An informational session is an event hosted by an organization to provide information to a targeted audience, such as job seekers or prospective students. It offers a direct channel for individuals to learn about a company’s culture, a specific program’s curriculum, or other opportunities. They represent a chance to move beyond generic online material and engage with an organization on a more personal level to gather firsthand knowledge.
What is an Informational Session?
An informational session is a tool for attracting talent and building interest. Companies use these events to create a pipeline of qualified candidates, showcase their brand, and communicate their values. For universities or specialized programs, the goal is similar: to recruit promising students by detailing the unique aspects of their offerings and academic environment.
Most sessions begin with a formal presentation. This portion provides a broad overview of the organization, its mission, and specific details about the roles or programs being highlighted. This presentation is often led by representatives, such as recruiters, current employees, department heads, or admissions officers.
Following the main presentation, the floor is usually opened for a question-and-answer period. The format of these sessions can vary significantly; they might be held on a university campus, at a company’s headquarters, or as virtual events. Some in-person events also include a more casual mingling period with refreshments, offering a chance for informal, one-on-one conversations.
Benefits of Attending
Attending provides access to insights not available through standard online research. You can learn about the nuances of a company’s work environment or the specific focus of an academic program directly from the people involved. This “insider” information can help you determine if the opportunity is a genuine fit for your goals and personality.
These events are also an opportunity to have your specific questions answered. While online FAQs are helpful, a live session allows for follow-up questions and more detailed, personalized responses. Engaging directly with representatives shows your genuine interest and initiative, helping you stand out from other applicants. Recruiters often take note of candidates who ask insightful questions and engage thoughtfully during these events.
Another advantage is the chance to build your professional network. You can make personal connections with recruiters, hiring managers, current employees, and other decision-makers. These interactions can lead to future guidance or job leads. Establishing this initial rapport can make your subsequent application more memorable, as representatives may connect your name to the positive impression you made.
How to Prepare
Thorough preparation is necessary to maximize the value of an informational session. Before attending, dedicate time to researching the organization. Review its website, recent news, and social media presence to understand its mission, products or services, and recent developments. This foundational knowledge will prevent you from asking basic questions that are easily answered online and allow you to formulate more substantive inquiries.
Develop a list of thoughtful questions that demonstrate your research and genuine curiosity. Instead of asking “What does your company do?,” consider asking about the future direction of the organization, the typical career progression for an entry-level employee, or specific challenges a department is facing. Having these prepared questions ensures you are ready to engage meaningfully during the Q&A portion of the session.
Finally, address the logistical details well in advance. For an in-person event, confirm the date, time, and location, and plan your travel to arrive a few minutes early. For a virtual session, test the platform link beforehand and ensure your internet connection is stable. Plan to dress in business casual attire, even for virtual events, to present a professional image.
Making the Most of the Session
During the session, practice active listening and take concise notes on important details, such as projects, company values, or specific skills mentioned. When the Q&A segment begins, be prepared to ask one of your well-researched questions clearly and professionally. If there is a networking portion, approach conversations with confidence, introduce yourself briefly, and focus on learning from the representatives rather than directly asking for a job.
Your engagement should not end when the session concludes. A prompt follow-up helps solidify the connections you made. Within 24 hours, send a brief, personalized thank-you email or LinkedIn message to the presenters or individuals you had meaningful conversations with. In your message, reference a specific point you discussed to help them recall the interaction. This reinforces your professionalism and continued interest in the organization.