Coffee Chat

💼 Business By CampusDown Wiki Editorial Team Last updated October 26, 2026

A coffee chat is an informal, non-hiring conversation in which a job seeker or career changer asks a professional about their role, workplace culture and career path to learn about a field.

Contents

1. Purpose
2. Request and follow-up
3. FAQ
4. References

Purpose

Like an informational interview, a coffee chat reveals day-to-day work and skills that a job description cannot. Granovetter's 'strength of weak ties' research suggests loose contacts often bring new information. Make clear you are not asking for a job.

Request and follow-up

Include a short intro, why you chose this person, a 20–30 minute time proposal and two or three questions. Ask about experiences, not salary, confidential matters or referrals. Send thanks within 24 hours.

FAQ

Who pays?: Usually the person who asked.
Can I ask for a referral?: Not at a first meeting.

Sources reviewed: 2026-10-26

References

고용노동부 청년고용정책 안내. https://www.moel.go.kr
Granovetter, M. S. (1973). The strength of weak ties. American Journal of Sociology, 78(6), 1360–1380.
Dalton, S. (2012). The 2-Hour Job Search. Ten Speed Press.

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This article was last updated on October 26, 2026. It is based on widely recognized original works and textbooks; when citing it in a paper, please check the original sources listed in the references.