his or her background, and they’ll be more likely to respond to you if they see a connection as well. If you aren’t super familiar with the magazine, read the last issue or two so you can make a few relevant points, said an HR rep. You won’t be judged on whether or not you’re a subscriber, but you will be judged on how well you understand the overall feel of the magazine.
Scene 3: The Email
Keep it short and sweet. What is short? Five to ten sentences and readable without having to scroll down, said one editor. What is sweet? Flatter the editor! Tell him/her how much you liked their piece in the latest issue, said another. Be creative! Since you’re only writing a few sentences, at least one of them needs to be something catchy or clever. Include a line or two that thoughtfully references the magazine and why you’re interested, said an editor. And be specific about why you want to meet with them. Do you want advice? If so, then be prepared to talk very specifically about what you’re looking for. Are you looking for an in with a particular magazine? Be prepared to know exactly why you chose that magazine.
Scene 4: The Interview
Unfortunately, Ed can’t be there for you during the main event. But as long as you’ve done all of your research and had a few rehearsals, you’ll do fine! Remember to bring extra copies of your resume (resume paper still scores points these days!) and a portfolio with clips, etc. This is your chance to make a lasting impression, said one editor, so make it count. Most importantly, said one editor, remember to say thank you! Say it in person (with a nice, firm handshake); send a follow-up email; and then show that you’re capable of going the extra mile and send a hand-written note.
Break a leg!
