What are coffee chats and how do I do them?
A two minute crash course on the art of a coffee chat:
A coffee chat is a short, informal conversation with a professional to learn about their career path, industry insights, and advice.
These conversations can be either virtual or in person and may lead to mentorship, referrals, or even future job opportunities.
Here are the four basic steps to a coffee chat:
1. Reach out.
1. Look for alumni from your university in roles you’re curious about or at organizations you admire using platforms like LinkedIn, your university alumni database, and company websites.
2. Send a short, personalized message via LinkedIn or email. Introduce yourself, explain why you’re reaching out, mention a specific reason you’re interested in them, and ask for 15–20 minutes to learn about their experience. Note any connection you may have with them (university, mutual friend, hometown, etc)
3. Repeat this as many times as you can.
2. Prepare.
Set Clear Goals: Know what you want to learn and gain from the conversation.
Research: Learn everything you can about the person, the industry they’re in, and the company they work for.
Plan: If in person, accommodate to their preferences for location/time, dress in business professional, and arrive early.
Have Questions: Come with questions based off your research/goals for the chat.
3. The Chat
- Be both professional and personable.
- Guide the conversation with prepared points and questions you want to cover.
- Listen actively and show genuine curiosity.
- Find connections between the two of you that make you more relatable
- Be conscious of their time and space- a coffee chat should last around 15-30 minutes
4. Follow Up.
Close the chat by thanking them for their time and summarizing a key takeaway from the discussion. You can also reaffirm your enthusiasm for the field or company.
- Ask if they know anyone else they think you should talk to or follow up with
- Send a follow up email- wait one business day after the chat.
- Keep in contact. Make a spreadsheet with names, companies, and facts so you remember to follow up during recruiting season.