For Students Getting Info Interviews:

Your message to your target person: Dear Mr. Picone, I am an MBA student at XXX University, interested in entering the XXX industry when I graduate in the Spring of 20xx. Looking over your current and past positions within the XXX industry, I thought you would be an excellent person to ask questions about (Your target company) and the industry in general. Having worked at XXX as a research technician for X years, I am now looking to advance my career in a different direction, and work on the business end within the pharmaceutical industry. I would very much like to set up a time to speak with you, either over the phone or in person.   Please let me know if this is possible. I can be reached at [email protected] and 888.555.1212. Thank you for your time, Gitta Kwainted

Your Message to the Person Introducing You:

Gary, I’m interested in setting up an information interview with Michael Picone, one of your connections on LinkedIn. I would like to ask him about both his experience at (Target Company) and in the industry in general.   I would very much appreciate it if you would forward my message to Mr. Picone. Thanks for your help, Gitta Kwainted

For Professionals Getting Info Interviews:

Dear Mr. Picone, I obtained your name through the (name the common LinkedIn group or network) on LinkedIn. I have been working at (name last position) and I am in the process of making a career transition. It would be helpful for me to ask you questions about your experiences as an (name role) for (target company). I promise not to take more than 15 minutes of your time. I am not expecting to discuss a particular employment position but I would appreciate being able to talk with you on an informational basis. What is the best way to reach you this week? I have Thursday at 9 and Friday at 2pm available. I thank you in advance. Regards, Gitta Kwainted

For Professionals Connecting with a Hiring Manager:

Hi Christina, I ran across your profile on LinkedIn because I’m looking for Marketing opportunities at (target company). I’ve been following the fast growth of the company over the last 3 years and want to see if there may be a place for me to help out. I know there may not be open opportunities at the moment, just so I’m not wasting your time or mine, I’d love a chance to speak with you about the company and see if I might, one day, be a fit. I received an (name your degree) from XXX University, and spent the last 3 years working in sales and marketing for (name past company).   I specialized in (your elevator pitch). I promise not to take any more than 15-20 minutes of your time. Will you have some time this week for a chat? I have Thursday at 9 and Friday at 2pm available. Looking forward to your reply, Gitta Kwainted