25 Coffee Chat Networking Questions
Setting up a coffee chat with a coworker or professional in your field is a strategic way to grow your network. When you attend a coffee chat as the organizer, come prepared with questions. You don’t want to set up a meeting and seem insincere in your intentions to get to know and learn from the other professional.
Below you will find a list of 25 questions for a networking coffee chat. Pull from this list and use it to generate more specific questions relevant to your coffee chat. Be authentic and enjoy getting to know another in your industry or professional field!
Coffee Chat Questions:
What inspired you to get into your line of work?
What projects are you working on currently that you’re excited about?
What’s a challenge you faced in your career? How did you overcome it?
How do you stay updated and relevant in your industry?
How do you stay updated and relevant in your professional field?
What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned in your career so far?
Are there any books, podcasts, or articles you’ve recently found insightful?
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
What’s an activity outside of work that you feel benefits your work?
What’s your favorite part about your job?
What’s one skill you think is crucial for success in your industry?
What’s one skill you think is crucial for success in your professional field?
Do you have any tips for maintaining healthy work/life balance?
Are there any trends or changes in your industry that you’re keeping an eye on?
Are there any trends or changes in your professional field that you’re keeping an eye on?
Have you had any memorable networking experiences or connections that have positively impacted your career?
What advice would you give to someone just starting out in your field?
How do you approach challenges or setbacks in your work?
What are your thoughts on the future of your industry?
When did you have to step outside of your comfort zone in your career? How did that shape your career?
What tips do you have for networking?
What office accessories aid your productivity?
Are there any mentors who have had a significant impact on your career?
What tips do you have for building team culture, whether or not you’re leading the team?
Would you recommend any conferences or networking events?
Set up your next coffee chat with a professional you’ve been wanting to learn from or get to know better! Find a location for the coffee chat that doesn’t distract from conversation but makes you and the other person feel comfortable. These types of conversations aren’t limited by geography, so set up virtual coffee chat sessions as well. Plus, if you work from home, this is a great tip for interacting with others and broadening your circle, whether in person or virtually.