Coffee chats. They sound so casual, right? But if you’re networking, job hunting, or just genuinely curious about someone’s work, these informal meetups can be a goldmine… or a serious awkward fest.
The difference? Great questions.
Forget those stiff, “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?” clunkers that could make your latte go cold. Let’s get ready with coffee chat questions that actually spark a meaningful conversation.
Your “Coffee Chat Questions” Menu
The “Warm-Up”: Start easy! Ask a fun variation on the usual “What do you do?” Try “What’s a project you’re excited about lately?” or “What’s the most surprising thing about your field?”
Dig a Bit Deeper: Show genuine interest. Instead of generic questions, connect to their profile. “I noticed you volunteered with [Organization], that’s awesome! What drew you to their mission?”
The “Future Focus”: Avoid getting stuck in today’s job description. Ask about their goals: “Where would you love to see your career go next?” or “Any skills you’re really keen on developing?”
Advice Please: Flattering and helpful! “What’s one piece of advice you’d give someone starting out in your field?” or “What’s a common misconception people have about your job?”
The “Flipside”: If it feels right, ask something a bit personal, but respectful: “What do you do to recharge outside of work?” Shows you see them as a whole person!
Extra Tips for a Smooth Brew:
A Little Research Goes a Long Way: Check out their LinkedIn or company website beforehand for talking points. Make a word cloud to group common themes and interests that you can tap into more.
It’s a Conversation, Not an Interrogation: The best follow-up questions come from actively listening to their opinions.
Be Mindful of Time: Aim for that 20-30 minute sweet spot. Respect their schedule!
The Thank-You Note Seals the Deal: A quick follow-up email shows you value their time and reinforces your interest in connecting.
Bonus Round: If You’re the One Getting Asked for Coffee Chats
Be ready with some insights about your journey and goals! Think of it as a two-way exchange.
- Have Your “Elevator Pitch” Ready: A concise summary of your experience and goals.
- Think Two-Way Street: What would you like to learn from them? Prep some thoughtful questions of your own.
The Takeaway
Coffee chats are about more than just exchanging business cards. When fueled by engaging questions, these casual meetups can spark opportunities, build valuable connections, and even give you career clarity.
