What to Ask in a Coffee Chat: Mastering the Art of Informational Interviews
Coffee chats are invaluable for networking, learning, and exploring career paths. But walking into one unprepared can leave you feeling awkward and unproductive. This guide will equip you with the best questions to ask, ensuring your coffee chat is both insightful and memorable.
Before the Chat: Research is Key
Before you even think about questions, research the person you're meeting. Look at their LinkedIn profile, company website, and any published articles or work they've done. This preparation allows you to tailor your questions and demonstrate genuine interest.
The Golden Rule: Focus on the Other Person
Remember, this is an informational interview, not an interrogation. The goal is to learn from their experience, not just to fill your own knowledge gaps. Frame your questions to show genuine curiosity and respect for their time and expertise.
Questions to Ask During Your Coffee Chat:
About Their Career Path:
- "What's your career journey been like? What were some unexpected turns or pivotal moments?" This open-ended question encourages a narrative response, giving you valuable insights into their professional evolution.
- "What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced in your career, and how did you overcome them?" Learning about their challenges provides invaluable lessons and practical strategies you can apply to your own journey.
- "Looking back, what advice would you give your younger self just starting out?" This question provides valuable retrospective advice that you can immediately implement.
- "What skills or experiences do you think are most crucial for success in your field?" This helps you identify areas where you need to focus your development.
About Their Current Role & Industry:
- "Can you describe a typical day or week in your role?" This provides a realistic view of the day-to-day responsibilities.
- "What are some of the most rewarding aspects of your job?" This helps you gauge your own interest and alignment with the role.
- "What are the biggest changes you've seen in your industry recently, and how has your company adapted?" Demonstrates your awareness of industry trends and your interest in learning more.
- "What are some of the emerging trends or technologies shaping the future of your field?" This question keeps the conversation forward-looking and relevant.
About Their Company & Culture:
- "What's the company culture like at [Company Name]?" Understanding the work environment is vital.
- "What opportunities for professional development does the company offer?" Shows you're proactive about growth.
- "What advice would you give someone interested in working at [Company Name]?" This offers direct, insider advice.
About Their Network and Advice:
- "Are there any books, articles, or resources you would recommend for someone interested in this field?" This shows your desire to continue learning.
- "Who else in your network would you suggest I connect with?" This is a powerful way to expand your network.
- "What are some of the best ways to stay updated on developments in this industry?" This shows your dedication to professional growth.
Questions to AVOID:
- Questions easily answered through online research. Show you've done your homework.
- Questions that are solely focused on getting a job. Focus on learning, not just job hunting.
- Closed-ended questions requiring only "yes" or "no" answers. Aim for open-ended questions that encourage detailed responses.
- Overly long or complicated questions. Keep it concise and clear.
After the Chat:
- Send a thank-you note. Express your gratitude for their time and reiterate your key takeaways.
- Follow up if appropriate. If you discussed further connections or next steps, follow through.
By asking thoughtful and engaging questions, you can transform your coffee chat into a valuable networking experience that opens doors to new opportunities and expands your professional horizons. Remember, genuine curiosity and respectful engagement are key to making a lasting impression.
