Why You Should Be Going on a Professional Coffee Date Today
- SpeakEasy
- Mar 9, 2016
- 3 min read
Never underestimate the value in a cup of coffee. We all know it gives us the strength to get through the day, but a cup of joe can give us much more. Especially, when it is shared with someone else.
The value in getting coffee with someone will be ten times more valuable than the strength it gives you to get you through the day – and that is saying something. A professional coffee date is a simple idea, but can develop you professionally in a big way. It gives you the opportunity to learn more about what other people have done to give you direction.
Plus, meeting with someone you admire, or are unfamiliar with will help you become more comfortable talking to people who fall into those categories. Which, make interviews and networking events less awkward later on.
One of the biggest things a coffee date can do is build a relationship. A professional coffee date may turn into a mentorship relationship and be someone to bounce ideas off of. The relationship formed will also help build your network by, possibly, giving you an inside person to an organization of interest, who can vouch for you.
Like dating, professional coffee dating can seem awkward, weird and confusing. No worries, SpeakEasy is here to help. Here is how you should do a professional coffee date.
STEP 1- Find Your Date
Who you should ask is where you need to start. Think about where you want to go and what you want to do, and find people who are doing those things. It could be someone who is in a position you admire or who could provide insight to somewhere you’d like to be. Think of people in an industry of interest, peers who recently accomplished what you’re aiming for, career advisors, or people in the community with connections in your areas of interest. Get creative!
STEP 2- The Prep Work
Now that you know who are going to coffee with, it is time to do a little prep. Start by writing down a few goals you hope to accomplish from the meeting. Next, add them on social media, particularly LinkedIn, and read up on their profiles. Before you say you’re interested in a certain industry, make sure you know why and are up to date about it. Research what’s going on and know your stuff!
Lastly, write down a list of questions to help you get started with the conversation. Think of questions like, what led you to your current role, and what would you do differently knowing what you do now. Remember the coffee date isn’t for you to grill them. It’s to have a conversation! But it helps to know your goals going into the date.
Doing the prep before will keep you on track and ensure you don’t waste their time. Don’t worry if you don’t get all of your questions answered. The date should be used to get the ball rolling.
STEP 3- What to Wear
A professional coffee date is often a time to make a solid first impression. Keep that in mind in the way you dress. Business casual is your best bet. (We’ll have a blog on that coming soon.)
STEP 4- Be Present
It is tempting to want to capture everything your date is saying, but don’t get caught up in taking notes. It is important to remain present. After all, you did ask them to coffee. Write down only what you feel you might forget like links to resources or book titles.
Asking someone on a professional coffee date may seem out there for you but people are doing it and reaping the benefits. Even our trainers have received job offers and leadership positions that stemmed from a professional coffee date.
The risk may just be worth it if it means accomplishing your goals and dreams. Plus with our steps, you are off to a great start!
