Ineffective coffee chats/how to actually get a referral?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights and advice on making your coffee chats more effective and potentially securing referrals:

Making Coffee Chats Effective:

1. Build Relationships First:

   • The primary goal of coffee chats should be to make friends and build relationships. As Jeffrey Gitomer says, "No one likes to be pitched, but everyone wants to do business with their friends." Focus on getting to know the person and showing genuine interest in their work and experiences.

2. Stay in Touch:

   • Keep in constant contact with the people you meet. This shows that you are genuinely interested in their advice and mentorship. Regular follow-ups with smart questions or updates on your progress can help keep you on their radar.

3. Be Prepared:

   • Always be ready for any opportunity that might come up. Have your resume polished, your schedule open for interviews, and your professional attire ready. This readiness can make a significant difference when opportunities arise unexpectedly.

Asking for Referrals:

1. Indirect Approach:

   • Instead of directly asking for a referral in your first conversation, focus on building rapport and trust. Once you have established a relationship, you can subtly hint at your interest in opportunities within their firm.

2. Leverage Connections:

   • If you have been referred to someone by another contact, mention this in your communication. People are more likely to respond and help if they know you have a mutual connection.

3. Follow-Up Emails:

   • After your coffee chat, send a thank you note expressing your gratitude for their time and insights. In subsequent follow-ups, you can ask for advice on the recruitment process or inquire about any upcoming opportunities.

Additional Tips:

• Persistence with Tact:

  • Accept that not everyone will respond to your messages. For those who might, mix up your approach. Send messages on weekends or include pictures to make your emails stand out.

• Utilize LinkedIn:

  • Use LinkedIn to connect with professionals and ask for phone conversations regarding industry-related advice. This can help you build a network without directly asking for referrals initially.

By focusing on building genuine relationships and staying in touch, you can make your coffee chats more effective and increase your chances of securing referrals over time.

Sources: How One Student Did Coffee Chats Right - Received Offer From A BB, How One Student Did Coffee Chats Right - Received Offer From A BB, How to Navigate FT Recruiting: Learn from My Successes/Failures, Ideas for improving your coffee chat conversion rate, Want to get me on the phone? Here's how - a networking overview.