Ask for an Informational Interview

I'd like to request an informational interview with someone in my field whose career I admire. Please help me craft a polite, confident message that would make them more likely to say yes to sharing their advice and insights. Here's my situation: - Person I'm contacting: [THEIR POSITION/ROLE] - My connection to them: [HOW I KNOW OF THEM - LINKEDIN, MUTUAL CONTACT, ADMIRE THEIR WORK, ETC.] - My current status: [STUDENT, PROFESSIONAL, CAREER CHANGER, ETC.] - My field/industry: [MY INDUSTRY OR TARGET INDUSTRY] - What I hope to learn: [SPECIFIC AREAS I WANT ADVICE ON] - Why I'm reaching out to them specifically: [WHAT MAKES THEM VALUABLE TO TALK TO] Please help me create a message that: 1. Is clear, concise, and respectful of their time 2. Introduces myself and my purpose compellingly 3. Shows I've researched them and their work 4. Makes a specific, time-limited request (like 20-30 minutes) 5. Makes it easy for them to respond (yes or no) 6. Clearly communicates this is for advice, not a job request 7. Demonstrates professionalism and preparation Please provide: 1. A draft message I could use via email or LinkedIn 2. A subject line if it's an email 3. Tips for timing and sending the request 4. Suggestions for follow-up if I don't hear back 5. Advice on how to respond if they say yes or no I want to make a positive impression while respecting their time and position.