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If you’re looking for a job, a great way to learn more about the industry you’re interested in or to find new opportunities is by holding an informational coffee – where you meet up with a pro in the industry of your desiring, and pick their brain. Author Blaire Appotive tells you how it’s done.
When I graduated University, I wanted to break into the advertising industry. The problem is I had no connections, no experience and no way of finding out who was hiring. I decided to have coffee with one person in the industry and from there ask them if they had two other people I could speak to and so on and so forth.
It took about 20 informational coffees before I found a job, but it worked! Along the way, I made a bunch of mistakes and learned a lot about how to handle these meet-ups. When I first started I found it a bit nerve-wracking – definitely stressful; but by the end I was a pro. Here are my five tips on how to do an informational coffee:
Do NOT ask for a job
Under all circumstances, do not ask for a job or if there are any jobs coming up. This may seem strange because you are looking for a job, but it will turn the person off. They will think that you are not interested in learning about them or the industry and they will be unlikely to help you in the future. Keep the conversation to asking about their career path, their experiences in the industry and advice they would give to someone who is just starting out.
Be prepared – do your research
Since you’re meeting a complete stranger, you need to have some questions handy to ask in case conversation stalls. You’re there to learn about them – and not talk about yourself, so ask thoughtful questions. Look at their LinkedIn profile or biography on their website beforehand so you can learn more about them.
Be the first to arrive
Arrive at the meeting spot 10-15 minutes early. If they show up and you’re already sitting with a coffee at your table, it gives the impression that you’re eager and excited to learn. It’s very important to not be late or the opportunity is gone before it even began.
Take notes
Taking notes shows that you are serious about the meeting and you want to learn about them. Make sure to listen and pay attention when they speak and only take notes when it’s something important to jot down.
Always send a thank-you email
Best to write a thank you email as soon as possible – ideally right when you get home so you don’t forget. The thank you email is also your opportunity to ask if they have two other people in the industry you can connect with and talk to. If they enjoyed meeting you, they will be happy to help you in your job search.
Blaire is the founder of Ignite Consulting which provides digtal marketing services to small businesses and entrepreneurs. Based in Toronto, she loves what the city has to offer: film festivals, food trucks, hiking trails and a thriving startup community.
Have you ever done an informational coffee – or something similar? Did you have any success? We want to hear from you! Share your experiences in the comments section below.