Want to stand out before your job interview? Reaching out to current employees can give you insider knowledge, boost your confidence, and help you tailor your responses, especially in competitive UK job markets. Here's how to do it right, professionally and effectively.
Jump to:
- Why connect with employees before interview?
- How to network with company employees pre-interview
- Contacting company employees before the job interview
- Tips for reaching out to employees before interview using LinkedIn
- Tips on what to ask before the interview
- Best questions to ask current employees before an interview
- How to prepare using employee insights before interview
- An employee referral vs. an informational connection – what’s the difference?
- Getting a warm introduction to employees pre-interview
- FAQs: How to connect with employees before an interview
- Final takeaway: Build trust, not pressure
- References & further reading
Why connect with employees before interview?
Building rapport with people who already work at the company gives you:
- Realistic insight into company culture
- Role-specific preparation tips
- A potential internal advocate or referral
In the UK, where networking is often understated, this discreet, strategic approach can set you apart, particularly when done via LinkedIn or alumni introductions.
How to network with company employees pre-interview
Here’s a simple 3-step method:
Step 1: Start with who you know
Check LinkedIn for:
- Alumni from your uni who now work at the company
- 2nd-degree connections via colleagues or friends
- Shared professional groups (e.g. marketing, UX, or industry-specific)
Step 2: Soft engagement
Like or comment on a recent post or article they’ve shared. This warms up the connection before direct outreach.
Step 3: Reach out respectfully
“Hi [Name], I noticed you work at [Company] and I’m preparing for an upcoming interview there. Would you be open to a short chat to share your experience? I’d really appreciate your insights.”
Keep it short, polite, and tailored.
Contacting company employees before the job interview
Is it okay to contact company employees before interview?
Yes, as long as you’re respectful and transparent. In fact, many UK professionals are happy to share advice, especially if you’re early in your career or genuinely curious.
Do:
- Message during workweek mornings (Tuesday–Thursday)
- Mention mutual connections or interests
- Keep it non-salesy and time-limited (10–15 mins)
Don’t:
- Ask for job details they can’t share (e.g. interview questions)
- Push for a referral right away
- Chase if they don’t reply
Tips for reaching out to employees before interview using LinkedIn
LinkedIn is your best tool. Here’s how to optimise your approach:
- Customise every connection request
- Use their job title or team name in your message
- Follow up just once if they haven’t responded after 5–7 days
Your goal is a brief informational chat, not a job offer. Every step is a step in the right direction.
Tips on what to ask before the interview
These chats work best when:
- You have done basic research already
- You ask specific, thoughtful questions
- You keep it conversational
- “What’s the team culture like?”
- “What helped you succeed in the interview process?”
- “What does a typical project look like for someone in your role?”
This shows curiosity (not entitlement) and is valued in UK hiring culture.
Best questions to ask current employees before an interview
How to prepare using employee insights before interview
Once you’ve spoken to an employee:
- Tailor your STAR examples to reflect what matters in their team
- Mention what you’ve learned (briefly) in your interview. “Speaking with a team member gave me insight into how collaborative the environment is, which aligns with how I like to work.”
- Reflect on cultural alignment – a key UK hiring factor
An employee referral vs. an informational connection - what’s the difference?
An informational chat is to gain insight and understand culture.
Best used: Before or after application
An employee referral is for direct endorsement to the hiring manager.
Best used: When your CV is a strong match and rapport is established.
Tip: If the conversation goes well, and they offer support, it’s okay to ask:
“If a referral process exists and you’re comfortable, I’d be grateful if you’d consider putting in a good word.”
Getting a warm introduction to employees pre-interview
A warm intro (from a shared connection or mutual LinkedIn group) massively increases your chances of a response. Try tools like:
- LinkedIn’s “request introduction”
- University alumni networks
- Company open days or industry events
FAQs: How to connect with employees before an interview
Final takeaway: Build trust, not pressure
Connecting with employees before your interview isn’t about hustling, it’s about building insight, showing initiative, and being human. With the right approach, you’ll walk into your interview with a clearer sense of what the company values and how you can contribute.
References & further reading
- Prospects UK – Interview tips
- ivee – How to connect with employees at a target company
- ivee – How to generate warm leads using LinkedIn
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