What topics or questions do you typically bring up in a second or third coffee chat? I find that I’ve already covered most of my questions during the first meeting, so when I schedule a follow-up a few months later, I’m unsure about what to discuss. I feel like what I’ve been up to since our last chat isn’t enough to sustain an engaging conversation, and I worry that I might be rambling on about things that don’t resonate with them.
I’d appreciate any tips you might have! Thank you!
One response
It’s great that you’re thinking about how to keep your coffee chats engaging! Here are some ideas to help you navigate your second or third meeting:
Follow-Up on Previous Topics: Start by revisiting something from your last chat. Ask if they had any thoughts on what you discussed or how they implemented any advice or tips you shared.
Share Learnings: Talk about interesting things you’ve learned since your last meeting. This could be from a project you worked on, a new skill you’ve developed, or even a book or podcast that inspired you. It can spark discussion and offer insights they might find valuable.
Ask for Their Insights: Instead of just sharing your own experiences, ask for their perspective on topics relevant to both of your fields or areas of interest. Questions like “What trends are you noticing in your work?” or “Have you read any interesting articles lately?” can open up a more engaging dialogue.
Discuss Industry Changes: Talk about recent news or developments in your industry. This can give you both a chance to discuss how you see these changes affecting your work.
Seek Advice: Show that you value their input by asking for advice on challenges you’re facing or decisions you’re contemplating. People often enjoy sharing their expertise.
Look Ahead: Discuss your goals for the coming months and ask about theirs. This could lead to brainstorming ideas or potential collaboration opportunities.
Personal Touch: Don’t hesitate to share a bit of personal news or interests outside of work. This can help build rapport and make the conversation feel more relaxed and engaging.
Ask Open-Ended Questions: Encourage them to share more about their experiences, projects, or interests by asking open-ended questions. This can create a more dynamic and reciprocal conversation.
Remember, it’s a two-way street. Make sure to balance sharing your own experiences with encouraging them to share theirs. Good luck with your chats!