What is a Coffee Chat? Tools to Network and Get a Job
Coffee chatting is a form of networking. How can it help you build your connections and get a job?
With the rise of mass job applications and AI resume reviewing, it’s become all the more important to get yourself in front of a hiring manager from more angles than just your application. According to CNBC, 70% of jobs are never published publicly and 80% of professionals consider networking vital to their career success.
A coffee chat is an American term for informal conversation or networking chat with a professional to learn about their career, company, or industry. Coffee chats achieve that and more, as they help you gauge the role and energy of the company and the team you’d be interested in working with, and can even potentially get you a referral.
How to Schedule a Chat
Networking is about putting yourself out there, but it’s also about finding the right person. Use linkedin to look for alumni, professionals in roles you’re interested in, recruiters, or people working at companies you admire. Your existing networks also matter. Think about your university, shared interests, or similar career paths as these commonalities can make professionals more open and willing to help. Send a brief message over Linkedin or email first wishing them well, before promptly describing who you are and what you want.
Before the Chat
Research deeply into the person’s background, company, and role. Look through their Linkedin profile and websites, as shared interests can be a strong way to build rapport. Prepare 5–10 thoughtful questions that go deeper than something you can just find on Google or their Linkedin. Have follow up questions prepared as well. Most chats begin with them asking you to describe yourself and your journey. Have a brief introduction for yourself prepared that generally lasts 30-60 seconds and describes your trajectory, goals, and values without rambling.
During the Chat
Be sure to arrive at least five minutes early. This is a chat and not an interview, so let the conversation flow naturally and be sure to listen more than you speak. Take brief notes while maintaining conversation flow. You can ask questions related to their career, industry, company, and professional trajectory. Be sure that they are specific and relevant, while also letting the conversation naturally flow. The chat may open your eyes to the reality of the job or areas in the industry that you weren’t aware of, that they may give you resources for. If they offer you a referral, politely accept however DO NOT simply ask for a job or referral.
After the Chat
The follow up to the chat is just as important as the conversation itself. It is essential to send a thank-you message within 24 hours. Show what you learned by mentioning a specific insight you found helpful and referencing back to topics discussed during your chat. Connect on LinkedIn if appropriate. If they gave advice or referred you to a person, look into the actionable advice and reach out. If you professionally progress thanks to any of their advice, you can send a short email updating them, mentioning how the advice was useful. If you eventually apply to a role at their company, you may reach out again to let them know and, where appropriate, ask for a referral in a polite and considered way.