HOW TO CONVERT COFFEE CHATS TO OPPORTUNITIES

 You did it. You sent the message. They said yes. The coffee chat is on.

And then… You talked about the company. You hinted at the job. They said, “We’re not hiring right now.” And just like that, the conversation flatlined.

Sounds familiar?

Here’s the thing: informational meetings can change the trajectory of your job search. But most people don’t know how to turn them into anything more than a polite 20-minute chat.

Let’s fix that. 

Here are 4 must-ask questions that turn networking into opportunities:

1. “What advice would you have for someone with my experience searching in today’s market?”

Make it personal and time-bound. You’re not looking for textbook tips – you want their take, for someone with your profile, in this market.

2. “Which companies should I be targeting right now?”

This relieves the pressure they may feel to help you directly and often gives you gold. Senior people know what’s going on behind the scenes. You will leave with names you didn’t even know to research.

3. “Is there anyone else in your network I could speak with?”

Then pause. Smile. Let them think. Follow up gently – “Would you be open to me browsing your connections and suggesting a few names?” Every coffee chat then paves the way for new connections.

4. “Do you or your team plan to hire someone with my profile in the coming months?”

Keep it open-ended. “Coming months” keeps the door open for follow-up, even if there is nothing immediate. These questions don’t just get you answers.

They give you momentum – conversation threads you can build on over weeks and months. Let’s make every meeting, every conversation, every application count.

With you, 

Shub (Your Career Growth Partner)